China’s Li Auto bases R&D center in Germany in global push

Li Auto scales back EV ambitions with “more validation work”: CEO. Credit: Li Auto

Chinese electric vehicle maker Li Auto has selected Germany as the base for its first overseas research and development center, marking the official start of its global strategy and enhancing its research capabilities in areas such as artificial intelligence. President Ma Donghui made the announcement Jan. 17 at an opening ceremony in Munich, which was also attended by Qiu Xuejun, China’s consul general in Munich, Xinhua News Agency reported. The company will use the center to study the European market and develop capabilities aligned with European automotive regulations and consumer preferences, preparing for a potential entry into this highly competitive and mature car market, according to the report. [Xinhua]