Li Auto Executive Reverses Stance: 800V 5C Ultra-Fast Charging Key to Enhancing Range-Extended EV Experience

Tang Jing, head of Li Auto's product line, recently admitted a significant shift in his stance on 800V 5C ultra-fast charging technology. Initially opposed to equipping the new-generation L9 with this feature due to its high cost and added weight, he changed his mind after personally experiencing the 5C ultra-fast charging (with peak power reaching 500 kW) on the Li Auto MEGA in May 2024. He now believes that 100 kW fast charging is no longer sufficient. Tang emphasized that range-extended electric vehicles with large batteries should closely match pure electric vehicles in terms of charging speed, acceleration, NVH performance, and driving dynamics. As such, 800V 5C ultra-fast charging has become a critical feature for enhancing user "happiness." Although range-extended vehicles face packaging constraints in the front compartment—sacrificing some space—Tang stressed that the charging experience must not be compromised and should meet the standards set by pure electric vehicles.