Li Auto, Shell forge strategic partnership to drive global expansion, innovation in energy solutions

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On June 12, 2025, global energy and petrochemical giant Shell and Chinese new energy vehicle manufacturer Li Auto signed a strategic cooperation agreement at Li Auto's R&D headquarters in Beijing, according to a post on Shell's WeChat account.

The agreement marks the beginning of an in-depth, full-chain partnership encompassing lubricant supply and services, joint technology development, brand collaboration, and global market expansion.

Photo credit: Li Auto

The two parties will collaborate strategically in the following key areas:

(1) Tailored lubricant solutions and joint development

Shell will become Li Auto's designated strategic partner for lubricants. The companies will jointly develop high-performance lubricants for Li Auto's range-extended electric vehicle (REEV) systems and establish mechanisms to ensure R&D and supply coordination in key areas such as thermal management of electric powertrains and integration with charging networks.

(2) Co-innovation in advanced technologies

Shell will dedicate core resources to support the development of long-life, high-performance lubricants for Li Auto's range extenders and co-create the industry's first intelligent engine oil maintenance system.

The two sides will establish a joint innovation technology center to explore cutting-edge applications in AI, range extender lubrication systems, immersion cooling, and e-drive fluid solutions. They also plan to jointly formulate enterprise-grade REEV technical standards.

(3) Joint brand development

The collaboration includes co-branded aftersales packaging and customized gifts for Li Auto's customers. Annual themed campaigns will be launched to strengthen user engagement and brand experience. Additionally, Shell's technical team will help upskill frontline service technicians to improve service capabilities and customer loyalty.

(4) Global synergy to support Li Auto's international expansion

Leveraging Shell's global network of over 44,000 retail and mobility service stations, the two companies will work together to establish energy replenishment networks for Li Auto in overseas markets.

The partnership will also explore cross-sector collaboration in areas beyond lubricants, including EV charging infrastructure, digital technologies, and customer experience. Furthermore, the companies aim to deepen cooperation in carbon reduction and corporate social responsibility.

(5) Resilient and responsive supply chain

Shell will prioritize product supply to Li Auto in critical situations such as production capacity shifts or raw material shortages, ensuring stable supply. The partnership will also enable rapid response to short-term fluctuations in supply and demand, boosting overall supply chain coordination and efficiency.

Li Auto stated that this strategic partnership reflects strong mutual recognition of each company's technical expertise and shared development vision. With a commitment to openness and mutual success, the two companies aim to jointly pioneer a more efficient, intelligent, and sustainable mobility future amid the global shift toward new energy.