Li Auto Head of Material R&D, Duan Jichao, announced the development of UFHS-X, an ultra-high strength stainless steel material designed for fuel tanks.
The company spent nearly four years developing the material. The project cost exceeded RMB10 million, a figure six times greater than conventional stainless steel development.
UFHS-X boasts significant performance gains over traditional 304L stainless steel. The new material achieves a yield strength 100% higher and improves the fuel tank's puncture resistance by 52%.
The extensive R&D process required hundreds of formula designs, the smelting of over 1,000 tons of steel, and numerous trials, including stamping, corrosion cycles, and crash tests. Li Auto states this innovation enhances vehicle safety and performance through advanced material science. There has been no immediate discernible market reaction to the announcement.