The updated IM LS6 large SUV from SAIC and Alibaba has applied for a sales license in China with an EREV powertrain option. This crossover also has a refreshed exterior design. However, the power output of its 4WD electric variant decreased.

IM Motors is a joint venture between SAIC and Alibaba, launched in 2020. Its current model line comprises four electric vehicles: the L6 & the L7 sedans, and the LS6 & the LS7 crossovers. However, this brand suffers from slow sales in the highly competitive domestic market. IM Motors sold 15,174 units from January to April 2025, according to China EV DataTracker.

The LS6 SUV is the brand’s bestselling model with 9,649 units sold. However, its sales volume isn’t significant, judging by the standards of the vast Chinese market. To fix the LS6’s sales performance, IM Motors filed for its update with an EREV powertrain option.

More about IM LS6

The updated IM LS6 got a redesigned front end. Previously, this model was criticized for “bubbly” headlights and a fuzzy front bumper. The updated crossover has fin-shaped headlights and a redesigned bumper with a large air intake. From the back, this SUV still resembles the Aston Martin DBX. The dimensions of the IM LS6 are 4937/1988/1671 mm with a wheelbase of 2960 mm. It became 27 mm longer than the old model.

The IM LS6 has a LiDAR sensor on the roof, retractable door handles, and a low beltline. It is available with two wheel options: R20 and R21. The approach and departure angles of this SUV are 17 and 21 degrees, respectively. There is one image of the updated LS6 interior, showing an optional steering yoke. The IM LS6 EV’s curb weight lies in the 2,255 – 2,385 kg range.

The all-electric IM LS6 has three powertrain variants. The entry-level model adopts the UAES-made TZ210XS1141 synchronous permanent magnet electric motor in the rear axle for 245 kW (329 hp). It is powered by an LFP battery from CALB. The next trim level offers the TZ230XY1252 electric motor from Hasco Group for 300 kW (402 hp). It adopts a ternary NMC battery from CATL.

The performance variant of the IM LS6 offers two electric motors (the TZ180XS0952 from UAES and the TZ230XY1252 from Hasco) with a combined power output of 500 kW (670 hp). A CATL-made ternary NMC battery sends power to these e-motors. The old LS6 offers several powertrain options with a peak power range of 216 – 579 kW.

IM LS6 EREV

However, the biggest highlight of the updated IM LS6 is the EREV powertrain system. Extended-range electric vehicles have become a growing trend in China. A lot of automakers enter this segment with newly developed products in a struggle for a place under the sun. And the IM Motors isn’t an exception to the rule.

The EREV variant of the IM LS6 got the 15FNE petrol-powered turbocharged engine for 114 kW (153 hp). It doesn’t transfer any torque to the wheels, sending power to a battery and an electric motor. The IM LS6 EREV is available with a single e-motor in the rear axle. Its peak power output is 230 kW (308 hp). This car has two battery options made by the SAIC-CATL joint venture: LFP and ternary NMC.

The IM LS6 EREV can speed up to 200 km/h. Its curb weight lies in a 2,345 – 2,350 kg range. After reaching the Chinese market, this vehicle will compete with the Luxeed R7 from Chery and Huawei. The latter car starts at 249,800 yuan (34,670 USD). However, the IM LS6 is a seemingly cheaper model. The electric variant of its old variant started at 209,900 yuan (29,130 USD). The EREV variant of this car can start below the 200,000 yuan (27,760 USD) mark. Therefore, the IM LS6 EREV has a chance to become a hot seller in China.