The Li L8 1.5T 42.8 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 offering within the Li Auto lineup, the L8 represents a significant step in the company’s commitment to extended-range electric vehicles, catering to the growing demand for environmentally conscious yet practical family transportation in the Chinese market. The L8 is built on a dedicated EV platform and features a unique powertrain configuration prioritizing electric driving with a gasoline engine acting solely as a range extender. It’s a six-seat SUV designed to compete with other extended-range EVs and traditional gasoline-powered SUVs in the mid-size segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Li |
| Model | L8 |
| Generation | L8 |
| Type | 1.5T 42.8 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 (combined WLTC) | 0.81-7.5 l/100 km (290.4 – 31.4 US mpg, 348.7 – 37.7 UK mpg, 123.5 – 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI B |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.5 kg/Hp, 180.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 249 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 42.8 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides (Li-NMC) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTC) | 190 km (118.06 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTC) | 22.9 kWh/100 km (36.85 kWh/100 mi, 91 MPGe, 4.4 km/kWh, 2.7 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power (Rear) | 272 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (Rear) | 400 Nm (295.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code (Rear) | TZ220XS066 |
| Electric motor location (Rear) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (Rear) | Synchronous |
| Electric motor power (Front) | 177 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (Front) | 220 Nm (162.26 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code (Front) | TZ180XS008 |
| Electric motor location (Front) | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (Front) | Synchronous |
| System power | 449 Hp |
| System torque | 620 Nm (457.29 lb.-ft.) |
| Internal combustion engine 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 | 2490 kg (5489.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3130 kg (6900.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 313 l (11.05 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1098 l (38.78 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal, 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 5080 mm (200 in.) |
| Width | 1995 mm (78.54 in.) |
| Height | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3005 mm (118.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1741 mm (68.54 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.297 |
| Approach angle | 19° |
| Departure angle | 21° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives generator only, two electric motors drive 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 | 255/50 R20; 265/45 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 20; 21 |
INTRODUCTION
The Li L8 1.5T 42.8 kWh (449 Hp) Extended Range 4WD, launched in March 2024, is a significant model for Li Auto, representing their continued focus on extended-range electric vehicles. It’s built upon a dedicated EV platform, allowing for optimized packaging and integration of the powertrain components. The L8 is a six-seat SUV, designed to appeal to families seeking a spacious and technologically advanced vehicle. The “Extended Range” designation indicates the presence of a gasoline engine that acts as a generator to recharge the battery, extending the vehicle’s overall driving range beyond what is achievable on electric power alone. This addresses range anxiety, a common concern among potential EV buyers. The L8 sits towards the higher end of Li Auto’s lineup, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and practicality.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Li L8 utilizes a unique powertrain architecture. Unlike traditional hybrids, the 1.5-liter turbocharged L2E15M inline-four engine (producing 154 Hp and 102.9 Hp/l) does *not* directly drive the wheels. Instead, it functions solely as a generator, powering an electric motor to recharge the 42.8 kWh Li-NMC battery pack. This configuration allows for a consistently smooth and efficient driving experience, as the electric motors handle all propulsion. The vehicle employs a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, with a 272 Hp synchronous motor powering the rear wheels and a 177 Hp synchronous motor driving the front wheels, resulting in a combined system output of 449 Hp and 620 Nm (457.29 lb.-ft.) of torque. Both motors are transverse-mounted. The single-speed automatic transmission is optimized for efficiency and responsiveness. The fuel injection system is direct injection, enhancing combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain for precise valve control.
Driving Characteristics
The Li L8 1.5T 42.8 kWh (449 Hp) Extended Range 4WD delivers a refined and responsive driving experience. The instant torque from the electric motors provides brisk acceleration, achieving 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system ensures confident handling and traction in various road conditions. The single-speed transmission provides seamless acceleration, and the lack of traditional gear changes contributes to a smooth and quiet ride. Compared to potential lower-powered variants (if offered), the 449 Hp system offers significantly more performance. While a pure electric vehicle might offer slightly more immediate responsiveness, the L8’s extended range and the convenience of the range-extending engine provide a practical advantage for longer journeys. The air suspension contributes to a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Li L8 1.5T 42.8 kWh (449 Hp) Extended Range 4WD is well-equipped with standard features focused on comfort, convenience, and technology. Interior upholstery typically consists of high-quality leather or synthetic leather, with a focus on premium materials. The dashboard features a large touchscreen infotainment system, providing access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. Standard features include a panoramic sunroof, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, and a premium sound system. Optional extras may include upgraded interior trim, a head-up display, and enhanced ADAS features. The six-seat configuration provides ample space for passengers and cargo.
Chassis & Braking
The Li L8 features a robust chassis designed to support its weight and provide a stable driving platform. The front suspension utilizes a double wishbone configuration with a transverse stabilizer bar and air suspension, while the rear suspension employs an independent multi-link setup, also with air suspension and a transverse stabilizer bar. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride and precise handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The electric steering system offers precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Li L8 has been well-received in the Chinese market, appealing to consumers seeking a spacious, technologically advanced, and environmentally friendly SUV. Critics have praised its comfortable ride, strong performance, and extended range. Compared to other PHEV SUVs in the same segment, the L8 stands out with its unique range-extender powertrain and luxurious interior. Its fuel economy, ranging from 0.81-7.5 l/100 km, is competitive with other PHEVs, and its all-electric range of 190 km (118.06 mi) is sufficient for many daily commutes. Reliability reports are still emerging, but Li Auto has demonstrated a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Legacy
The Li L8 1.5T 42.8 kWh (449 Hp) Extended Range 4WD represents a significant step forward in Li Auto’s development as a leading EV manufacturer. Its innovative powertrain architecture and focus on extended range address key concerns for potential EV buyers. The long-term reliability of the powertrain remains to be seen, but the use of proven technologies and Li Auto’s commitment to quality suggest a positive outlook. As the used car market matures, the L8 is expected to hold its value well, appealing to buyers seeking a technologically advanced and environmentally friendly SUV.
