Shanghai (ZXZC)- Chinese NEV startup Li Auto has submitted the patent images of the Li ONE's new variant to China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). The new version is expected to be cheaper than the existing model for sales due to the lower battery energy capacity.

Li ONE's new version; photo credit: MIIT

According to the MIIT's information, the yet-to-be-launched version carries a ternary-lithium battery pack with an energy capacity of 38.5kWh, which is capable of 130km under WLTC (Worldwide Harmonized Light-duty Test Cycle) on battery power alone. For comparison, the 2021 Li ONE features an EV-only range of 155km thanks to a 40.5kWh battery pack.

As Li Auto's sole production model for sale, the Li ONE hit the market in April 2019 and welcomed its all-new version, namely, the 2021 Li ONE, in May 2021.

2021 Li ONE; photo credit: Li Auto

In November, the company delivered 13,485 Li ONEs, representing a 190.2% year-over-year surge. Total deliveries for the first eleven months reached 76,404, resulting in a cumulative volume of 110,001.

Li Auto plans to launch its second mass-produced model in the second quarter of 2022, the startup revealed at the latest quarterly earnings call. The new model will be a full-sized range-extended electric SUV, which is expected for delivery in next year's third quarter.