New EV battery changes everything

An upstart car maker has beaten some of the biggest names in the game, including Tesla, Toyota and BYD to dramatically change the way we look at and use EVs.

Chinese Newcomer Intelligence in Motion (IM) Motors is only weeks away from production of its L6 sedan, a vehicle equipped with “Lightyear” semi-solid batteries.

With a staggering 1000 km of range (CLTC) in a dual motor variant, the L6 will become the first mass-produced vehicle to feature this advanced battery system.

The brand has beaten several major rival such as Tesla, Toyota and BYD, who are racing to develop solid-state batteries, with predictions for production models using the technology by 2027 or 2028.

A sister brand of MG, IM Motors has serious backing from SAIC, Alibaba and CATL.

The brand has the resources to enhance its battery technology quickly and position itself as a serious contender in the EV space.

The L6 addresses two main concerns for EV owners – range and charging frequency.

With 1000 km of range, drivers could go days or even weeks, pending their driving habits, without having to recharge.

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The IM L6 luxury sedan will become the first mass-produced vehicle to feature this advanced battery system. Picture: Supplied

Lithium-ion batteries are what a majority of automakers use but the demand is shifting as consumers expect faster charging times, greater range and safety.

Traditional lithium-ion batteries contain a liquid or gel electrolyte and can be prone to overheating, fire risks, and limited range.

The L6 uses semi-solid state batteries, like its name suggests, is a solid material suspended in liquid electrolyte.

They’re safer and can store more energy in the same physical space.

The battery can store 133 kWh of energy compared to conventional lithium batteries that store approximately 100 kWh.

The L6 also has fast-charging speeds of up to 400kW, delivering approximately 400 km or range in just 12 minutes.

Interior of the IM L6 luxury sedan. Picture: Supplied

But it’s not just the battery that’s impressive.

The high performance variant, the L6 Max is equipped with a 100 kWh battery and dual “Hurricane” motors, this variant delivers a staggering 579kW of power and 800 Nm.

With a sprint of 0-100 km/h in just 2.74 seconds, the L6 is one of the fastest electric sedans, outpacing the Audi e-tron GT.

IM has not commented on whether the L6 will come to Australia but given the recent wave of Chinese EVs entering the market, it’s a possibility.

If it does arrive, it’s rumoured to be priced under $100,000.

Originally published as New EV battery changes everything