Introducing MG's New Luxury Performance Brand: IM (Intelligence in Motion or Intelligent Mobility)
Luxury performance brand introduced by MG, targeting Tesla with a two-part initiative
British car manufacturer MG has launched a new luxury performance brand, IM (Intelligence in Motion or Intelligent Mobility). This innovative brand is set to revolutionise the electric vehicle market with its focus on high performance, cutting-edge technology, and luxury at competitive pricing.
Unique Features and Specifications of MG's IM Brand
The IM brand currently includes two models: the IM5 (sedan crossover) and the IM6 (mid-size SUV). Both vehicles offer multiple variants, including base, premium, and performance trims, with different battery sizes and motor configurations.
Performance
The flagship performance variants of the IM6 and IM5 deliver impressive power. The IM6 Performance variant offers up to 767 bhp and an all-wheel-drive layout, while the IM5 top Performance model delivers 751 hp, accelerates 0-62 mph in 3.2 seconds, and features dual motors for e-4WD. Both models include features like 4-wheel steering and adaptive air suspension, enhancing handling and ride comfort.
Battery and Charging Technology
The IM models utilise an 800V electrical architecture, allowing ultra-fast charging: up to 396 kW peak, charging from 10% to 80% in about 17 minutes. Battery packs include 75 kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) for base models and 100 kWh NMC batteries for premium and performance trims, with ranges up to 550 km (WLTP). Advanced development includes future solid-state batteries with double the energy density, although initial models still use conventional batteries.
Autonomous Driving and Tech
The IM AD intelligent driving system supports Level 3 autonomy, enabling hands-free driving on expressways and semi-autonomous city driving, surpassing Tesla’s Level 2 Autopilot. It integrates multiple sensor types: LIDAR, 12 cameras, 5-mm wave radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, providing redundancy and enhanced safety.
Design and Dimensions
The IM6 SUV measures about 4904mm long x 1988mm wide x 1669mm high with a 2950mm wheelbase. Cargo capacity ranges up to 665 liters behind rear seats and expands to around 1640 liters with rear seats folded. The IM5 offers decent boot space of 457 liters with a practical fastback hatch design.
Warranty and Support
MG offers a 7-year unlimited-kilometer warranty if serviced within their network, otherwise 5 years unlimited or 5 years/160,000 km for commercial use, showing confidence in vehicle durability.
Pricing
The IM6 premium and performance models are competitively priced (~$61,000 AUD for base Premium, up to ~$81,000 AUD drive-away for Performance). IM5 variants similarly span a range catering from mainstream to performance luxury buyers.
In summary, MG's IM brand strongly emphasises a blend of luxury, advanced EV technology, fast charging, powerful electric drivetrains, and autonomous capabilities. The use of Level 3 autonomy, 800V architecture, future solid-state battery tech, and performance features like 4-wheel steering and adaptive suspension sets IM apart as a notable new contender in the luxury electric vehicle market.
The IM5 and IM6 were first unveiled at the Melbourne Motor Show in April and were formally launched in Sydney this week.
- MG's IM brand is entering the electric vehicle market with a focus on luxury performance, cutting-edge technology, and competitive pricing, aiming to revolutionize the industry.
- The IM brand offers two models, the IM5 and the IM6, both equipped with multiple variants that cater to different performance levels and battery sizes.
- The flagship performance variants of the IM6 and IM5 boast impressive power, with the IM6 offering up to 767 bhp, and the IM5 delivering 751 hp, making them strong contenders in the automotive world.
- The IM models have a unique 800V electrical architecture for ultra-fast charging, promising a charge from 10% to 80% in roughly 17 minutes, and featuring battery packs ranging from 75 kWh LFP to 100 kWh NMC, offering ranges up to 550 km (WLTP).
