IM LS9 SUV: A 673hp Luxury Hybrid Ready to Shake Up the Market

IM Motors, the rising Chinese automaker formed through a joint venture between SAIC and Alibaba, has unveiled its brand new LS9 model, an extended range electric SUV that blends luxury with cutting edge technology. Scheduled for official launch in the fourth quarter of this year, the IM LS9 is positioned to compete directly with top rivals like the Li L9 and Denza N9, offering bold styling, intelligent features, and a powerful hybrid drivetrain that combines gasoline and electric performance.

Bold Exterior Design Blending Luxury and Tech

The IM LS9 stands out with a futuristic and streamlined exterior that gives it an unmistakable road presence. Its front fascia is fully enclosed, featuring raised lines across the hood and a T-shaped LED light bar that spans the entire width, delivering a high tech, dynamic visual identity. Chrome accents are generously applied around the front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and window surrounds, highlighting the SUV's upscale appeal.

Additional details like flush door handles, a panoramic glass roof, and a roof mounted lidar system further reinforce the LS9’s advanced design language. These elements are expected to support smart driving capabilities developed in partnership with the autonomous driving tech company Momenta. IM Motors also offers a half steering wheel option, emphasizing a forward thinking design philosophy that aligns with the evolving landscape of intelligent electric mobility.

Spacious Interior and Comfort Oriented Layout

The LS9 features a 2+2+2 seating configuration, ensuring a high level of comfort for all passengers in a cabin tailored for premium family travel. With generous dimensions measuring 5279 mm in length, 2000 mm in width, and 1806 mm in height, along with a long wheelbase of 3160 mm, the SUV offers an exceptionally roomy interior, particularly enhancing legroom in the second and third rows.

Weighing approximately 2695 kg, the LS9 carries a confident road presence, further supported by a range of wheel options that span from 20 inches up to 22 inches. This allows buyers to customize the SUV's performance and appearance according to their personal preferences.

Smart Hybrid Power and Advanced Driving Experience

The LS9 combines a 1.5 liter gasoline engine, which acts as a range extender, generating 153 horsepower, with two electric motors, one on the front axle producing 215 hp and another on the rear delivering 308 hp. Together, the system delivers a total output of 673 horsepower, offering powerful acceleration and a top speed of 220 km/h. This configuration ensures confident handling and stability under various driving conditions.

The SUV is equipped with CATL’s Freevoy battery, capable of providing up to 450 kilometers of pure electric range, making the LS9 a practical and efficient choice for long distance driving without frequent charging stops. It also features IM Motors’ third generation X-by Wire technology, which enables full electronic control of all four wheels. This includes front and rear steering and intelligent torque distribution to each wheel, ensuring precise handling and enhanced stability even at high speeds or on winding roads.

Global Ambitions Sparked from the Chinese Market

As the official launch date approaches, IM Motors is preparing to introduce the LS9 into the competitive electric SUV segment, relying on a mix of futuristic design, spacious interior, advanced technologies, and a high performance hybrid powertrain. The company clearly sees this model as a gateway to new markets, especially in the GCC region, where demand for luxury electric vehicles is steadily growing.

If IM Motors chooses to expand LS9 availability beyond China, the SUV is expected to attract strong interest in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, thanks to its balance of premium features and cutting edge tech without compromising the power and practicality that drivers highly value.