Images released by showed the L9's general design style is similar to the company's only current model, the Li ONE, but with some details improved.

After announcing some of the specifications and interior information for the new SUV L9 last week, Li Auto (NASDAQ: LI, HKG: 2015) today unveiled the exterior of the model.

The images released by Li Auto showed that the model's general design style is similar to the company's current sole model, the Li ONE, but with a few details that have been improved.

The model uses a LiDAR on the roof, similar to the setup of 's ET7 and ET5 sedans.

Its front end has a smaller grille than the Li ONE, and the rear differs little from the Li ONE, except that the taillight has become a straight line.

The Li Auto L9 features hidden door handles, unlike the normal door handles used in the Li ONE.

On March 9, Li Auto announced the SUV's price range, some specification information, and interior trim.

The L9 will be a smart flagship SUV for families, and it will have a price range of RMB 450,000 ($71,200) to RMB 500,000 and will be announced at next month's Beijing Auto Show, the company said last week.

With the upcoming launch of the new SUV L9, Li Auto and its industrial chain are expected to be the 'dark horse' of the year, Soochow Securities analysts said on Monday.

"The most important reason we are particularly focused on Li Auto and its supply chain is that the Li Auto L9 could be the hottest-selling product in the new energy vehicle (NEV) market in 2022," the team said.

The L9 and Li ONE are creating a whole new category of "luxury cars for family users" and their popularity is highly valued, the team said.

Here are images of the L9 as released by Li Auto:

The following images shows the Li ONE:

Li Auto and its supply chain could be 'dark horse' in 2022, analysts say