The Breakthrough in Range-Extended Electric Vehicle Technology
- The two companies will collaborate on the industrialization of Li Auto’s proprietary XPM technology for use in next-generation extended-range electric drive systems.
- Li Auto will license its XPM technology to the broader industry via licensing, marking the first time the company will open its technology to external partners.
In a significant breakthrough in range-extended electric vehicle technology, Li Auto and Zhuzhou CRRC Times Semiconductor Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of CRRC, signed a Next-Generation Power Module Licensed Development Technology Agreement at Li Auto’s Shanghai R&D Center on April 21, 2025. The partnership aims to drive innovation in the industry by developing and manufacturing the XPM (eXtender Power Module) technology, a cutting-edge solution designed to enhance the performance and efficiency of electric vehicles.
The XPM Module: A Single Unit of Power
- The XPM module is a two-in-one power module specifically designed for range-extended electric vehicles, combining five key innovations to deliver industry-leading performance.
- The module incorporates CRRC’s advanced 7.5-generation fine-groove IGBT chip technology and has been validated across various application scenarios using CRRC’s multipurpose packaging testing platform.
- The XPM module reduces total module length by approximately 38% compared to conventional two-module designs and enables a 50% reduction in IGBT chip area, 33% reduction in FRD chip area, and over 45% total chip area reduction.
The XPM module’s superior performance and system-level benefits are supported by a suite of five core patented technologies, including an integrated structure and cooling system, optimized chip size and ratio for IGBT and FRD components, low-inductance high-voltage terminal design, and compact, high-precision current sensor integration. These innovations further reduce the volume, weight, and cost of dual-motor powertrains using the XPM module.
Key Benefits of the XPM Module
| Benefit | Description | Comparison |
| Reduced Module Length | Approximately 38% reduction compared to conventional two-module designs. | 50% reduction in IGBT chip area, 33% reduction in FRD chip area, and over 45% total chip area reduction. |
| Lower Parasitic Inductance | Just 10 nH, more than 50% less than that of traditional designs. |
The XPM module will not be exclusive to Li Auto’s next-gen range-extended systems. Li Auto has decided to license the XPM technology industry-wide, marking a significant move for the company. Zhuzhou CRRC Times Semiconductor will lead mass production development of the XPM module based on Li Auto’s technology, with applications extending beyond Li Auto’s own vehicle lineup to serve other automakers as well.
Industry-Wide Licensing and Mass Production
“The XPM technology represents a significant breakthrough in range-extended electric vehicle technology, and we are excited to open it up to the broader industry via licensing,” said Li Auto’s CEO, Dan Li.
Under the agreement, CRRC Times will lead mass production development of the XPM module based on Li Auto’s technology. This partnership will enable other automakers to adopt the XPM technology in their vehicles, driving innovation and competition in the electric vehicle market.
Conclusion
Li Auto’s decision to license the XPM technology marks a significant step forward in the development of range-extended electric vehicle technology. The partnership with Zhuzhou CRRC Times Semiconductor Co., Ltd. will drive innovation and competition in the industry, leading to more efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, it is likely that the XPM technology will play a key role in shaping the future of electric vehicles.