IM LS6 Extended-Range SUV: Can “Big Gas + Big Battery + Ultra-Fast Charging” Finally End Range Anxiety?
When it comes to extending the range of electric vehicles, automakers typically pursue two strategies: faster charging or larger batteries. Both have their merits—quick top-ups reduce downtime, while big battery packs deliver peace of mind on long trips. But what if a single vehicle could combine the best of both worlds, achieving an effect greater than the sum of its parts?
With the launch of the IM LS6 Extended-Range (EREV), currently open for pre-sale in China, we may be looking at one of the most compelling answers to date.
Why Extended-Range Powertrains Still Matter
Extended-range EVs (EREVs) have often been misunderstood as “burning gas just to make electricity,” but their strengths are becoming clearer over time. Compared to conventional combustion cars, they offer smooth and responsive electric driving. Versus parallel plug-in hybrids, they benefit from simpler layouts and packaging flexibility. And against pure EVs, they provide fuel-based backup energy and reliable cabin heating in winter.
It’s this unique balance that has given EREVs staying power, with adoption steadily growing year after year.
The latest trend? Moving from “dual energy” (gas + electric) to “big gas + big electric”, maximizing both sides of the equation.
LS6 Extended Range: Numbers That Impress
The IM LS6 Extended-Range pushes boundaries in the mid-to-large SUV segment:
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Battery Pack: 66 kWh CATL Super Iron Lithium MAX pack (same as the ultra-luxury Zunjie S800).
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Pure-Electric Range: ~450 km (CLTC).
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Combined Range (full gas + full charge): Over 1,500 km.
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Charging Speed: 900V high-voltage SiC platform, capable of adding 310 km in just 15 minutes.
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Engine-Generator Unit: 1.5T “Stellar” range extender with 114 kW max output and 43% thermal efficiency, among the best in class.
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Generator Efficiency: 97%, with every liter of gasoline producing about 3.5 kWh of electricity.
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Motor: Rear-mounted 800V electric drive unit with an expected peak output of 230 kW, ensuring strong performance.
| Feature |
IM LS6 EREV |
Li Auto L9 (EREV) |
AITO M9 (EREV) |
Tesla Model X (EV) |
BYD Tang EV |
| Battery Capacity |
66 kWh (CATL Super Iron MAX) |
~44.5 kWh |
~42 kWh |
100 kWh |
108 kWh |
| Pure-Electric Range (CLTC) |
~450 km |
~250 km |
~230 km |
~600 km |
~635 km |
| Combined Range (Gas + EV) |
1500+ km |
~1100 km |
~1200 km |
~600 km |
~635 km |
| Range Extender / Engine |
1.5T, 114 kW, 43% eff. |
1.5T, 113 kW |
1.5T, 112 kW |
❌ None |
❌ None |
| Charging Speed |
900V, 310 km in 15 min |
400V, slower |
400V, slower |
250 kW Supercharging |
170 kW |
| Motor Output |
~230 kW (rear) |
~330 kW AWD |
~365 kW AWD |
Up to 493 kW |
~380 kW |
| Key Advantage |
Best combined range, ultra-fast charging |
Spacious, family focus |
Luxury tech & Huawei integration |
Strong EV-only range |
High battery capacity |
| Weak Spot |
No AWD yet |
Limited charging speed |
Heavier, pricier |
Range anxiety for long trips |
Range drop in winter |
With these numbers, the LS6 isn’t just practical—it’s redefining expectations of what an EREV can be.
Ending Range Anxiety Once and for All?
For most drivers, 450 km of pure EV driving already covers daily commutes, weekly errands, and even regional road trips. Add in over 1,000 km of gasoline-assisted range, and suddenly range anxiety feels irrelevant.
Even under demanding conditions—say, an emergency trip covering hundreds of kilometers—the LS6 minimizes downtime thanks to its ultra-fast charging and efficient range extender. Few vehicles on the market today can match this dual-source flexibility.
The Role of Charging in Daily Life
While the LS6 can go the distance, many owners will rely on regular charging at home or work to minimize fuel usage and maximize the EV driving experience. This is where EVSE solutions come into play:
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Level 1 (120V) charging – Using a standard outlet and a portable EVSE, drivers can top up overnight for short commutes.
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Level 2 (240V) charging – With a home or workplace wallbox, charging is faster and more convenient, keeping the 66 kWh pack ready for extended electric-only driving.
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Portable chargers – For drivers who split time between multiple residences or who road trip often, compact portable EVSE devices ensure charging flexibility anywhere.
The takeaway? Even with a range extender, convenient daily charging infrastructure is key to reducing fuel consumption and enjoying the full benefits of electrified driving.
Smarter Than Just “More Energy”
The LS6 Extended-Range SUV doesn’t just rely on brute-force energy storage. Its intelligent engineering—from high-efficiency power electronics to waste-heat battery conditioning—proves that the future of range anxiety relief isn’t about choosing gas or electricity. It’s about seamlessly blending both, supported by smart charging solutions.
For users seeking fewer hassles, lower costs, and maximum driving freedom, the LS6 EREV makes a powerful case: sometimes, the best solution really is “big gas + big battery + ultra-fast charging.”
