Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Li Auto has officially set its sights on the Philippines, marking its inaugural entry into the ASEAN market. The brand, known for its luxurious and technologically advanced SUVs and MPVs, recently provided a sneak peek of its flagship models, the L7 and L9 plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), to Filipino consumers. Official launches for these models are slated between April and May 2025, coinciding with the arrival of their futuristic Li MEGA MPV EV. Its flagship showroom at Uptown Bonifacio in BGC is expected to open this May, officially establishing the brand.
Operating under the banner of “Li Auto Philippines,” the brand will be managed by its official local dealer, HomeAuto Inc. Founded in 2015, Li Auto has quickly risen to prominence in China’s burgeoning new energy vehicle (NEV) sector, driven by its core mission to deliver safer, more comfortable, and convenient travel experiences for families. The company has been a pioneer in the commercialization of range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs) and has introduced innovative technologies such as “3D Spatial Interaction” in its vehicles. Demonstrating its rapid growth, Li Auto achieved a total delivery volume of 500,508 vehicles in 2024, marking a significant 33.1% increase compared to the previous year.
“We are thrilled to introduce Li Auto’s innovative smart electric vehicles to the Philippines,” stated Stone Yu, Chief Executive Officer of HomeAuto Inc. “The local market presents a significant opportunity for us with its increasing awareness of electric vehicles and interest in modern technology. Filipinos’ strong family values align perfectly with our vision, and we are confident that they will appreciate the unique blend of luxury and technology that Li Auto offers.”
Li Auto Philippines’ initial product lineup will feature the Li L7 and Li L9. The Li L7 is designed to redefine the five-seat family SUV segment, boasting a spacious interior that aims to create a “home-like experience” for all occupants. It also boasts an impressive China Light-duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC) range of 1,360 kilometers.
The Li L9, a six-seat, full-size flagship SUV, elevates the driving and entertainment experience with its innovative five-screen, three-dimensional interactive intelligent cockpit. Its self-developed range extension and chassis systems contribute to excellent drivability, offering a remarkable CLTC range of 1,412 kilometers.
Both the L7 and L9 are built on Li Auto’s advanced REEV platform, which utilizes dual energy sources where the range extender functions solely as a generator to charge the battery, rather than directly powering the wheels. This provides a balance between pure electric driving range and extended range capabilities, alleviating range anxiety for potential owners. Furthermore, all Li Auto models come equipped with exceptional audio-visual systems, advanced autonomous driving sensor technology, and superior handling capabilities.
Li Auto Philippines is also emphasizing its commitment to providing comprehensive after-sales services to ensure a seamless ownership experience for Filipino customers. This includes the establishment of fast-charging facilities, a robust inventory of spare parts for timely maintenance and repairs, comprehensive warranty programs, and a strong focus on overall customer satisfaction, aiming for a top-tier ownership journey.