LI AUTO(US:LI) 36氪·2025-05-21 11:18Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent departure of Xia Zhongpu, the head of the end-to-end model for assisted driving at Li Auto, and the implications of this change on the company's strategic direction towards the VLA (Vision-Language-Action) model for autonomous driving technology [3][7][14]. Summary by Sections Departure of Xia Zhongpu - Xia Zhongpu, who joined Li Auto in 2023 and was responsible for the planning and control model of the assisted driving system, is set to leave the company. His departure may be linked to a shift in Li Auto's technology strategy [5][7]. - Xia's rapid promotion from P9 to 21st level within two years is noted as unusual within the company [6]. Shift in Technology Strategy - Li Auto has transitioned its assisted driving technology from a reliance on high-precision maps and rule-based systems to an end-to-end model, and now to the VLA model [9][10]. - The VLA model, which Li Auto is now fully committed to, is seen as a more advanced approach that incorporates action capabilities, allowing for interaction with the physical world [12][14]. VLA Model Advantages - The VLA model is positioned as superior to the previous end-to-end model, as it combines 3D and 2D visual understanding with the ability to execute actions, aligning more closely with human operational methods [12]. - This model is part of a broader industry trend towards enhancing the world knowledge and reasoning capabilities of assisted driving systems, as seen in recent developments from competitors like NIO and XPeng [12]. Internal Changes and Future Outlook - The leadership within Li Auto's assisted driving team has also seen changes, with the head of the team, Lang Xianpeng, being promoted to a higher level, indicating a strengthening of resources towards the VLA model [9]. - Despite the enthusiasm for the VLA model, industry insiders caution that it is still in its early stages and has not undergone extensive practical application [13].