Li Auto Launches First Overseas Retail Center in Uzbekistan, Faces Global Race

When XPENG and Leapmotor have already established massive networks globally, especially in Europe, Southeast Asia, Middle East, Africa and Latin America, the leading Chinese NEV startup Li Auto inaugurated its first overseas retail center in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Is it too late for Li Auto?

Li Auto’s First Overseas Retail Center Marks Global Expansion Start

Today, Li Auto official Weibo account disclosed its first authorized retail center located in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. This milestone marks Li Auto’s start of its global expansion strategy, as well as its first entry into the Central Asian market.

Unlike its direct sales model in China, Li Auto chose to cooperate with leading automotive distributors in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, including Control Auto, Allur, and Doscar. Leveraging the local distribution helpers, Li Auto will be able to open another 2 retail centers in Almaty and Astana, Kazakhstan in November. Full post-sale services are offered in the stores including official warranties, professional maintenance, efficient original spare parts delivery, technical support, and over-the-air (OTA) updates.  

Offering Premium Services and Advanced EREV Models

Three models are introduced to local market, the Li L9, Li L7, and Li L6, all are extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) models. According to the Wu Zuomin, Head of Li Auto’s International Business, Li Auto is expanding globally, and offering advanced new energy vehicles with comprehensive premium experience for overseas customers. To amplify its global presence and overseas sales growth, the company is targeting the Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and European markets.

Li Auto Trails Behind XPENG and Leapmotor’s Overseas Advances

While comparing to its peers, XPENG and Leapmotor, Li Auto is far way behind. XPENG has already establish Munich R&D center, and entered into 46 countries and regions with 275 overseas stores. XPENG sold 24,702 vehicles in overseas markets from January to August 2025, marking a 137% YoY surge. By the end of 2025, XPENG is targeting 300+ stores in 60 countries and regions.

Leapmotor is a hardcore player as well. Leveraging its strategic partner the Stellantis, Leapmotor has already expanded into over 30 countries with 600+ networks, targeting 50+ by the end of 2025. Its Spanish factory, jointly built with Stellantis is under construction now, and is scheduled to start production by the end of Q3 2026. In the first eight months, Leapmotor delivered 24,980 units overseas, marking its leading position among Chinese NEV startups.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead for Li Auto

Two years ago, Li Auto decided to develop Chinese domestic market, is now a better time? We don’t know. But one thing is true that it’s harder for it now to occupy the market. What will Li Auto do to break through the situation, we’ll see.

*(Exchange rate: RMB 7.1 = USD 1)*