IM Motors is set to launch pre-sales for its updated LS6 SUV on September 10, introducing a fully steer-by-wire chassis to the segment. The company claims the new model will bring ‘aviation-grade safety’ to SUVs priced around $29,687 (~AUD 41,537). This marks the latest product update under IM Motors’ ‘NEXT·2028’ strategy.
New-Generation LS6: Steer-by-Wire and Aviation-Inspired Design
IM Motors, the electric vehicle brand of SAIC Motor (SSE: 600104), has announced that pre-sales for the all-new LS6 will begin on September 10. The company describes the new model as a ‘large five-seat SUV with a fully steer-by-wire chassis,’ positioning it as a significant upgrade in its lineup.
According to IM Motors, the LS6 will ‘usher in an era of aviation-grade safety for SUVs priced around $29,687 (~AUD 41,537).’ The brand compares its next-generation fully steer-by-wire chassis to an aircraft’s fly-by-wire flight control system, emphasizing its ‘aviation-derived’ philosophy and referring to the SUV as a ‘land-based A320.’
Key Features and Technology
All variants of the new LS6 will come standard with the NEO powertrain architecture, a fully steer-by-wire chassis, the IM Claw AI agent, and a seating package called ‘Super First Class.’
Images of a test vehicle’s interior circulated on Chinese social media last month, showing no steering wheel in the driver’s position, highlighting the company’s steer-by-wire ambitions.
IM Motors’ Product Strategy and Market Position
The all-new LS6 is a major product under IM Motors’ ‘NEXT·2028’ strategy. The company said it was developed with an ‘aviation-derived’ philosophy and has previously referred to it as a ‘land-based A320.’
The LS6 is a key sales pillar for IM Motors, initially launched in October 2023. The previous-generation LS6 was introduced on September 10, 2025, with a starting price of $29,375 (~AUD 41,101), and it was the first to offer an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) option.
Competitive Landscape
The family SUV market priced around $29,687 (~AUD 41,537) is one of the most fiercely contested segments in China. The IM LS6 will compete with models such as the Tesla Model Y, Xiaomi YU7, and a wide range of domestic plug-in hybrid and EREV vehicles.
IM Motors recently launched the IM LS8 EREV SUV in April with a starting price of $37,079 (~AUD 51,880), attracting over 8,000 firm orders within 60 minutes. The new IM L6 sedan, launched on August 28, also features a fully steer-by-wire chassis and bidirectional rear-wheel steering of up to 18 degrees.
Why this matters
The introduction of a fully steer-by-wire chassis in a mass-market SUV signals a significant technological shift in the segment. IM Motors’ focus on ‘aviation-grade safety’ and advanced digital features could set new benchmarks for safety and driving experience in the competitive Chinese SUV market.
With pricing around $29,687 (~AUD 41,537), the LS6 targets a broad consumer base and intensifies competition among both domestic and international brands.
What this means for buyers
Buyers interested in advanced vehicle technology and safety features may find the new LS6 appealing, especially with its steer-by-wire system and AI-driven functions. Those considering a family SUV in the $29,687 (~AUD 41,537) price range should watch for the official pre-sales launch on September 10 and compare the LS6’s features with established competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Xiaomi YU7.
Key Specs
- Pre-Sales Launch Date: September 10, 2026
- Chassis: Fully steer-by-wire
- Powertrain: NEO powertrain architecture (standard on all variants)
- AI Features: IM Claw AI agent
- Seating: Super First Class package
- Starting Price (Previous Generation): $29,375 (~AUD 41,101)
- Target Price Range: $29,687 (~AUD 41,537)
- Competitors: Tesla Model Y, Xiaomi YU7, domestic plug-in hybrid and EREV models
