Why does the Ideal ONE use a three-cylinder engine?
2 Answers
Mainly because engineers incorporated components such as generator vibration dampers, double-layer oil pans, and polyurethane acoustic covers during the design phase to effectively reduce vibration and noise. Below is additional information: Introduction: The Ideal ONE is a smart electric mid-to-large SUV launched by Li Auto in October 2018, equipped with leading extended-range electric technology and intelligent features. Deliveries began in December 2019. In 2020, the Ideal ONE became the best-selling new energy SUV in China and the top-selling domestic model priced above 300,000 RMB. Production Capacity: Li Auto's Changzhou facility has an annual production capacity of 100,000 units, covering stamping, welding, painting, and assembly workshops. It utilizes advanced processes and equipment to ensure the Ideal ONE meets luxury brand manufacturing standards.
Why does the Li ONE use a three-cylinder engine? I think this design is quite clever, mainly because it serves as a range extender—essentially a little helper that charges the battery, unlike traditional engines that drive the wheels. Three-cylinder engines are much lighter than four-cylinder ones, with less friction, making them more fuel-efficient and space-saving. With today's technology, adding balance shafts and such reduces vibration and noise significantly, making the ride more comfortable. In daily use, a single tank of gas can take you quite far, and the battery lasts longer too. Other automakers also favor three-cylinder engines, like BMW's three-cylinder models, but Li Auto's application in an electric system is innovative, offering great value for money and making it super convenient for average families. Using a four-cylinder engine would just waste resources and undermine the lightweight advantage of electric vehicles. Anyway, I think this combo is practical and reliable.
