A Li Auto Mega electric vehicle erupted in flames while driving in Shanghai on October 23, burning down to its frame within seconds in an incident that has intensified scrutiny over battery safety in China's rapidly expanding electric vehicle market. The company confirmed all occupants escaped unharmed, with doors opening successfully despite the rapid fire spread.

The incident occurred late at night in Shanghai's Xuhui District when the vehicle, Li Auto's flagship pure electric model, suddenly caught fire while in motion. Video footage circulating online shows flames initially emerging from the vehicle's undercarriage, followed by multiple explosions within 10 seconds before the entire vehicle was engulfed. Two occupants evacuated safely.

Li Auto stated it has dispatched personnel to the scene and is cooperating with fire department investigations. The Shenzhen-based automaker emphasized that "the doors opened smoothly and the driver and all passengers safely exited the vehicle."

The fire department has launched an investigation into the cause of the blaze.

Vehicle Specifications and Battery Details

The Mega, Li Auto's first pure electric vehicle, launched in March 2024 with a starting price of 559,800 yuan ($78,000). Currently available models include the 2025 Ultra Smart Driving Edition and the 2025 Home Family Edition, priced between 529,800 yuan and 559,800 yuan.

Both variants are equipped with Qilin batteries jointly developed by Contemporary Amperex Technology and Li Auto, utilizing ternary lithium material. CATL manufactures the battery cells for these vehicles.

Industry Safety Concerns

The incident has reignited market concerns about battery safety in new energy vehicles. Industry experts attribute most electric vehicle fires to thermal runaway in battery systems.

According to the previously released "Energy-Saving and New Energy Vehicle Roadmap 3.0," the transportation system centered on intelligent connected new energy vehicles is developing toward "zero accidents, zero casualties, and high efficiency."

The rapid fire spread observed in this case—with the vehicle completely consumed within approximately 10 seconds—highlights ongoing challenges in battery thermal management and fire suppression systems. The incident comes as China continues to lead global electric vehicle adoption, with battery safety remaining a critical concern for manufacturers and regulators.