IM LS8 Pre-Sale: Tech-Packed Large SUV with Steer-by-Wire for Hong Kong's Tight Streets

On March 26, IM Motors officially opened pre-sales for the LS8, with four variants priced between RMB 271,800 and RMB 321,800, and a limited-time promotion offering prices from RMB 259,800 to RMB 309,800. The new model features the Star Range-Extender system, steer-by-wire, Lingxi digital chassis 3.0, 520-line LiDAR, and NVIDIA Thor chip. It offers 430km of pure electric range and 1,605km of combined range, with official launch set for April 16. Early pre-sale data shows over 10,000 small orders in 45 minutes. For Hong Kong users, this raises a key question: With a 5.08-meter length, 3,060mm wheelbase, and a turning radius of just 4.85 meters thanks to steer-by-wire and rear-wheel steering, could this become the agile large SUV that Hong Kong has been waiting for?

Steer-by-Wire + Rear-Wheel Steering: A Game-Changer for Large SUV Maneuverability

The LS8's standout feature is its steer-by-wire system combined with rear-wheel steering. The steering wheel requires only a half-turn to lock, and with bi-directional 24° rear-wheel steering, this 5.08-meter SUV achieves a turning radius of just 4.85 meters—more agile than a compact hatchback. For Hong Kong users, this is invaluable for navigating tight u-turns in Kowloon Tong or maneuvering in Central's parking garages. The system also features aviation-grade triple redundancy, ensuring steering capability even if the front wheels fail.

Dimensions and Space: A Large Five/Six-Seat SUV with 3,060mm Wheelbase

The LS8 measures 5,085mm in length, 2,000mm in width, 1,807mm in height, with a 3,060mm wheelbase, placing it firmly in the large luxury SUV segment. The trunk can hold six 28-inch suitcases, and the interior width accommodates a golf bag sideways. There are nine storage spaces, including a 9.2L hidden drawer under the second-row seats.

Range and Charging: 430km EV Range + 1,605km Combined Range

Powered by the Star Range-Extender system (1.5T engine + electric motor), the LS8 delivers 390kW and 670Nm of torque, with a 4-second 0-100km/h time. The 430km pure electric range covers a week of commuting, while the 1,605km combined range eliminates range anxiety for longer trips.

Intelligent Driving: 520-Line LiDAR + NVIDIA Thor Chip

Standard 520-line LiDAR with a 300m detection range and the NVIDIA Thor chip provide L3-level perception for L2 ADAS scenarios, ensuring hardware readiness for future regulatory changes.

Intelligent Cockpit: 27.1-Inch Display + 15.6-Inch Passenger Screen

The interior features a 27.1-inch 5K central display, a 15.6-inch 3K passenger screen, and a 21.5-inch 4K rear-seat entertainment screen. Second-row seats offer electric recline, folding tables, and extendable leg rests.

Hong Kong Perspective: A New Agile Option for Large SUVs

The LS8 addresses a key Hong Kong pain point: maneuverability. Its 4.85m turning radius transforms a large SUV into an agile urban vehicle. With 3,060mm of wheelbase and 1,605km of range, it balances space and practicality. As a range-extender EV, it mitigates charging infrastructure concerns.

Personal Opinion: An Agile Answer for Large SUVs

The LS8's combination of steer-by-wire, rear-wheel steering, and spaciousness offers a compelling solution for Hong Kong's unique driving environment. It demonstrates that large SUVs can be both spacious and maneuverable. For Hong Kong buyers, it represents a promising option. The pre-sale launch is a date worth watching. When RHD versions eventually arrive, the technology validated in the mainland will be a powerful reference. This is a development that could reshape the large SUV landscape in Hong Kong.