– Li Auto, a Chinese electric vehicle (EV) company, is focusing on developing its own automotive chips.
– The company has established an overseas team to work on chip development.
– Li Auto’s move reflects a broader trend among automakers to become more self-reliant in semiconductor production.
– The global chip shortage has underscored the importance of in-house chip capabilities.
– Li Auto’s target demographic, young Chinese families, may benefit from the company’s integrated approach to vehicle design and manufacturing.
Electric vehicle (EV) darling Li Auto is revving up its tech game by shifting gears towards in-house chip development. In a world where the hum of an electric motor is becoming as familiar as the roar of an internal combustion engine, Li Auto is not just content with assembling sleek EVs; it’s diving deep into the silicon that powers them.
The company isn’t just keeping this venture close to home. They’ve cast their net across the seas, assembling an international team of whizzes to tackle the complex task of chip creation. This isn’t just a side project—it’s a strategic maneuver that’s becoming increasingly common in the automotive industry.
Why the sudden interest in chip-making, you ask? Well, it’s no secret that the global chip shortage has left automakers scrambling. It’s like showing up at a potluck without your famous casserole—everyone notices. This shortage has put a spotlight on the vulnerability of relying on external suppliers for something as critical as semiconductors.
By taking chip production under their own hood, Li Auto is steering towards a future where they can cruise past supply chain disruptions with ease. It’s a smart move, especially considering their clientele. Young Chinese families, who are often early adopters and tech-savvy, are likely to appreciate a vehicle that’s as integrated and forward-thinking as their smartphones.
In summary, Li Auto is making a strategic pivot to develop its own automotive chips, a move that could give it more control over its supply chain and product development. This initiative is part of a larger trend in the automotive industry towards self-reliance in semiconductor production, driven by recent global shortages.
Here’s my hot take: Li Auto’s chip chase is like deciding to bake your bread instead of buying it. Sure, it’s a bit of a hassle at first, but once you’ve got your recipe down, you’re no longer at the mercy of the bakery’s opening hours or bread shortages. For businesses, this is a lesson in self-sufficiency. In the tech world, where the only constant is change (and the occasional shortage), having control over your core components isn’t just smart—it’s essential for survival. So, if you’re in the business of making things that go “beep” and “boop,” maybe it’s time to consider how you can get a little more hands-on with your hardware.
Original article: https://techcrunch.com/2023/11/21/chinas-ev-upstart-li-auto-hunts-for-chip-talent-in-singapore/