Li Auto Chip Unit Eyes $2.2B Valuation in First Funding Round

Li Auto is preparing to open its in-house chip unit to outside investors for the first time, with a pre-money valuation of roughly 15 billion yuan (approx. $2.2 billion), according to reports.

The company plans to raise several billion yuan (approx. $350 million to $700 million) for its semiconductor business, which designs and develops automotive-grade chips used across Li Auto's range-extender and pure-electric models.

This marks the first external funding round for the chip subsidiary, which has been funded entirely by Li Auto's internal operations since its establishment. The move signals Li Auto's intent to accelerate its chip development through outside capital while potentially opening the door for future spin-off or listing plans.

Li Auto's chip unit has been working on domain controllers and smart-driving solutions. The company has emphasized self-reliance in core components as Chinese EV makers face increasing supply-chain pressures and trade restrictions.

Details of the funding round — including lead investors and exact valuation — have not yet been disclosed.