IM Motors L6 to offer semi-solid state battery

IM MOTORS has announced further details of its forthcoming L6 sedan, the brand’s fourth all-electric model to arrive with impressive specifications, thanks in no small part to its innovative semi-solid state battery (SSSB) pack.

The SSSB pack will offer the L6 a driving range of over 1000km, says IM Motors, the model also delivering other unique features including a ‘crabwalk’ style parking feature and so-called intelligent driving chassis.

“Equipped with a quasi-900V ultra-fast charging lightyear solid-state battery, achieving both endurance, safety and fast charging,” said IM Motors via Chinese social media site Weibo.

Part owned by SAIC (the parent of LDV, MG Motors, Roewe, and others) and Chinese online shopping group Alibaba, IM Motors was conceived in 2020 as a rival to established market players.

In the time since, it has launched three models in the Chinese domestic market: the L7 sedan, LS7 SUV, and LS6 SUV. The L6 sedan is its fourth.

The L6 draws its battery technology from a joint venture formed between SAIC and QingTao Energy, the duo promising full solid-state battery technology in the very near future. For now, however, the SSSB pack will deliver to market capabilities many EV players are still grappling to perfect.

Officially launched in China this week, the IM Motor L6 sedan will be available in three trim grades: Max Standard Edition (RMB230,000/$A50,365), L6 Performance Edition (RMB299,900/$A66,495), and Max Lightyear Edition (RMB330,000/$A72,260).

GoAuto understands that only the flagship Max Lightyear Edition features the 130kWh SSSB pack, with other variants receiving traditional lithium-ion packs rated at 90kWh and 100kWh respectively. Range for the ‘lesser’ variants is quoted at 700km and 770km respectively (CLTC).

Other specification details will be announced shortly.

Additional features for the new model include a cockpit bristling with the latest in electronic technology and powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8295P processor. A roof-mounted LiDAR array supports the L6’s advanced ADAS functions, which precede IM Motor’s driverless technology, due in showrooms from Q4 this year.

Given Australian preference for SUV models, it is unlikely the IM Motor L6 will be offered here. However, GoAuto understands the LS6 SUV is possible starter, with an MG Motor executive stating, “We have a range of cars under consideration for Australia and New Zealand, including the IM Motors LS6 (SUV)”.

“The process is quite a complex process around why a specific variant is selected or not selected, so as we do with all our range, we will proactively work with our engineers locally and internationally as well as product, marketing, sales teams, dealer network and customer feedback to understand and cater our offering to their ongoing needs and wants.”