The Li L9 1.5T 52.3 kWh (449 Hp) Extended Range 4WD is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) SUV produced by the Chinese automaker Li Auto, beginning in March 2024. Positioned as a premium, family-oriented vehicle, the L9 represents Li Auto’s commitment to extended-range electric vehicles, offering a substantial all-electric range combined with the flexibility of a gasoline engine for extended journeys. It is a six-seat SUV designed to compete with other large, luxury PHEV options in the rapidly expanding Chinese automotive market. The L9 is built on a dedicated EV platform and utilizes a unique powertrain architecture where the internal combustion engine solely functions as a generator for the electric motors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Li |
| Model | L9 |
| Generation | L9 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T 52.3 kWh (449 Hp) Extended Range 4WD |
| Start of production | March, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (WLTC) | 0.71-7.6 l/100 km (331.3 – 30.9 US mpg, 397.9 – 37.2 UK mpg, 140.8 – 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.18 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.18 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI B |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 174.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 241.2 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 52.3 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides (Li-NMC) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTC) | 235 km (146.02 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTC) | 23.3 kWh/100 km (37.5 kWh/100 mi, 90 MPGe, 4.3 km/kWh, 2.7 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor 1 power | 272 Hp |
| Electric motor 1 Torque | 400 Nm (295.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 1 model/code | TZ220XS066 |
| Electric motor 1 location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 1 type | Synchronous |
| Electric motor 2 power | 177 Hp |
| Electric motor 2 Torque | 220 Nm (162.26 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 2 model/code | TZ180XS008 |
| Electric motor 2 location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 2 type | Synchronous |
| System power | 449 Hp |
| System torque | 620 Nm (457.29 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 154 Hp |
| Power per litre | 102.9 Hp/l |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | L2E15M |
| Engine displacement | 1496 cm3 (91.29 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 2570 kg (5665.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3170 kg (6988.65 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 332 l (11.72 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1191 l (42.06 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal, 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 5218 mm (205.43 in.) |
| Width | 1998 mm (78.66 in.) |
| Height | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3105 mm (122.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1741 mm (68.54 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Approach angle | 19° |
| Departure angle | 21° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the generator only, with no mechanical connection to the drive. Two electric motors drive the front and rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/45 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Li L9 utilizes a unique powertrain configuration. It features a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (code L2E15M) that operates solely as a range extender, meaning it does not directly drive the wheels. Instead, it powers a generator to produce electricity, which then charges the 52.3 kWh battery pack and powers the two electric motors. The front electric motor (TZ180XS008) delivers 177 Hp and 220 Nm of torque, while the rear motor (TZ220XS066) produces 272 Hp and 400 Nm of torque. Combined, the system delivers a total output of 449 Hp and 620 Nm of torque. Both electric motors are synchronous units. The engine itself employs direct injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. This setup allows for efficient operation at a constant speed, maximizing energy generation for the electric motors.
Driving Characteristics
The L9’s driving experience is heavily biased towards electric operation. In typical driving scenarios, the vehicle operates solely on electric power, providing near-silent acceleration and a smooth ride. The single-speed automatic transmission delivers seamless power delivery from the electric motors. The combined output of the electric motors provides brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.9 seconds. When the battery is depleted or requires additional power, the gasoline engine seamlessly kicks in to generate electricity, maintaining driveability. The all-wheel-drive system, provided by the dual-motor setup, offers excellent traction and stability in various road conditions. The air suspension contributes to a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Li L9 is well-equipped with standard features focused on comfort, convenience, and technology. Standard amenities include premium leather upholstery, a large touchscreen infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and a panoramic sunroof. The L9 boasts a spacious interior with seating for six passengers. Optional extras include upgraded sound systems, rear-seat entertainment systems, and advanced autonomous driving features. The interior design emphasizes a minimalist aesthetic with high-quality materials and a focus on user-friendliness.
Chassis & Braking
The L9 features a robust chassis designed to accommodate the weight of the battery pack and powertrain components. The suspension system consists of a double wishbone setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, both incorporating air suspension and a transverse stabilizer bar for enhanced stability and ride comfort. The braking system utilizes ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) for improved stopping power and control. The steering system is a rack and pinion type with electric power steering for precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Li L9 has been well-received in the Chinese market, particularly among families seeking a spacious, comfortable, and technologically advanced PHEV SUV. Critics have praised its long electric range, smooth driving experience, and luxurious interior. Compared to other PHEV SUVs in its class, the L9 offers a competitive electric range and a unique powertrain architecture. Its fuel economy, ranging from 0.71-7.6 l/100 km, is also commendable. However, some critics have noted the relatively high price point compared to some competitors.
Legacy
The Li L9 represents a significant step forward in the development of extended-range electric vehicles. Its innovative powertrain architecture and focus on passenger comfort and technology have set a new standard in the Chinese automotive market. The long-term reliability of the powertrain remains to be seen, but Li Auto has demonstrated a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, the L9 is poised to become a popular choice for consumers seeking a versatile and environmentally friendly SUV.
