Leapmotor, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer founded in 2015, has established itself as a notable contender in the rapidly evolving EV landscape. Initially, the company had strong ties to Dahua Technology, which held a 33 percent stake at its inception. However, Dahua sold its direct stake in Leapmotor in 2023, marking a significant shift in the company’s ownership structure. Currently, Leapmotor is 21 percent owned by Stellantis, which invested €1.6 billion in the company this year.
As Leapmotor continues to innovate, the company is preparing to launch its B10 Hybrid EV, which is set to go into production in Spain in the second half of 2026. Priced from €29,990 (approximately $34,800), the B10 Hybrid is designed to appeal to families looking for a versatile SUV. With a horsepower of 218, the vehicle offers two battery options: a 56.2-kWh battery providing a WLTP-rated range of 224 miles and a 67.1-kWh battery offering up to 270 miles.
The B10 Hybrid EV is already generating buzz in the automotive community, with initial reactions highlighting its innovative approach to electric driving. “The Leapmotor B10 Hybrid EV is making waves in the family SUV market with its innovative approach to electric driving,” industry observers note. This enthusiasm is reflected in Leapmotor’s sales figures, particularly for its T03 model, which saw a remarkable 700 percent increase in sales year-on-year.
Despite the positive momentum, challenges remain. The impact of local production on the B10’s price in Europe is still unclear, leaving potential buyers and investors with questions about affordability and market positioning. Details remain unconfirmed.
Furthermore, as Leapmotor expands its footprint, it faces scrutiny due to its historical connections with Dahua Technology, a company that has been blacklisted by several countries. This backdrop raises questions about the implications for Leapmotor’s operations and international partnerships.
Looking ahead, the automotive industry will be closely watching Leapmotor’s progress as it navigates these complexities. The successful launch of the B10 Hybrid EV could solidify Leapmotor’s position in the competitive EV market, particularly as it seeks to capture a share of the family SUV segment.