In a significant move towards advancing electric vehicle technology, IM, the new intelligent Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) brand from MG's parent company SAIC, is set to unveil its latest creation at the 2024 Geneva Motor Show. This announcement comes alongside the world premiere of the all-new MG3 Hybrid, marking a notable event for the automotive industry.
IM, an acronym for Intelligent Mobility, signifies SAIC's commitment to exploring innovative avenues in the electric vehicle space, supported by collaborations with research and development specialists Zhangjiang Hi-Tech and e-commerce giants Alibaba. This venture began in 2021 with the introduction of the IML7, followed by the addition of mid-sized and coupe models to the brand's line-up last year.
The Geneva Motor Show will witness the global debut of the IM L6 saloon, a premium electric vehicle that promises to offer cutting-edge technology and market leading performance. With an expected price tag of just under £40,000 for the UK market, the IM L6 positions itself as a competitive option in the premium electric vehicle sector.
IM's strategy for its European launch in 2025 is to target the premium market, focusing on executive saloons and larger SUVs. The brand aims to distinguish itself through a commitment to advanced driving assistance and control technologies, intelligent and connected services, and state-of-the-art electric powertrains.
The IM L6, in particular, is set to redefine performance standards in the electric vehicle market. It boasts an impressive acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in under three seconds and offers a remarkable range, with two specifications delivering over 375 miles and 500 miles. These projections are based on the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) – with the longer range attributed to the use of a solid-state battery and the shorter to a lithium-ion battery.
Depending on the technologies used, it's possible that solid state battery cars can pick up close to a full charge in less than 15 minutes and a 100+ miles charge in under 5 minutes. Either of these outcomes would put the IM L6 in a completely different category from most of the EVs in the market today.
Based only on the numbers we have seen from MG so far, the IM L6 would need a 440 kW charger in order to fill the battery in 15 minutes. If all of the early details pan out, this would represent a generational leap in EV charging/range.
Both the MG3 Hybrid and the IM L6 will be showcased at the Geneva Motor Show, with their reveal scheduled for 10:30 CET on Monday, 26 February, at MG's stand.
The introduction of products like the IM L6 is anticipated to challenge existing major brands in the electric vehicle market, especially as companies like Mercedes and BMW progress towards a more sustainable future.
MG Motor, established in 1924, has a rich history that began with the MG 14/28 Super Sports car, created by Cecil Kimber. Today, the company is renowned for its MG4 EV, a hatchback that has received multiple awards and exemplifies MG's dedication to innovative, technologically advanced, and exhilarating electric vehicles. MG reinforces its commitment to quality through a generous 7-year/80,000-mile manufacturer's warranty for every vehicle.
Right now, you can get into the baseline MG4 for less than £100 a month with a hefty deposit. For those who want Lamborghini-levels of acceleration, the MG4 XPower variant can be picked up on a personal lease from £299 a month.