Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the different design philosophies between electric vehicles (EVs) and traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, emphasizing that there is no absolute right or wrong in these choices, but they lead to different commercial outcomes in the short, medium, and long term [1]. Group 1: Design Philosophy - The design of Xiaomi's SU7 and YU7 has received positive feedback for its aesthetics, which closely resemble those of traditional ICE vehicles [2]. - Xiaomi prioritizes aesthetics in its design philosophy, aiming for mainstream consumers to find the vehicles visually appealing at first glance [1][2]. - The criticism of Li Auto's MEGA design led to adjustments in the appearance of its i8 and i6 models, indicating a shift towards more conventional aesthetics [1]. Group 2: Financial Performance - Xiaomi has shown strong financial performance over the past 15 months, while Li Auto's financial results have not met earlier expectations, leading to dissatisfaction regarding its design choices [2]. - Public sentiment towards a company's design and decisions often correlates with its financial performance; positive results lead to praise, while negative results lead to criticism [2]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Tesla's first-generation EV design has set a standard in the industry for the past decade, focusing on low drag, good handling, low energy consumption, and long range [2][3]. - Li Auto has built upon Tesla's design principles, potentially leading the industry for the next 5-10 years due to the significant user value of its design approach [3]. Group 4: Technical Aspects - Li Auto has not surpassed Tesla in low drag, handling, energy efficiency, or range, as these aspects are largely dictated by physical laws and design choices [4]. - Xiaomi's SU7 MAX is designed to match Tesla's Model 3 Performance in handling, indicating its capability to achieve similar performance levels [5]. - Li Auto's approach to charging infrastructure and design after removing the engine is seen as a competitive advantage, focusing on user experience with fast charging capabilities [5][6]. Group 5: User Value Considerations - Li Auto prioritizes internal space over front trunk space, believing that maximizing internal space will provide greater user value, especially with the future of autonomous driving [6]. - The design choices made by Li Auto reflect a belief that internal space will be more valuable than aesthetic considerations derived from traditional vehicle designs [6].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the development and strategic positioning of Li Auto's supercharging network, emphasizing its potential to become the optimal solution for electric vehicle charging in China before the widespread commercialization of solid-state batteries [4][13]. Charging Network Development - Li Auto's target for 2025 is to establish 3,000 supercharging stations, a revision from the previously stated goal of 4,000 stations, which included 1,200 high-speed stations [1][2]. - According to the Ministry of Transport, China has 190,700 kilometers of highways in 2024, suggesting that approximately 1,900 supercharging stations would be needed for a 200-kilometer coverage, while 3,800 stations would saturate the market [3]. Product Value and Design - The Li Auto supercharging system is based on a combination of 5C batteries and 5C supercharging stations, along with a forward-thinking design for electric vehicles [4]. - The core of the pure electric design focuses on reducing wind resistance for better highway range and maximizing internal space by eliminating the front trunk, which is a more advanced concept compared to competitors [5]. Competitive Landscape - Currently, only NIO and Li Auto are actively addressing high-speed charging needs, with NIO having an advantage in charging speed and a greater number of charging stations [8]. - However, Li Auto excels in practical range, internal space, and marginal cost of iteration, areas where NIO is lagging [9]. Charging Infrastructure and User Value - Li Auto aims for all its electric vehicles to feature 5C charging capabilities, focusing on practical highway ranges of 400-450 kilometers in summer and 300-350 kilometers in winter [11]. - Other automakers are falling behind in high-speed charging infrastructure, with Li Auto being the only company to redefine electric vehicle standards beyond Tesla's approach [12][14]. Innovation and Market Position - Li Auto's products are characterized by innovative thinking, distinguishing them from competitors like Xiaomi and Huawei, which may replicate successful elements but lack the unique innovative capability [14].