IM Motors LS8 Extended-Range SUV Launched with 1,605 km Range in China

IM Motors, the electric vehicle division of SAIC Motor, has introduced the LS8 extended-range SUV in China, expanding its premium electrified portfolio. Positioned in the mid-to-large SUV segment, the LS8 enters a highly competitive market with a starting price of 249,800 yuan ($36,600). The model quickly demonstrated strong market traction, securing over 8,000 confirmed orders within just 60 minutes of launch. Deliveries are scheduled to begin on April 20, signaling aggressive market entry timing.

Variant Lineup and Competitive Positioning

The LS8 is available in four extended-range electric vehicle variants priced at 249,800 yuan, 269,800 yuan, 279,800 yuan, and 299,800 yuan. This pricing strategy positions it competitively against rivals such as Leapmotor D19 and Volkswagen ID. UNYX 08, both introduced on the same day. The LS8 is widely regarded as a more compact alternative to the previously launched LS9, enabling IM Motors to target a broader customer base seeking premium yet practical electrified SUVs.

Dimensions, Platform, and Powertrain

The LS8 measures 5,085 mm in length, 2,000 mm in width, and 1,807 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,060 mm, placing it firmly in the mid-to-large SUV category. It features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine acting as a range extender, combined with an 800-volt ultra-fast charging architecture. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration integrates a 66-kWh ternary lithium battery pack, delivering a pure electric range of up to 430 kilometers. When combined with a full fuel tank, the total driving range extends to 1,605 kilometers.

Advanced Chassis and Driving Capabilities

The LS8 comes equipped with the Lingxi digital chassis, incorporating steer-by-wire technology and rear-wheel steering. These features significantly improve maneuverability and handling, especially in urban environments. Despite its size, the SUV achieves a turning radius of just 4.85 meters, enhancing usability in tight city conditions. The model is offered in both five-seat and six-seat configurations, catering to family-oriented use cases.

AI Integration and Smart Cockpit Evolution

The vehicle integrates a 520-channel LiDAR system and is powered by the Nvidia Thor chip, enabling high-performance assisted driving capabilities. Inside the cabin, the IM Ultra Agent 1.0 system leverages Alibaba's Qwen AI model to enhance user interaction and personalization. The growing importance of AI in automotive cabins is further highlighted by developments from ByteDance, which is working on a customized smart cockpit using its Doubao AI model in collaboration with Seres Group.

Key Specifications of IM Motors LS8

The following table summarizes the core technical specifications of the LS8 extended-range SUV.

IM Motors LS8 Technical Specifications Overview

Market Expansion Strategy

The LS8 represents a strategic expansion for IM Motors following the LS9 launch in November 2025. By introducing a slightly smaller yet feature-rich model, the company is strengthening its position in the extended-range SUV segment. The strong initial order intake indicates rising consumer interest in EREV technology, especially in markets like China where long-range flexibility and charging convenience remain key purchase factors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range and key technology of the IM Motors LS8 SUV?
The IM Motors LS8 offers a combined driving range of up to 1,605 kilometers by combining a battery system with a range-extending engine. It uses a 66-kWh battery pack delivering up to 430 km of pure electric range, supported by an 800V fast-charging platform. The vehicle also integrates advanced technologies such as steer-by-wire, rear-wheel steering, LiDAR-based assisted driving, and an AI-powered smart cockpit for enhanced driving and user experience.