IM LS6 launches a technology offensive in the SUV segment
IM Motors has opened pre-orders for the new generation of the LS6 in China. The SAIC Group’s electric car brand is initially offering the five-seat SUV in three all-electric variants, with prices starting at 209,900 yuan.
Initial interest was considerable. According to the manufacturer, more than 8,000 pre-orders were placed within the first 45 minutes. However, because the reservations can be canceled until the official market launch, they do not yet represent the same number of confirmed sales.
Three powertrains with up to 782 km of CLTC range
All available versions use an 800-volt platform. The Max and Pro Max have rear-wheel drive, while the Ultra gets two electric motors and all-wheel drive.
| Version | Max | Pro Max | Ultra |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-order price | 209,900 yuan | 229,900 yuan | 264,900 yuan |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| Battery | 76 kWh | 93 kWh | 103 kWh |
| Range | 650 km CLTC | 782 km CLTC | 750 km CLTC |
| 0 to 100 km/h | 6.4 seconds | 5.4 seconds | 3.48 seconds |
The range figures are based on China’s CLTC test cycle and are not directly comparable with European WLTP figures. In everyday driving, the figures are likely to be significantly lower, particularly at highway speeds and in low temperatures.
The 800-volt architecture generally provides a good basis for high charging power and lower current levels. However, the actual benefit depends on the charging curve and battery preconditioning. Our comparison of 800-volt and 400-volt electric car architectures explains the differences.
Electronic chassis is the key technical feature
A major focus of the new IM LS6 is its fully electronically controlled chassis. The steering and brakes use steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire systems, respectively, without conventional mechanical transmission of the driver’s inputs.
It also features all-wheel steering, with the rear wheels able to turn by up to 18 degrees, according to the manufacturer. This is intended to give the LS6 a turning radius of just 4.79 m. In tight parking garages in particular, this could make a large SUV significantly more maneuverable.
Large family SUV, small turning circle: Rear-wheel steering could prove more important in everyday driving than maximum acceleration.
The Ultra version adds air suspension and electronically controlled adaptive dampers to the package. This positions IM Motors’ flagship model more firmly in the premium segment.
Comfort and AI for families
Inside, the manufacturer offers extensive comfort equipment. For a limited time, this includes a B&O sound system, a driver’s seat with mechanical 4D massage, a 15.6-inch display for the front passenger, and a refrigerator with heating and cooling functions.
The IM Claw digital assistant uses Alibaba’s Qwen language model. It is designed to interpret even vaguely phrased requests and link multiple vehicle functions together. The crucial question will be how reliably these features work in everyday use and outside Chinese online services.
The IM AD Zeta system provides driver assistance. So far, there are no specific details regarding European approval or its range of functions on roads in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, collectively known as the DACH region.
IM LS6 takes on the Model Y and Zeekr 7X
In China, the SUV will compete with models including the Tesla Model Y. With its efficient powertrain, extensive charging network and established software ecosystem, the Tesla remains an important benchmark. IM Motors counters with sophisticated chassis technology, larger batteries and an emphasis on luxurious equipment.
Another direct rival is the Zeekr 7X with 900-volt technology. The competition shows how strongly Chinese manufacturers now differentiate their vehicles through charging platforms, rear-wheel steering and interior comfort.
Launch in Germany remains uncertain for now
The stated prices apply exclusively to China and cannot be transferred directly to Germany, Austria or Switzerland because of taxes, transport costs and differences in equipment. The manufacturer has not yet announced a launch of the IM LS6 in the DACH region.
Customers participating in the Chinese pre-order program pay a refundable reservation fee of 2,000 yuan. Those who confirm their order at the market launch receive a credit of 5,000 yuan. Final list prices have not yet been set either; for the previous model, the entry-level price at launch was lower than the pre-order price.
