Li Auto inaugurates German R&D center

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On January 17, 2025, Li Auto officially inaugurated its German R&D Center in Munich. As the company's first overseas R&D hub, the center represents a significant milestone in Li Auto's global R&D strategy implementation.

Prior to this, Li Auto established R&D centers in Beijing and Shanghai, focusing on core technology development and innovation. The new German center will leverage the advantages of international talent and technology exchange, fostering a diverse and innovative culture while expanding the company's global vision and bringing its technologies to the world stage.

Photo credit: Li Auto

The German R&D Center will collaborate with the Chinese R&D team to drive next-generation technology advancements in four key areas: advanced design, power semiconductors, intelligent chassis systems, and electric powertrains.

In design, Li Auto has built a "two countries, three locations" global design innovation framework to attract and cultivate top automotive design talent. The German center will work closely with the company's Chinese teams, adhering to its forward-thinking design language to create groundbreaking vehicle designs.

The power semiconductor, a core technology for electric vehicles, is another focus. Li Auto has already developed its first-generation SiC (silicon carbide) power modules in China, which offer higher energy conversion efficiency and reduced size compared to mainstream alternatives. By integrating multiple components into the electric motor controller, these modules improve vehicle space utilization, enable lightweight designs, and reduce energy consumption. The China-Germany R&D teams will jointly focus on developing the next generation of power semiconductor technologies.

The intelligent chassis-by-wire system is central to integrating artificial intelligence into vehicles. Li Auto's German team will support the China-located headquarters in advancing key chassis technologies, including brake-by-wire, steer-by-wire, and fully active suspension systems, as part of its next-generation research initiatives.

Strategically, the German center will also assist Li Auto in gaining insights into the European market, establishing compliance with European automotive regulations, and adapting its products to local user preferences.