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News of Li Xiang's commercial praise for Lei Jun sparked intense online discussions...

I'm moved! This is how relationships among Chinese automakers should be! United, they stand strong. This is what friendly competition looks like—genuine camaraderie.

On February 27th, Xiaomi plans to unveil two flagship products: the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra and Xiaomi 15 Ultra. Meanwhile, Li Xiang intends to release Lixiang's first all-electric SUV, the i8.

Due to an unforeseen scheduling conflict between the two events, after consultation, Lixiang opted to reschedule and postpone the i8's launch.

This detour aims to foster the collective growth of China's electric vehicle industry.

Such business harmony and mutual support are the envy of many competitors.

Is this the fabled high-stakes business battle where titans meet at the pinnacle?

Traditionally, given Lixiang's weekly sales announcements and confrontational stance, it's unlikely he would easily 'shake hands and make peace' or 'bow and yield'...

Business competition isn't a zero-sum game where one must perish for the other to thrive. Success often stems from fierce rivalry, especially among peers.

So, why is Li Xiang behaving so amicably this time?

Some netizens speculate, 'They won't truly compete in the same sphere. It's just mutual commercial flattery.' Others suggest, 'Lixiang's traffic can't compete with Xiaomi's. If they held the event together, Xiaomi would likely dominate the spotlight.'

If netizens can see this clearly, as a business tycoon, Li Xiang certainly can't be oblivious.

This leads us to discuss Lixiang's track record in the industry.

Extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs)—a premium Chinese market segment ignited by Li Xiang.

Did the era bestow greatness upon Lixiang, or did Lixiang create a great era?

Considering Xiaomi's thriving business and XPeng's recovery, what would befall Lixiang if the i8 falters?

Trapped in the era of extended-range... Who wouldn't feel apprehensive?

Even Li Xiang believes that All in AI is the future.

Therefore, the Lixiang i8 launch event is one that cannot afford to fail, especially as it marks the debut of their first all-electric SUV. After all, SUVs are the cornerstone of Lixiang's success.

Will the Lixiang i8 truly meet Li Xiang's expectations?

Recall March 2024, when Li Xiang confidently proclaimed, 'MEGA will be Lixiang Auto's next blockbuster, and we're confident it will become the top-selling model above the 500,000 yuan price point.' However, things didn't unfold as planned. Due to issues with its appearance and pricing, the MEGA faced significant controversy post-launch, leading to sluggish sales.

With a front end that mimics the MEGA and other elements borrowed from the L-series i8, can it capture consumers' approval?

Upon closer inspection, the Lixiang i8 seamlessly integrates the design styles of the Lixiang L9 and Lixiang MEGA.

Using a high-EQ approach, as the first product of a new series, the Lixiang i8 strikes a perfect balance between the Lixiang L9's high-end elegance and the Lixiang MEGA's futuristic vibe.

Specifically, the Lixiang i8 adopts numerous design cues from the Lixiang MEGA, such as the 'bullet-head' shape and the headlight cluster positioned below the front windshield. However, the front grille design, hood lines, and rear design predominantly adopt the design language of the Lixiang L-series.

Perhaps due to its unremarkable appearance, one reason Lixiang postponed the event was a lack of confidence in competing with Xiaomi for audience attention.

In fact, Li Xiang's supercharging station layout also hampers the future growth of Lixiang's electric vehicles. In 2024, Li Xiang proposed a network of 2,000 Lixiang supercharging stations, with 138 stations yet to be completed.

Moreover, as the market becomes increasingly competitive, if customers criticize the energy replenishment system of the Lixiang i8, simply rescheduling the event won't alter its chances of becoming an instant hit post-launch.

Why should we yield? Shouldn't a younger company like Xiaomi be the one to accommodate?

We need to raise our standards...

You've built up so much anticipation. With the Lixiang i8 set to debut on February 27th, will Lei Jun attend the event or send a congratulatory video?