IM Motors, branded Zhiji in China (智己, meaning roughly “know yourself”), is a genuinely well-funded premium EV brand, a joint venture between MG’s parent company SAIC, technology park operator Zhangjiang Hi-Tech, and Alibaba, with SAIC holding the majority stake. Founded in November 2020, it’s positioned as SAIC’s technology showcase, competing directly with brands like Zeekr and Xiaomi for tech-forward, design-led buyers rather than value shoppers.
IM Motors
Founded: 2020 HQ: Shanghai, China Parent: SAIC Motor, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech, and Alibaba (joint venture)
Last updated: August 25, 2026
IM Motors Overview
IM launched with the L7 sedan in 2021, followed by the LS7 SUV, but it’s the more recent, more affordable LS6 that’s become the brand’s genuine sales success, delivering over 18,000 units in the first seven months of 2025 alone against barely 1,000 combined for the pricier L7 and LS7. A significantly redesigned LS6 launched in September 2025, adding a range-extender EREV option for the first time alongside the existing electric versions.
IM has already taken tentative steps into export markets, interestingly leaning on its SAIC parentage rather than launching fresh, the LS6 is sold as the “MG IM6” in some overseas markets, using MG’s established dealer networks rather than building IM’s own from scratch. IM Motors has not launched in the UK under its own name, and no UK plans for the IM brand itself have been announced.
Available In
- Asia
- Not Available in UK
Availability shown is approximate, check the manufacturer's official website to confirm for your country.
