CAERI(SH:601965) Hua Xia Shi Bao·2025-08-04 01:13Core Viewpoint - Li Auto emphasizes the importance of user safety and has conducted a collision safety test for the Li Auto i8 to validate and enhance its passive safety performance, using a third-party authority for transparency and credibility [1][2]. Group 1: Purpose of the Test - The test was conducted to ensure the safety and reliability of the innovative "short front suspension safety structure" of the Li Auto i8, which aims to provide spaciousness akin to MPVs while ensuring passive safety [1]. - The test was designed to simulate real-life collision scenarios, particularly the critical "small car vs. large truck" situation, which is a major concern for consumers [1]. Group 2: Test Performance - The collision test was executed by the China Automotive Engineering Research Institute, which is recognized for its professional capabilities and impartiality [2]. - The Li Auto i8 demonstrated strong safety features, with no significant deformation of the A, B, and C pillars, all nine airbags deployed correctly, and no leakage or fire from the battery pack during the test [2]. Group 3: Public Reaction and Industry Impact - The test aimed solely to validate the Li Auto i8's safety and was not intended to evaluate other brands, clarifying that the used Dongfeng Liuzhou Truck was merely a mobile barrier [3]. - Li Auto clarified that there is no direct competition with Dongfeng Liuzhou, which is a leading brand in the truck industry, and expressed respect for their longstanding reputation [3]. - The company aims to foster a fair industry environment and contribute to the high-quality development of the Chinese automotive sector [3]. Group 4: Safety Standards and Confidence - The Li Auto i8 was developed in accordance with the latest national safety standards and has undergone over 100 internal tests, achieving top ratings from various authoritative third-party evaluations [4]. - The company expresses confidence in the i8's safety and the overall progress of the automotive industry's safety development in China [4]. Group 5: Market Reaction - Following the release of the collision test video, Li Auto's stock experienced significant volatility, with a drop of 6.20% on the day of the i8's launch and a cumulative decline of 13.53% by August 1 [9]. - The market capitalization of Li Auto in Hong Kong fell by nearly 33 billion HKD in a single day, reflecting investor concerns [9]. Group 6: Response from Dongfeng Liuzhou - Dongfeng Liuzhou Truck has actively responded to the situation, emphasizing the importance of real-world safety and criticizing the portrayal of the collision test as misleading [12][14]. - The controversy has led to increased attention and engagement on Dongfeng Liuzhou's social media platforms, indicating a shift in public interest [12][14].