IM Motors Launches Updated LS6 SUV to Compete with Tesla Model Y

IM Motors, the electric vehicle (EV) division of SAIC Motor Corp, has unveiled the updated version of its LS6 electric SUV, designed to compete directly with Tesla’s Model Y. The company introduced the updated model at a launch event, showcasing significant enhancements and offering five variants with prices starting at RMB 239,900 ($34,220).

The pricing represents a slight increase from the previous starting price of RMB 229,900 during the pre-sale period, which began on August 30. IM Motors is also offering a limited-time discount for customers who place an order before October 8, allowing them to reduce the final payment by RMB 25,000 by placing a deposit of RMB 2,000. This discount brings the starting price down to RMB 216,900.

Features and Performance

The updated LS6 is a mid-to-large-size SUV with a length of 4,910 mm, a width of 1,988 mm, and a height of 1,669 mm, featuring a wheelbase of 4,910 mm. It includes four-wheel steering, allowing for an ultra-small turning radius, and the top variant features a dual-motor four-wheel drive powertrain. The SUV offers acceleration from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in 3.48 seconds for the four-wheel-drive version and between 5.4 and 6.4 seconds for the single-motor models.

The entry-level variant is built on a 400 V platform with a 75 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, providing a range of 625 kilometers under the CLTC cycle. Higher-end variants use 800 V or quasi-900 V platforms, with larger battery capacities of up to 100 kWh, offering ranges between 701 and 802 kilometers. The intelligent driving system features Nvidia’s Orin X chip and LiDAR.

Market Goals and Future Plans

IM Motors has set a target of selling more than 10,000 units of the updated LS6 each month, according to the company’s Chief Marketing Officer Li Weimeng. The company reported that over 6,000 orders were placed for the new LS6 within the first 12 hours of availability. IM Motors also plans to introduce extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) models in 2025, with more details on smart driving features expected later this year.