The Australian electric vehicle (EV) market is on the cusp of a major shakeup as Leapmotor, a fast-growing Chinese EV brand, prepares to expand its presence with a range of affordable, tech-laden electric vehicles. With its first model, the C10 SUV, already on sale and the upcoming B10 compact SUV set to arrive later this year, Leapmotor is positioning itself as a key player in the competitive EV landscape. Backed by a strategic partnership with Stellantis, Leapmotor’s entry into Australia signals bold ambitions to challenge established brands like Tesla, BYD, and MG.
Who Is Leapmotor?
Founded in 2015, Leapmotor is a relatively young automaker that has quickly gained traction in China with its focus on accessible electric vehicles. The company’s origins are rooted in innovation—its founder, inspired by renting a Renault Zoe EV while on holiday, believed he could create a better product.
Since launching its first vehicle in 2019, Leapmotor has grown rapidly and now aims to expand globally.In 2023, Stellantis (parent company of Jeep, Peugeot, and Alfa Romeo) acquired a €1.5 billion ($2.5 billion AUD) stake in Leapmotor International, securing a controlling interest in its overseas operations. This partnership has enabled Leapmotor to enter new markets like Australia with confidence and resources to scale quickly.
Leapmotor’s Strategy for Australia
Leapmotor’s entry into Australia is focused on affordability and practicality without sacrificing advanced technology. According to Andy Hoang, CEO of Leapmotor Australia, the company plans to launch six models over the next three years, covering 65% of market segments. This includes both fully electric vehicles (EVs) and Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs)—a hybrid solution combining battery power with small internal combustion engines for extended range.“We’re not aiming to be market leaders in the first year,” Hoang said. “Instead, we’re focused on building a sustainable and reliable presence in the Australian EV market.”
Leapmotor’s lineup will target budget-conscious buyers while offering features typically found in premium vehicles. The company’s aggressive pricing strategy is expected to undercut competitors like Tesla and BYD significantly.
Leapmotor C10: A Tesla Model Y Rival at Half the Price
The C10 SUV, Leapmotor’s debut model in Australia, launched in late 2024 with a starting price of $45,888 AUD before on-road costs—nearly $10,000 less than the base Tesla Model Y. The C10 features:
- A single rear-mounted electric motor producing 160 kW of power and 320 Nm of torque.
- A 69.9 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, offering up to 420 km WLTP range.
- Advanced features like LiDAR-based driver assistance systems and surround-view cameras.
The C10 has been marketed as a family-friendly SUV with spacious interiors and modern styling that rivals more expensive models. Buyers who take delivery before March 31, 2025, also receive one year of free charging via the Chargefox network—a move designed to ease adoption for first-time EV buyers.
Leapmotor B10: Affordable Compact SUV for Urban Drivers
Following the C10 is the upcoming B10 compact SUV, expected to launch later this year with an anticipated starting price near $40,000 AUD before on-road costs. The B10 will compete directly with budget-friendly EVs like the BYD Atto 3 and MG 4 but promises premium features such as:
- Sleek styling with slimmer lighting clusters and integrated cameras for a futuristic look.
- Advanced safety features like autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.
- A smaller battery compared to the C10 but still offering competitive range for urban and suburban driving needs.
Challenges Ahead
While Leapmotor’s pricing strategy and feature-rich vehicles are appealing, the brand faces several challenges:
Brand Recognition: As a newcomer to Australia, Leapmotor must build trust among consumers unfamiliar with its products or reputation in China.
Competition: With established brands like Tesla dominating headlines and newer entrants like BYD gaining traction, Leapmotor must differentiate itself through value and customer service.
Infrastructure: Ensuring access to charging stations remains critical for EV adoption in Australia—a factor that could influence consumer decisions heavily.
What Makes Leapmotor Stand Out?
Leapmotor’s focus on affordability paired with cutting-edge technology positions it uniquely in the market. Unlike many budget EVs that compromise on features or performance to keep costs low, Leapmotor aims to deliver premium experiences at accessible prices—a strategy that could resonate strongly with Australian buyers.Additionally, its partnership with Stellantis provides a significant advantage in terms of distribution and support infrastructure through established dealership networks.
Leapmotor’s entry into Australia marks an exciting chapter in the country’s transition toward electrification. By offering affordable yet feature-packed EVs like the C10 and B10 SUVs, Leapmotor has the potential to disrupt traditional market dynamics dominated by pricier players.
As Australian consumers increasingly embrace electric mobility, Leapmotor’s ambitious plans could make it one of the most compelling new brands in the local automotive landscape.
