Europe might not be falling head over heels for EVs as expected, but that hasn’t stopped Chinese automaker Leapmotor, backed by Stellantis that holds a majority stake in the company, from pushing forward with two new electric models—the T03 hatchback and the C10 SUV. Just a few months after Stellantis announced its plans to bring Leapmotor into the European market, the pricing for these two models has finally been revealed. The T03, aimed at city slickers who prefer their cars small and somewhat affordable, starts at € 18,900 (US$ 21,060). Meanwhile, the C10 SUV, for those who like their electric rides a little bigger (and pricier), will set you back € 36,400 (US$ 40,560). Of course, these prices are just “indicative,” which is corporate speak for “subject to change depending on how much we think you’ll pay.”
The Leapmotor T03 isn’t exactly new,
having first hit the streets in China back in 2020. Now in Europe, it’s set to
face off against budget EVs like the Dacia Spring, Citroen e-C3, and Fiat
Panda— all of which are expected to stay below the psychological € 20k (US$ 22k)
barrier in their base trims. Despite its Chinese origins, the T03 will roll off
the assembly line at Stellantis’ Tychy plant in Poland, adding a European touch
to its credentials. Measuring 3,620 mm in length, the T03 packs
a single electric motor delivering 94 hp and 158 Nm of torque. The EU-spec model comes equipped with a 37.3 kWh battery,
offering a WLTP range of 265 km —enough for urban commutes, but
you’ll be planning those longer trips carefully. Standard equipment in the
single available trim includes an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, a
10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, a rearview camera, and
a host of ADAS features.
The Leapmotor C10 is a newer addition to
the lineup, having debuted in 2023. At 4,740 mm long, it’s
roughly the same size as the Tesla Model Y, but with a more budget-friendly
price tag—despite the added cost of import taxes from China. For its size,
specs, and features, the C10 still manages to be considered relatively
affordable. The SUV is powered by a single electric motor delivering 215 hp and 320 Nm of torque. Stellantis claims the 69.9
kWh battery provides up to 420 km of range on the WLTP cycle,
making it more than capable for everyday use and longer journeys.
At launch, Stellantis will offer two
different trims, called Style and Design.Both versions come well-equipped,
boasting a digital cockpit with 10.25-inch and 14.6-inch displays, wireless
charging, ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and sustainable upholstery
materials. Up to 17 ADAS features provide Level 2 autonomy. The first European
deliveries of the Polish-made Leapmotor T03 hatchback are set to begin before
the end of September, with the Chinese-built Leapmotor C10 SUV following in
mid-October. The automaker has ambitious plans, aiming to launch a new model
each year for the next three years, gradually expanding its lineup across
Europe.
By the end of 2024, Leapmotor EVs will be
available in Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, the
Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Switzerland, and the UK. After its
European push, Leapmotor plans to expand into other markets, including the
Middle East (Israel and overseas French territories), Africa, Asia Pacific
(Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Malaysia), and South America (Brazil and
Chile).