Leapmotor Debuts Its First Global Model, the C10, in Germany

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Chinese electric vehicle (EV) startup Leapmotor is embarking on an ambitious global expansion plan, aiming to launch five new models in the next two years for markets in Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and the Americas. This significant move is part of Leapmotor’s strategy to broaden its presence on the global stage.

Leapmotor Debuts Its First Global Model, the C10, in Germany - Car News - 1

At the IAA Mobility event in Munich, Germany, Leapmotor unveiled its first global model, the C10, signaling the initiation of its global strategy. The C10 is a mid-to-large-size SUV built on Leapmotor’s latest Leap 3.0 architecture, and it will be offered in both battery electric vehicle (BEV) and extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) versions.

Leapmotor, founded in 2015, initially gained recognition for its affordable mini EV T03. However, the company also produces higher-priced models like the coupe S01, flagship SUV C11, and flagship sedan C01, targeting mid-to-high-end markets.

Leapmotor’s founder, chairman, and CEO, Zhu Jiangming, announced in November 2022 that all models on the company’s C platform and future platforms would offer both BEV and EREV versions. The company had already launched an EREV variant of its C11 SUV and filed for an EREV version of its C01 sedan with Chinese regulators.

In addition to offering various powertrain options, Leapmotor intends to provide flexibility in seating arrangements for the C10, including a five-seat version and a six-seat option.

Notably, the C10 showcased at the IAA Mobility event featured LiDAR technology on the roof, a feature distinct from Leapmotor’s current models.

Leapmotor’s global expansion plan involves catering to both left-hand drive and right-hand drive markets and making its EVs available in regions such as Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and the Americas. The company also plans to diversify its role beyond being an automaker, venturing into exports of electrical and electronic architecture technology, as well as exploring vehicle manufacturing-based partnerships.

In terms of recent performance, Leapmotor achieved robust deliveries, with 14,190 vehicles delivered in August, marking its second-highest monthly figure following July’s 14,335 deliveries. The C11 series contributed significantly to these deliveries, with more than 10,000 units delivered in August, accounting for over 70 percent of Leapmotor’s total deliveries during that month.