SAIC-backed IM Motors launched the next-generation LS6 electric SUV on September 23, according to Netease Auto. The model is offered in three trims, with prices ranging from 197,900 to 259,900 yuan (about $27,900 to $36,600) as a Chinese guide price before taxes and incentives. The launch marks the first vehicle under IM's "NEXT·2028" strategy, bringing its new NEO three-electric architecture and full steer-by-wire chassis to the mainstream family SUV segment.
Chassis and powertrain highlights
The LS6's headline feature is its full steer-by-wire system, which IM calls the Lingxi digital chassis. It integrates steer-by-wire, four-wheel steering and air suspension. The steer-by-wire has a response time of 20 milliseconds and three layers of safety protection, according to the company. The high-spec version adds full-scene air suspension and electronically controlled variable damping, allowing the suspension to adjust in real time. The system enables a turning radius of just 4.49 meters, letting the driver make a U-turn with half a turn of the wheel.
IM says this is the first time such advanced chassis hardware has been offered at this price point, as rivals typically reserve air suspension for top trims and rarely include four-wheel steering. The LS6 is built on IM's next-generation NEO architecture, featuring the latest NEO hurricane electric motor and an energy efficiency manager system. The company claims energy consumption of 12.7 kWh per 100 km, translating to a running cost of about 0.04 yuan per kilometer.
The SUV uses an 800-volt electrical architecture, supporting fast charging at up to 396 kW. IM says it can add 500 km of range in 15 minutes and is compatible with more than 90 percent of public charging piles. The battery can still charge at -20 degrees Celsius, with a capacity retention rate of up to 95 percent. Three battery options are offered: 76 kWh, 93 kWh and 103 kWh. The entry-level BEV (battery-electric) version has a CLTC range of 650 km, while the top 103 kWh ternary lithium battery version reaches 802 km on the CLTC cycle. For context, CLTC figures are typically 15-20 percent more optimistic than WLTP, so the 802 km figure would correspond to roughly 640-680 km under WLTP (estimated).
Interior and smart driving
The cabin is designed as a "super first-class cabin," with a 27.1-inch 5K Mini-LED central touchscreen and a 15.6-inch 3K entertainment screen for the front passenger. The infotainment runs on a Qualcomm 8295P chip. All seats are electrically adjustable and come with ventilation, heating and massage functions. The front passenger seat offers three modes: zero-gravity, chaise lounge and fold-flat. The rear seat backrest can recline up to 131 degrees. IM claims a 90 percent cabin space efficiency, with a boot that can hold up to eight 20-inch suitcases. The LS6 also features a Knock-Knock smart electric front trunk.
For driver assistance, IM partners with Momenta, using its IM AD Zeta system that applies L4-level model capabilities to L2 functions. The vehicle also gets an upgraded roof-mounted lidar. The LS6 measures 4,921 mm long, 1,988 mm wide and 1,678 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,950 mm. New exterior colors include Jimi Silver and Mucha Green, named after the artist.
The new LS6 targets the 200,000-yuan family SUV segment, aiming to undercut rivals by making premium chassis and comfort features standard. According to Netease Auto, the launch is part of IM's broader strategy to bring next-generation technology to mainstream buyers.
