# Li Auto i9 electric SUV launch

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/li-auto-i9-electric-suv-launch
> Updated: 2026-09-19T09:21:21.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

Li Auto CEO Li Xiang initially addressed the automotive industry’s trend toward larger flagship SUVs, describing the current “size arms race” as a transitional phase rooted in legacy internal combustion engine thinking. He argued that electric architectures allow for optimized cabin space and better maneuverability without requiring larger external footprints.

Following these remarks, Li Auto officially launched the i9 electric SUV, priced at 369,800 yuan. The new model features advanced chassis technology, including rear-wheel steering and dual-chamber air suspension, alongside upgraded intelligent cockpit hardware. The launch is positioned as a strategic move to compete with NIO’s ES8 in the premium electric SUV market.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-19: Li Auto launches i9 electric SUV to compete with NIO

Li Auto launched the i9 electric SUV at 369,800 yuan, featuring advanced chassis and cockpit tech to compete directly with NIO's ES8 in the premium family SUV market.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/li-auto-launches-i9-electric-suv-to-compete-with-nio

### 2026-09-14: Li Auto CEO Li Xiang predicts end of SUV size race

Li Auto CEO Li Xiang claims the SUV size race will end as pure electric architectures allow for more cabin space without increasing vehicle dimensions, ahead of the Li i9 launch.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/li-auto-ceo-li-xiang-predicts-end-of-suv-size-race

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Cite as: Li Auto i9 electric SUV launch. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/li-auto-i9-electric-suv-launch