The European Electric Vehicle Market has watched a constant evolution, focusing on increasingly efficient and more autonomy models. Brands such as Tesla, Volkswagen and Hyundai lead the offer, with proposals already consolidated with consumers. However, the arrival of Chinese manufacturers has begun to change the balance of the segment.
The Tesla Model 3 Long Range Dual Motor offers 629 km of WLTP autonomy for about 48,990 €. Volkswagen ID.7 Pro reaches 621 km WLTP and is available from 48,785 €. And recently a new competitor emerged in the electric vehicle market.
Despite the advances, none of these models surpass the 700 km barrier in WLTP cycle. And it is precisely here that a new competitor comes from China.
It is an electric car with semi-solid battery that promises significantly higher autonomy, positioning itself at the same price level.
Chinese bet on high technology and low cost
This new model, developed by the IM brand, belonging to the Saic group, is part of a 123.7 kWh semi -solid battery.
This system allows to reach 1,002 km of autonomy in the CLTC cycle, which will correspond to about 870 km in WLTP standard, according to the frog. It is the Chinese electric car with a larger range semi -solid battery currently announced in the market.
The same source states that the battery, built in collaboration with Qingtao Energy, has a high energy density and a weight of 621 kg. Charging is made at 900 V and allows powers up to 400 kW, enabling 400 km of autonomy in just 12 minutes.
Performance and Intelligent Driving
The vehicle in question is named IM L6 Lightyear. It is a segment F Bold with Coupé profile and rounded lines, measuring 4,931 mm long, 1,960 mm wide and 1,474 mm high, with a distance between 2,950 mm axes. The rear features a ‘duckbot’ finish.
According to the SAPO website, it is equipped with two electric motors and whole -wheel drive, with a total power of 579 kW (776hp). The rear wheels are directional, which allows ‘crab’ type maneuvers, facilitating parking.
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Interior with screens and conduction assistance level 3
The IM L6 Lightyear cabin includes a ‘yoke’ steering wheel that cannot be replaced, and a 26.3 -inch front screen, one of the largest on the electric cars market.
There is also an optional 10 -inch screen for the passenger and a configuration panel between the front seats. The infentation system is managed by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 processor.
Autonomous driving is also among the highlights. The vehicle is prepared to reach level 3 SAE, allowing it to conduct autonomously on sections such as secondary roads or parking parks, thanks to the NXP S32G processor.
Direct comparison with market leaders
With 870 km WLTP planned, IM L6 Lightyear is far above the autonomies offered by the main competitors of the European market. The Chinese electric with semi-solid battery stands out not only for its capacity, but also for the price.
According to, the model is on sale in China for 345,900 ¥ (Yuan), about 45,000 € at the current exchange rate. A competitive value in the market of electric vehicles and lower than various versions of European and American competitors with substantially smaller autonomies.
Arrival in Europe under the aegis of MG
IM is one of the brands of the Saic group, which also has MG, Maxus and Roewe. According to the same source, it is through MG that IM L6 may enter Europe, although there is no official confirmation yet. MG is already present in several European markets, including Portugal, and may bridge this new proposal.
However, the same publication recalls that MG was one of the most affected brands by recent fees applied to Chinese power outbreaks, which could impact the final price of IM L6 on the European market.
A new reference in the electric vehicle segment?
With state -of -the -art technology, wide autonomy and competitive price, IM L6 Lightyear emerges as a milestone in the evolution of electric cars. The entry of a Chinese electrical with semi -solid battery in this value range may require established manufacturers to review their strategies.
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