Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Leapmotor is set to unveil its compact SUV, the B10, at the Paris motor show next month. This model, designed specifically for overseas markets, could potentially make its way to Australia as a budget-friendly competitor to the Kia EV3 and Hyundai Kona Electric.
- Vehicle Specifications:
- Compact SUV with estimated length of 4.5m
- About 200mm longer than Kia EV3, 279mm shorter than Leapmotor's C10
- Features curved roofline, angular D-pillars, and rear LED light bar
- Technology and Platform:
- Built on Leapmotor's latest 3.5 electrical architecture
- Likely an improvement over the 3.0 800-volt architecture used in the C10
- Potential for plug-in hybrid range extender option
- Market Positioning:
- Designed specifically for overseas markets
- Expected to be priced below $50,000 AUD
- Potential all-wheel drive configuration for international markets
- Company Background: Leapmotor was founded in 2015. It is 51% owned by Stellantis, accelerating its global expansion. The company is now already taking orders for T03 and C10 models in Europe
- Australian Market Prospects:
- B10 expected to arrive on international markets next year
- Could offer a budget-friendly alternative in the compact EV SUV segment
- Follows planned November launch of larger C10 model in Australia
The Leapmotor B10 represents a potentially significant entry into the Australian EV market, offering a budget-friendly option in the growing compact electric SUV segment. As Leapmotor expands its global presence with Stellantis' backing, the B10 could challenge established players like Kia and Hyundai with its combination of affordability and modern EV technology.