IM LS8 Range-Extended Electric SUV Launched with 800V Fast Charging and AI Cockpit

IM Motors introduced its LS8 flagship range-extended electric SUV on April 16, expanding its electrified portfolio in China. The model is offered in both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations, with four variants priced between CNY 249,800 and CNY 299,800. Designed as a premium offering, the LS8 integrates extended-range capability with high-end digital and intelligent driving technologies, positioning itself in the competitive large SUV segment.

Design, Dimensions, and Seating Configuration

The LS8 is available in five-seat and six-seat layouts, catering to both family and executive mobility requirements. The SUV measures 5,085mm in length, 2,000mm in width, and 1,807mm in height, supported by a long 3,060mm wheelbase that enhances cabin space and ride stability. The proportions indicate a strong focus on interior comfort while maintaining a commanding road presence typical of flagship SUVs in this category.

Powertrain and Range Performance

The LS8 comes equipped with the Hengxing super range extender system, combining a Zephyr 1.5T REEV engine with silicon carbide-based high-performance motors. The rear-wheel-drive variants deliver 230kW of power and 430Nm of torque, achieving 0–100km/h acceleration in 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 190km/h. These models feature a 52kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, offering a CLTC electric-only range of 355km and a total combined range of 1,573km.

4WD Variant Performance and Battery

The four-wheel-drive versions significantly enhance performance with a combined output of 390kW and 670Nm torque. Acceleration improves to 4.7 seconds from 0–100km/h, with a top speed of 220km/h. These variants use a larger 66kWh ternary lithium battery, delivering a CLTC electric range of 430km and a combined range of 1,605km. Both configurations are built on an 800V ultra-fast charging platform, enabling rapid energy replenishment.

Charging Capabilities and Efficiency

The LS8’s 800V architecture enables fast charging from 10% to 80% state of charge in just 19 minutes for RWD and 16.5 minutes for 4WD variants. Additionally, the system supports quick top-ups, delivering up to 230km range in 15 minutes for RWD models and 292km for 4WD versions. This capability significantly enhances usability for long-distance travel and reduces charging downtime.

Digital Cockpit and AI Integration

The LS8 features the IM AIOS intelligent cockpit powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon SA8295P chipset from Qualcomm. The system integrates the IM Ultra Agent, supported by the Qwen large model, enabling advanced human-machine interaction and intelligent control features. The cockpit is designed to deliver seamless connectivity, enhanced responsiveness, and a personalized user experience through AI-driven functionalities.

Advanced Driver Assistance and Autonomous Technology

For intelligent driving, the LS8 is equipped with LiDAR, ultrasonic radars, and advanced sensing hardware. The system supports features such as Adaptive Cruise Control and can be optionally upgraded to the IM AD system, with future readiness for the L4-oriented IM AD ZETA platform. Developed in collaboration with Momenta, the system uses a one-stage end-to-end reinforcement learning model and is powered by the Nvidia Thor chip from Nvidia. It enables advanced capabilities including Highway and City NOA, Door-to-Door navigation, and traffic gesture recognition.

IM LS8 Key Specifications Overview

The IM LS8 represents a strategic move by IM Motors to blend extended-range electric technology with high-performance architecture and AI-driven intelligence. With strong range figures, ultra-fast charging, and advanced ADAS capabilities, the model is positioned to compete in the premium electric SUV segment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the IM LS8 electric SUV unique compared to other EVs?
The IM LS8 stands out due to its combination of range-extender technology, 800V fast-charging architecture, and advanced AI-powered cockpit and ADAS systems. Unlike conventional EVs, it integrates a super range extender that significantly increases total driving range while maintaining strong electric-only capability. Additionally, features like LiDAR-based sensing, Nvidia-powered computing, and reinforcement learning-based driving systems enhance both safety and automation, making it a technologically advanced offering in the premium SUV segment.

What is the real-world usability of the IM LS8’s range and charging system?
The LS8 offers practical usability with a combined range of up to 1,605km, reducing dependency on frequent charging during long trips. Its 800V system enables rapid charging, achieving 10% to 80% in under 20 minutes, which aligns with real-world travel needs. The ability to gain nearly 300km range in just 15 minutes further improves convenience, making it suitable for both urban and highway driving scenarios without range anxiety.