IM Motors reveals LS9 Hyper as world’s first production SUV with four-wheel electronic steering
SAIC‘s IM Motors has officially unveiled images of its flagship SUV, the LS9 Hyper, on January 28. This top-tier variant of the LS9 series introduces technology as the world’s first production SUV equipped with a four-wheel all-electronic steering system and a triple-motor vectoring all-wheel drive system.
The exterior design maintains consistency with the current IM LS9 model, the Hyper variant is differentiated by exclusive “HYPER” badging on the D-pillars and rear of the vehicle.
Dimensionally, the IM LS9 Hyper measures 5279mm in length, 2000mm in width, and 1806mm in height, with by a 3160mm wheelbase. As a full-size SUV, it achieves a space utilization ratio of 86%. Customers can select from various wheel options, including 20, 21, and 22-inch designs, available in both multi-spoke and mirror-finish disc styles.
Inside, the LS9 Hyper features IM Motors’ latest interior design language, most notably characterized by a three-screen setup for front occupants. The driver’s digital instrument panel and central infotainment screen are integrated into a single 27.1-inch unit with 5K resolution. The passenger side features a concave “bay-style” design housing a separate 15.6-inch 3K MiniLED entertainment screen.
For advanced driver assistance, the LS9 Hyper comes equipped with a 520-line laser radar system and Nvidia’s Thor chip. The high-level autonomous driving capabilities are powered by Momenta’s Flywheel large model, supporting features such as urban and highway NOA (Navigation on Autopilot) and automatic parking functions.
The vehicle’s “Lingxi” (Lizard) digital chassis 3.0 offers bidirectional 24-degree intelligent four-wheel steering, achieving a turning radius of 4.95 meters. Additionally, it incorporates the MK C2 electronic braking system, enabling 100% braking energy recovery, alongside a 150mm travel closed dual-chamber air suspension system.
In terms of powertrain, the LS9 Hyper utilizes a 1.5T range extender with a maximum output of 114 kilowatts. This works in conjunction with a three-motor system (one front, two rear) delivering peak outputs of 160 kW (215 hp) for the front motor and 195 kW (261 hp) for each rear motor. The vehicle is fitted with a 65.9 kWh ternary lithium battery pack, providing a pure electric range of 308 kilometers under WLTC conditions.
