Large automotive company IM Motors seeks approval for LS9, a new extended-range SUV model intended for the spacious, far-reaching market segment.
IM Motors Launches Flagship Hybrid SUV, the IM LS9
IM Motors, a unit of SAIC Motor, has announced the launch of its new hybrid model, the IM LS9. This luxury six-seat SUV is the electric vehicle (EV) unit's first foray into the hybrid market, marking a significant step in SAIC Motor's electrification strategy.
Design and Performance
The IM LS9 boasts a premium design with elements reminiscent of Range Rover and Rolls-Royce styling. It features a closed grille, full-width light bar, chromed window surrounds, concealed door handles, and a panoramic sunroof. The SUV offers wheel size options from 20 to 22 inches.
Under the hood, the LS9 employs a 1.5-liter gasoline engine as a range extender, paired with dual electric motors. The front motor delivers approximately 215 hp (160 kW), while the rear motor produces around 308 hp (230 kW). The combined output is about 673 horsepower, enabling a top speed of 220 km/h.
The hybrid system allows for an electric-only range of up to 318-450 kilometers, using a CATL Freevoy ternary lithium-ion battery pack around 65.9 kWh capacity. The SUV also includes IM Motors’ third-generation X-by-Wire technology, enabling full electronic control of all four wheels.
Specifications
The IM LS9 has a curb weight of approximately 2695 kg and a wheelbase of 3160 mm. It measures 5279 mm in length, 2000 mm in width, and 1806 mm in height, providing ample legroom in the second and third rows.
Production and Market
The IM LS9 will be produced at various SAIC factories located in Ningde (Fujian province), Zhengzhou (Henan province), Nanjing (Jiangsu province), and Pudong (Shanghai). The SUV is expected to launch in China in the fourth quarter of 2025. Internationally, it may be rebadged as IM9, following the brand’s naming conventions in overseas markets like Australia.
The IM LS9 is IM Motors' flagship model and marks its first non-pure electric vehicle. Among China's domestic EV manufacturers, only Nio remains committed to producing only battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The public can submit feedback on the IM LS9 from July 17 to 23.
[1] IM Motors Official Website: https://www.im-motors.com/ [2] SAIC Motor Official Website: https://www.saic-motor.com/ [3] CATL Official Website: https://www.catl.com/ [4] IM LS9 Press Release: https://www.im-motors.com/news/press-releases/im-motors-unveils-ls9-its-first-large-hybrid-suv/
Note: All horsepower and kilowatt values are approximate.
- The IM LS9, a hybrid SUV developed by IM Motors, a unit of SAIC Motor, is set to join the electric vehicle (EV) industry, signifying a crucial move in SAIC Motor's electrification strategy.
- The IM LS9, set to launch in China in Q4 2025, boasts a premium design with elements borrowed from Range Rover and Rolls-Royce styling.
- The IM LS9's hybrid system, using a CATL battery pack, offers an electric-only range of up to 450 kilometers, placing it among modern automotive technology advancements in the transportation and lifestyle sector.
- The IM LS9, with its X-by-Wire technology, is the first non-pure electric vehicle from IM Motors, while, in contrast, Nio, another China-based startup, remains committed to producing only battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in the fast-growing electric-vehicles market.
- The IM LS9, produced at various SAIC factories, offers a combined output of approximately 673 horsepower and features wheel sizes ranging from 20 to 22 inches.
- The IM LS9, with a curb weight of approximately 2695 kg, can reach a top speed of 220 km/h, showcasing the evolution of the automotive industry and the increasing role technology plays in our daily lifestyle.
- The IM LS9, following the brand's naming conventions, may be rebadged as IM9 for international markets, such as Australia, allowing a broader reach in the global market.
- The IM LS9, showcased with its impressive specifications on IM Motors' official website, represents the company's ambitious plans for expansion in the hybrid vehicle market and the future of the EV industry.
- The public is invited to submit feedback on the IM LS9 from July 17 to 23, exemplifying an open-door policy and demonstrating IM Motors' commitment to monitor and cater to consumer needs in the market.
