Li Auto i8 Long-Range RWD Officially Launched: 780 km Range from RMB 309,800

Li Auto has officially launched a new rear-wheel-drive long-range version of the Li i8. The new model went on sale on August 7, with a nationwide official price of RMB 309,800.

Compared with the existing RMB 339,800 AWD version, the new RWD model is RMB 30,000 cheaper. It replaces the dual-motor all-wheel-drive system with a single rear motor while increasing the CLTC driving range from 720 km to 780 km.

The new version focuses on long-distance efficiency and practicality rather than outright acceleration, offering a more affordable entry point into the Li i8 range.

780 km Range with the Same 97.8 kWh Battery

One of the most notable aspects of the new Li i8 RWD is that Li Auto has not reduced the battery capacity to achieve the lower price.

The vehicle continues to use a 97.8 kWh ternary lithium 5C fast-charging battery.

By removing the front electric motor, the vehicle reduces both weight and energy consumption. Official figures indicate an energy consumption of approximately 13.6 kWh/100 km, enabling the vehicle to achieve a 780 km CLTC range.

The rear electric motor produces a maximum power of 250 kW, while the vehicle's top speed reaches 200 km/h.

Performance is slightly lower than the AWD model. The RWD version accelerates from 0–100 km/h in approximately 6.6 seconds, compared with 4.5 seconds for the AWD version.

For customers who prioritize range and daily practicality over acceleration, this configuration may offer a more balanced package.

5C Super-Fast Charging

The Li i8 RWD retains the 5C super-fast charging system.

According to Li Auto, the vehicle can add approximately 500 km of CLTC range in 10 minutes under suitable charging conditions.

Li Auto's supercharging network has also continued to expand, with more than 4,100 supercharging stations currently available, covering both urban areas and highway service areas.

The combination of a 780 km range and 5C fast charging is particularly valuable for long-distance travel. Drivers can potentially reduce the number of charging stops or combine multiple short charging sessions into a single longer stop.

Large Six-Seat SUV with a 3,050 mm Wheelbase

The RWD version retains the same overall dimensions as the existing Li i8:

• Length: 5,085 mm

• Width: 1,960 mm

• Height: 1,740 mm

• Wheelbase: 3,050 mm

• Seating: 2+2+2 six-seat layout

• Drag coefficient: 0.218 Cd

The exterior design has not been significantly changed.

The new model features a semi-hidden door handle design, front grille chrome trim, and welcome lighting on the exterior mirrors. These are mainly detail-level updates rather than a complete redesign.

Electric Front Trunk Adds More Practicality

One of the useful upgrades is the addition of an electric front trunk.

The front trunk can be electrically opened and closed and includes:

• Interior lighting

• Drainage outlet

• Waterproof protection

• Dust-resistant design

The available space can accommodate items such as a 20-inch suitcase, camping tables and chairs, wet umbrellas, or outdoor equipment.

For a large six-seat electric SUV, the front trunk provides additional storage space without taking up passenger or rear cargo space.

Premium Air Suspension Remains Standard

Despite the lower price and switch to rear-wheel drive, the Li i8 RWD does not significantly downgrade its chassis hardware.

The vehicle continues to feature a dual-chamber Magic Carpet air suspension system with four height adjustment levels.

The maximum ground clearance reaches 196 mm, while the minimum ride height can be reduced to approximately 131 mm.

The suspension uses:

• Front double-wishbone suspension

• Rear five-link suspension

• Aluminum suspension arms

• Four high-performance hydraulic bushings

The body also achieves a torsional rigidity of approximately 49,500 N·m/deg.

This hardware package gives the Li i8 RWD a strong foundation for both urban driving and long-distance travel.

Zero-Gravity Seats and Passenger Comfort

The front zero-gravity seats are currently available as a limited-time free upgrade for both the driver and front passenger.

The seats feature:

• Wraparound side bolsters

• Thickened seat cushions

• Extended leg rests

• Adjustable soft head/leg support

• 16-point massage function

The second-row right seat continues to feature a zero-gravity configuration. It offers a maximum recline angle of approximately 145°, while the leg rest can reach approximately 78°.

Physical buttons have also been added to the armrest, allowing passengers to control functions such as ventilation, heating, and massage without relying entirely on the central touchscreen.

More Attention to Cabin Comfort

The front sun visors now feature two larger illuminated vanity mirrors, with adjustable brightness and color temperature.

Li Auto has also stated that the cabin's quietness has been developed with the goal of approaching the comfort level of the Li MEGA.

The actual difference will ultimately need to be evaluated through real-world testing. However, removing the front motor in the RWD version may also reduce one potential source of front-end mechanical noise.

Safety and Cabin Health

Safety remains an important part of the Li i8 package.

According to the information provided by Li Auto, the new vehicle achieved G/G+/G+/G results under the C-IASI 2023 evaluation system.

The doors retain both electronic release and mechanical opening mechanisms, providing an additional method of opening the doors in situations where electronic systems may not be available.

The cabin has also received a five-star C-AHI 2025 Healthy Vehicle certification, covering areas including interior volatile organic compounds, particulate matter, and electromagnetic protection.

Exterior Colors and Optional Equipment

The Li i8 RWD is available with several exterior color options, including:

• Black Metallic

• Silver Metallic

• White Pearl

• Little Elephant Grey Special Edition

Interior colors include white and grey-brown combinations.

The standard wheel option is a 20-inch low-drag wheel.

Optional equipment includes:

• 21-inch seven-spoke sport wheels: RMB 10,000

• Little Elephant Grey special cold-light paint: RMB 8,000

• 21.4-inch rear entertainment screen + streaming rear-view mirror + Snapdragon 8295P cockpit chip: RMB 10,000

Li Auto i8 Price

The new rear-wheel-drive long-range version is priced at:

Li i8 RWD Long Range: RMB 309,800

Li i8 AWD: RMB 339,800

The RWD version is therefore RMB 30,000 cheaper than the AWD model while offering an additional 60 km of CLTC range.

From August 6 to August 31, customers who place an order can also receive limited-time benefits with a maximum stated value of RMB 35,750.

Financial programs include a down payment starting from RMB 99,800, with options including three-year interest-free financing or five-year low-interest financing.

The front-row zero-gravity seats, normally valued at RMB 20,000, are also available as a limited-time free upgrade.

Existing Li Auto owners who purchase another Li vehicle may also qualify for additional cash benefits, depending on their specific eligibility.

Is the Li i8 RWD Worth Considering?

The new Li i8 RWD is not simply a cheaper version of the existing AWD model.

Instead, Li Auto has changed the product positioning by replacing the dual-motor system with a single rear motor while keeping the 97.8 kWh battery, 5C fast charging, premium air suspension, six-seat layout, and high-level cabin equipment.

For buyers who prioritize long driving range, charging convenience, passenger comfort, and daily practicality, the RMB 309,800 RWD version may offer a more attractive value proposition than the AWD model.

The AWD version remains the better choice for customers who prioritize acceleration and all-weather traction.

Overall, the new Li i8 RWD demonstrates a clear strategy: reduce performance that many family users may not need, while retaining the comfort, range, charging capability, and premium features that are more relevant to everyday use.

With a 780 km CLTC range, 5C fast charging, six-seat configuration, premium air suspension, and a starting price of RMB 309,800, the new Li i8 RWD is positioned as a strong long-range family electric SUV in China's premium EV market.