Leapmotor, the young Chinese electric car brand, has decided to forcefully enter the European market, supported by a partnership strategica con Stellantisone of the largest global automotive groups. This collaboration, born thanks to a significant investment of 1.5 billion euros announced in 2023, brings two new electric models to Europe: the citycar T03 and the SUV C10.
Il model T03 represents Leapmotor’s interpretation of the economical and compact city car, designed to tackle city traffic with agility. Sold at approximately 18,000 eurosthe T03 is a four-door electric sedan in the A segment, characterised by compact dimensions that make it ideal for urban travel.
With a length similar to that of the Fiat 500e, the T03 offers better interior habitability thanks to a rational design that prioritises passenger space. Powered by a 70 kW engine (95 CV) e a 37.3 kWh batterythis car promises a range of 265 km in the combined WLTP cycle, which can reach 395 km in the city using the Eco mode.
On the charging front, the T03 does not disappoint: the time needed to go from 30% to 80% battery is about 3.5 hours with a home wallboxwhile with a DC fast charger, the same process takes just 36 minutes. In addition, the T03’s suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) is above the segment average, with advanced features including adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist, making it one of the safest cars in its class.
Leapmotor, il SUV C10
The second model introduced by Leapmotor is the C10and Electric SUV large designed to compete in an increasingly crowded segment. With a list price starting at 36,400 euros, the C10 stands out for its robust design and generous dimensions, with a length of 4,739 mm and a width of 1,900 mm, which guarantee large interior spaces. The SUV is equipped with a 160 kW (218 hp) electric motor and a 69.9 kWh battery, offering a range of 420 km according to the WLTP cycle.
Inside, the C10 is equipped with a 14.6-inch high-definition central display infotainment and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. The 7.1 surround sound system with 12 speakers ensures a high-quality listening experience, while the Cell-to-Chassis technology improves the torsional rigidity of the chassis and optimizes interior space. Safety is ensured by a Level 2 ADAS system, which includes 17 functions including Active Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Monitoring.
The Stellantis and Leapmotor Collaboration was sealed with the creation of Leapmotor International, a joint venture in which Stellantis holds a 51% stake. This new entity is responsible for exporting, selling and manufacturing Leapmotor vehicles outside of China, giving Stellantis a unique competitive advantage over other Chinese manufacturers seeking to enter the European market. Thanks to Stellantis’ extensive distribution network, Leapmotor is expected to reach 350 dealerships in Europe by the end of 2024, with the goal of expanding this network to 500 stores by 2026.
Initial European markets to be involved include Italy, France, Germany, and Spain, with further expansion planned to the Middle East, Asia Pacific, and South America by 2025. With the T03 and C10, Leapmotor is set to revolutionize the electric car market in Europeoffering affordable, well-equipped alternatives in a rapidly growing sector.
Source: www.autoblog.it
