Auto manufacturer IM Motors set to unveil an extended-range electric system on August 1, marking their entrance into the growing hybrid vehicle market, like other EV makers before them.
IM Motors to Unveil Extended-Range Electric Vehicle Technology
SAIC Motor's electric vehicle unit, IM Motors, is set to unveil its extended-range system on August 1, marking a significant step towards tapping into a larger market. The event will begin at 7 pm Beijing time.
This new technology, termed "Ultra Extended Range," uses high-capacity batteries and a combustion engine generator to recharge the battery when depleted, enabling an ultra-long driving range beyond what conventional electric vehicles offer. This approach combines electric power with a range-extending combustion engine to significantly reduce range anxiety, targeting drivers who want high-usage electric vehicles with extended mileage on a single charge.
The technology will debut on two models launching in 2025: an updated IM LS6 mid-size SUV and a new six-seat flagship model IM LS9, scheduled for release in the third and fourth quarters. These vehicles are classified as electric range-extended vehicles (EREVs) that integrate a battery-centric powertrain with engine-generated electricity to extend range.
While other hybrid vehicle makers and EV startups in China have been active in the hybrid/EREV segment, IM Motors is a relatively new entrant. This marks a strategic move by IM Motors to expand beyond pure electric vehicles and compete in a broader market including hybrid vehicles, a segment other Chinese startups and legacy automakers are also targeting.
As of the current information, the IM LS6 SUV and the IM LS9 are not equipped with the extended-range technology. However, IM Motors plans to launch two extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) models this year, positioning itself competitively but newer than many established hybrid and EV players in China.
Exact numeric range values for IM Motors’ extended-range models were not disclosed in the sources. Nevertheless, the description emphatically highlights the ultra-long driving range enabled by high-capacity batteries paired with the extended-range system.
In the broader context, Chinese automakers are recognised for leading innovation in electric and intelligent vehicles, advanced driver assistance systems, and digitalization, establishing strong competitiveness versus international peers. IM Motors, backed by SAIC, benefits from this innovation ecosystem and aims to compete with both domestic and global players.
However, precise comparisons of IM Motors’ ultra-long driving range capability versus other hybrid or extended-range EV offerings from Chinese startups (such as NIO, BYD, or Leapmotor) were not detailed in the search results.
Table Comparison:
| Aspect | IM Motors Extended-Range Technology | Comparison in China Hybrid/EV Market | |----------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------| | Technology | High-capacity battery + combustion engine generator (EREV) | Emerging segment for IM Motors; others (NIO, BYD) focus on BEVs and hybrids | | Driving Range Capability | Ultra-long driving range enabled via range extender | Strong competition; no direct numeric range comparison available | | Models | IM LS6 (mid-size SUV), IM LS9 (6-seat flagship SUV) | Other brands offer multiple EV and hybrid models | | Launch Timeline | Q3/Q4 2025 | Other startups active but IM Motors newest in range-extended vehicles | | Innovation Status | High innovation leverage from SAIC and China’s EV industry | China seen as highly innovative globally in EV technology |
In conclusion, IM Motors’ ultra-long driving range capability is based on a new range-extender system launching in 2025 that positions it competitively but newer than many established hybrid and EV players in China; exact range figures and detailed comparative metrics are not publicly available yet.
- IM Motors' upcoming extended-range technology, known as "Ultra Extended Range," is set to debut on two models in 2025, aiming to reduce range anxiety for high-usage electric vehicle drivers.
- This technology combines high-capacity batteries with a combustion engine generator to recharge the battery when depleted, enabling an ultra-long driving range.
- The IM LS6 mid-size SUV and IM LS9 six-seat flagship model are scheduled for release in the third and fourth quarters of 2025, respectively, and are classified as electric range-extended vehicles (EREVs).
- While other Chinese hybrids and EV startups have been active in the hybrid/EREV segment, IM Motors is a relatively new entrant, positioning itself to compete in a broader market including hybrid vehicles.
- IM Motors plans to launch two extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) models this year, aiming to position itself competitively but newer than many established hybrid and EV players in China.
- IM Motors' extended-range technology is inspired by China's innovative automotive and technology industry, aiming to compete with both domestic and global players.
- NIO, BYD, and Leapmotor are among the Chinese startups focusing on battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hybrids, while IM Motors is entering the EREV market.
- The IM LS6 SUV and the IM LS9 are not currently equipped with the extended-range technology, although range figures are not publicly available.
- Chinese automakers are renowned for their innovation in electric and intelligent vehicles, advanced driver assistance systems, and digitalization, positioning China as a global leader in EV technology.
- Precise comparisons of IM Motors’ ultra-long driving range capability versus other hybrid or extended-range EV offerings from Chinese startups have not been detailed, highlighting the need for further analysis and comparison in the EV market.
