Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry and Company Involved - The discussion revolves around the **carbon-ceramic brake disc** technology in the **electric vehicle (EV)** industry, specifically focusing on **Li Auto** and its collaboration with **Jinbo Technology** [1][2][5][18]. Core Insights and Arguments - **Application of Carbon-Ceramic Brake Discs**: Li Auto plans to implement carbon-ceramic brake discs in its high-end L series models starting in **2026**, aiming for **20%** of these models to feature this technology by **2027**. This shift is driven by the need for weight reduction and improved braking performance, potentially increasing the vehicle's range by **10-20 km** and reducing the braking distance to approximately **36 meters** [1][5][17]. - **Weight Reduction Benefits**: Carbon-ceramic brake discs can reduce weight by about **50%** compared to traditional cast iron discs. Although there are no national subsidies, local governments provide research and development subsidies for companies adopting lightweight materials, typically around **10%** of the lightweight component cost [1][3]. - **Cost and Supplier Dynamics**: The cost of domestic carbon-ceramic brake discs has decreased to around **20,000 yuan** per set, significantly lower than international counterparts. Jinbo Technology, the main supplier, boasts a production capacity of **4 million discs per year** and offers products that are **two-thirds cheaper** than similar foreign products [1][9][8]. - **Technological Maturity and Market Trust**: The introduction of carbon-ceramic brake discs in models like the **Xiaomi Su Qi** has marked a significant advancement in domestic technology, enhancing market trust and prompting other EV manufacturers to upgrade their configurations [1][6][7]. - **R&D and Supplier Selection Process**: Li Auto's selection of Jinbo Technology was based on its cost control, process optimization, and service responsiveness. The collaboration began in **2023**, with a focus on material stability and cost management [2][18]. Other Important but Potentially Overlooked Content - **Impact on Braking Performance**: The use of carbon-ceramic brake discs not only improves the vehicle's range but also enhances braking performance, with a more stable friction coefficient and better initial braking force, leading to a smoother driving experience [4][6]. - **Government Support for R&D**: Local government initiatives, such as the **New Energy Vehicle Industry Development Special Fund**, are crucial in supporting R&D efforts, allowing companies like Li Auto to secure additional resources for technology advancement [2][14]. - **Competitive Landscape**: While domestic suppliers are making strides in hardware development, they still lag behind established companies like Brembo in software development and overall project experience. This gap presents both a challenge and an opportunity for growth in the domestic market [11][10]. - **Future Market Trends**: The market for carbon-ceramic brake discs is expected to grow, particularly in the EV sector, as manufacturers seek to enhance vehicle performance and efficiency while reducing costs [6][7]. - **Collaboration with Established Brands**: Li Auto's partnership with Brembo focuses on developing comprehensive braking solutions, although Brembo does not provide hardware due to increasing competition from domestic manufacturers [10][12]. This summary encapsulates the key points discussed in the conference call, highlighting the strategic direction of Li Auto in the context of the evolving EV market and the implications of adopting carbon-ceramic brake technology.