During a recent visit to Beijing, ecosundiaries.com, working alongside Li Auto, had the opportunity to test out the automaker’s inaugural electric vehicle model.
It seems like the
electric vehicle
The landscape is evolving quicker than we can stay abreast of, and that
in recent years China
has presented a strong argument for leading the race. Among the key competitors such as BYD, Geely, and others, one particularly noteworthy participant is Li Auto with its latest offering, the Mega—an all-electric MPV that transforms the typically functional minivan into a much more attractive option.
The Mega represents a significant shift not just for Li Auto but for the entire electric vehicle market with its bold styling, feature-rich interior, and impressive performance capabilities.
Ecosundials.com has created this article and the related video in collaboration with Li Auto.
A Design from Tomorrow
Let’s address the aesthetics first since looking at the Mega just once makes it clear that its ‘minimalist’ design is actually quite intricate.
It reminds us of a high-speed train, and with good reason—the Mega is all about aerodynamic efficiency. In fact, Li Auto claims to have spent more than 1,000 hours refining the Mega’s aerodynamic profile in wind tunnels. The result? A drag coefficient of just 0.215, which makes it one of the most aerodynamic MPVs in existence, even beating out many EV sedans and SUVs—most notably the
2025 Tesla Model 3
(0.219) and
2025 Porsche Taycan
(0.22).
Upfront, the car boasts expansive smooth panels, an enormous curved windscreen, narrow seams between body parts, and seamlessly incorporated lighting features that work together to minimize air resistance and highlight its advanced aesthetic appeal. A continuous LED strip runs across both the front and back of the vehicle (a hallmark Li Auto ‘Halo’ illumination pattern), complemented by discreetly placed under-the-surface door handles and inconspicuous sliding track lines along the sides, ensuring a fluid and unbroken exterior look. If you browse through online forums discussing this model, you’ll notice opinions vary widely—some find it divisive yet unmistakably eye-catching.
Performance with Purpose
The Mega is constructed using an entirely new electric platform, marking Li Auto’s debut into fully electric vehicles following their previous five plug-in hybrids. This model boasts an innovative 800-volt electrical framework—setting a precedent within China’s minivan sector—for enhanced charging speeds as well as superior energy management and performance capabilities. Equipped with a twin-engine all-wheel drive system delivering 536 horsepower (400 kilowatts) and 542 pound-feet of torque, the nearly three-ton vehicle accelerates from zero to sixty-two miles per hour in merely 5.5 seconds. Although overused, it merits restating: these figures place it squarely in sports car territory despite being capable of comfortably seating seven adult passengers in lavish ease and opulence.
Even though it’s large, the Mega handles gracefully due to its adaptive ‘Magic Carpet Ride’ air suspension system featuring constant damping adjustment and cameras scanning the road ahead for obstacles. This configuration aids in reducing body lean during turns and ensures a perfectly still ride even when encountering uneven terrain. Speaking of tranquility, the vehicle is equipped with double-glazed windows throughout and incorporates additional acoustic insulation surpassing that found in the latest Maybach model; after all, Li Auto pays meticulous attention to achieving ultimate silence.
With its efforts in power and handling, Li Auto has made it clear this is not just a
minivan
—It’s a declaration—a continually evolving technology demo.
Cutting-Edge Battery Tech
A key highlight of the Mega is its advanced battery tech. It comes fitted with a 102.7 kWh CATL Qilin battery pack, which offers an estimated range of 710 kilometers (or about 441 miles) based on China’s CLTC standards. What truly sets it apart though is its rapid-charging capability. Utilizing an 800-volt system, the car supports up to 500 kW of charging capacity, enabling it to go from empty to fully charged at 80% in merely 12 minutes when plugged into a compatible 5C charger. During our journey to Beijing as shown in the accompanying clip, we got to experience this remarkable feature first-hand, and it was indeed astonishing.
Interior: Tech-Laden and Lounge-Like
Step inside the Mega and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels more business-class than car interior. There are three rows of seating, with the second row offering two individual captain’s chairs complete with heating, ventilation, and massage functions which don’t just cover the seat cushion and backrest, but the arm and leg rests too. A panoramic roof, ambient lighting, and high-grade materials—including microsuede, real wood, and vegan leather—help elevate the experience further.
Upfront, two(!) large 15.7-inch screens operate with Li Auto’s tailored user interface driven by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 processors. The steering wheel has been modified to include a compact touchscreen for driver information, whereas backseat occupants enjoy an overhead 17-inch monitor solely dedicated to their amusement. Additionally, customers can opt for a 21-speaker Dolby Atmos sound setup ensuring top-notch auditory enjoyment—a cinematic journey even when traveling!
One of the standout features of the Mega is undoubtedly its advanced autonomous technology. This vehicle includes Li Auto’s AD Max 3.0 system, powered by Nvidia Orin-X processors along with lidar sensors and twelve high-definition cameras to achieve an L2+ automation level—a capability encompassing adaptive cruise control paired with lane-change assistance, as well as traffic-jam support and smart parking functions. As a leader in self-driving innovation within China, Li Auto continues to push boundaries through over-the-air software upgrades. We anticipate seeing greater reliance placed on this system by drivers in the near future as they progressively hand over more operational control to the Mega.
The Verdict
The Li Auto Mega doesn’t just stand out in the Chinese market; it has what it takes to become a formidable player globally in the electric vehicle sector. Although Western countries have not witnessed a comprehensive rollout of Li Auto products as of yet, models such as the Mega demonstrate that Chinese automotive companies can innovate well past Western anticipations. This car boasts speed, efficiency, striking audacity, and exquisite craftsmanship. Most impressively, it retails in China at around $75,000, offering incredible value for the price tag.
If you believe that MPVs are merely mundane vehicles for transporting families, then the Mega offers an enticing alternative worth exploring. It doesn’t function like a typical minivan; instead, it stands out as what could be termed a “Megavan” — a bold emblem and a significant showcase model for Li Auto, signifying that China may well lead the way in shaping the future of transportation.
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