IM Motors, the electric vehicle unit of SAIC Motor, is preparing to launch its first hybrid model, the IM LS9, a large six-seat SUV using extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) technology. The move marks a significant shift for the company, which has previously focused solely on battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and aligns it with a growing trend among Chinese automakers to diversify their lineups with plug-in hybrid models.
The IM LS9 was recently listed in China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) catalog of models proposed for regulatory approval, a key step before sales can begin. The SUV appears in the catalog under the model number CSA6531LFSHEV1. Public comments on the vehicle are being accepted from July 17 to 23. Measuring 5,279 mm in length, 2,000 mm in width, and 1,806 mm in height, with a 3,160 mm wheelbase, the LS9 will be the largest model in IM Motors’ lineup to date.
The LS9 combines a 1.5-liter engine from SAIC serving as a range extender with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration. The front electric motor delivers up to 160 kW, while the rear motor provides 230 kW of peak power.
The model uses ternary lithium-ion batteries supplied by CATL (SHE: 300750) and is capable of reaching a top speed of 220 km/h. Manufacturing for the LS9 will be carried out at SAIC’s facilities across several locations including Ningde, Zhengzhou, Nanjing, and Shanghai.
The LS9 is set to become IM Motors’ flagship model, reflected by the number 9 designation, which typically signifies top-tier status in the Chinese auto market. The company currently offers a lineup of fully electric sedans and SUVs—namely the IM L6, L7, LS6, and LS7.
The introduction of a hybrid model marks an evolution in IM Motors’ strategy, which was previously focused on BEVs. This pivot aligns with broader industry trends, as more Chinese automakers respond to rising consumer demand for extended-range and plug-in hybrid models offering greater flexibility and charging convenience.
IM Motors co-CEO Liu Tao previously stated that the company’s next product would utilize extended-range technology to overcome the shortcomings of existing EREV models, which typically offer limited battery range and slow charging times. With only Nio (NYSE: NIO) still exclusively committed to BEVs, the IM LS9 launch underscores the growing dominance of hybrid powertrains in China’s transition to electrified transport.
