Core Insights - The rapid adjustment of Li Auto's i8 model strategy within just 7 days demonstrates the company's agility and responsiveness to user feedback, reflecting its "new force" characteristics despite being a decade-old automaker [1][4][6] Product Strategy Adjustment - On July 29, the Li Auto i8 was launched with three configurations: Pro, Max, and Ultra. However, 98% of pre-orders were for the Max/Ultra versions, leading to a strategic shift [2] - By August 5, just a week after the launch, Li Auto eliminated the multi-version strategy, standardizing configurations based on the original Max version, reducing the price from 349,800 to 339,800 yuan, and including a free premium sound system [2][3] - The company also made the refrigerator a standard feature across all models and maintained full smart driving capabilities, effectively implementing a "top configuration is standard configuration" approach [2][3] User-Centric Approach - Li Auto's founder, Li Xiang, emphasized the importance of listening to user feedback, which led to the swift decision-making process and customer service adjustments for those affected by the changes [3][4] - Customers who had ordered the Ultra version at a higher price were offered a refund or upgrade option, showcasing the company's commitment to customer satisfaction [3] Organizational Agility - Li Auto's ability to quickly adapt its SKU strategy highlights its organizational structure, which has evolved from a guerrilla-style organization to a matrix structure, allowing for flexibility and efficiency [5] - The company maintains a direct line from user data to decision-making, enabling rapid responses to market demands [5] Technological Innovations - The i8 features advanced technology, including a dual-chamber suspension system and a single-valve CDC solution, aimed at enhancing user comfort [7][10] - The vehicle is equipped with an 800V silicon carbide platform and self-developed 5C fast charging technology, allowing for a 500 km range in just 10 minutes of charging, which is a 67% improvement over mainstream 3C technology [8][10] Market Positioning - The i8 is positioned in a lucrative segment of the electric SUV market, with significant growth potential, particularly in the 300,000 to 400,000 yuan price range, where competition is limited [11][12] - Li Auto's strong market presence, with a sales volume of 65,900 units and a market share of 16.79% in the SUV category, provides a solid foundation for the i8's success [11][12] Strategic Vision - The adjustment in the i8's product strategy reflects a return to the successful principles established with the Li ONE, focusing on simplifying user choices and enhancing product strength rather than competing on price [12]