Chinese electric vehicle maker Li Auto is reportedly bringing on a third battery supplier, CALB, to bolster its power source options. This strategic move is expected to see CALB’s batteries debut first in Li Auto’s pure electric models, with the upcoming Li i6 potentially being the very first vehicle to feature the new supplier’s technology.
New Player in Li Auto’s Battery Strategy
According to multiple industry sources cited by 36Kr, Li Auto is integrating CALB into its supply chain. This diversification aims to enhance production capacity and potentially offer different battery chemistries or performance characteristics across its evolving EV lineup.
Indications of this shift emerged with the recent Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) announcement for the 2026 Li i6. The filings reveal that while the battery pack assembly is handled by Shandong Li Auto Battery Co., Ltd., the individual battery cells for the 2026 model will be sourced from two manufacturers: Saiyang (欣旺达) and CALB. This contrasts with the 2025 Li i6, which relies on Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) and Saiyang.
CALB: A Rising Force in Batteries
CALB (中创新航) is a significant player in China’s electric vehicle battery market, ranking third in shipments behind industry giants CATL and BYD. The company is also recognized for its expertise in ternary lithium battery technology, positioning it as a key competitor to CATL in this advanced segment.
This move aligns with Li Auto’s broader strategy to secure a robust and diverse battery supply. The company has previously announced plans to adopt a dual-battery strategy starting in 2026, utilizing both its own “Li Auto Brand” batteries and those from CATL across all its models. Li Donghui, Li Auto’s President, emphasized in March that regardless of the supplier, all batteries must meet Li Auto’s stringent performance, quality, and safety standards to ensure a consistent user experience.
Diversification for Future Growth
The inclusion of CALB signifies Li Auto’s proactive approach to managing its battery supply chain, a critical component for EV production. By partnering with multiple suppliers, Li Auto can mitigate risks associated with single-sourcing and potentially leverage different technological strengths to optimize its vehicle offerings.
The collaboration with Saiyang for “Li Auto Brand” batteries is also progressing, with mass deployment expected this year. This dual-pronged approach—partnering with established giants like CATL and emerging leaders like CALB, while also developing in-house capabilities—positions Li Auto for sustained growth and innovation in the competitive electric vehicle landscape.
The 2026 Li i6, set to begin pre-orders by the end of September, is anticipated to be a key model in showcasing these new battery integrations. Recent filings also show Li Auto reapplying for L9 Livis models equipped with its in-house developed batteries, indicating a strong commitment to self-reliance in battery technology alongside strategic external partnerships.
