Stellantis Adds Leapmotor B05 to its EV Lineup, Targeting VW ID.3 and MG4
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Today, Stellantis boasts the widest range of electric vehicles in Europe, and continues to expand its offerings with new models.The latest addition is the Leapmotor B05 hatchback, entering one of the continent’s most popular vehicle segments.
Unveiled in Munich, the B05 is designed with the European market in mind. Measuring 4430 mm in length, it will compete with the Volkswagen ID.3, MG4, and even the Peugeot 308 and Opel Astra from within the Stellantis stable.
The design echoes the SUV B10, which is launching in Europe this month. It features a conservative aesthetic, including flush door handles and connected taillights. Notably, the car incorporates frameless windows on at least the front doors. Some variants also include a roof-mounted bulge concealing Lidar for autonomous driving capabilities.
The Leapmotor B05 is built on the Leap 3.5 platform and, in its rear-wheel drive configuration, delivers 160 kW and 240 Nm of torque. battery options include 56.2 kWh and 67.1 kWh capacities. An Ultra version was also showcased, expected to feature all-wheel drive and power exceeding 300 kW, distinguished by a prominent spoiler and revised bumpers.
Leapmotor to Challenge Škoda Elroq with New, Lower-priced EV
Leapmotor, the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer backed by Stellantis, is preparing to launch a new compact EV aimed at competing with models like the Škoda Elroq. The company intends to undercut competitors on price, leveraging its manufacturing base and a strategic partnership with Stellantis for European distribution.
Leapmotor’s European Expansion and Stellantis partnership
Leapmotor has been actively establishing a presence in Europe as the summer, currently offering the C10 SUV (available in both electric and serial hybrid versions) and the T03 hatchback. The B10 SUV will be added to the lineup in September, with plans to expand to five models available in Europe by next year, including the new B05 hatchback. https://www.leapmotor.com/en/
Founded in 2014, Leapmotor has emerged as one of the most triumphant EV startups. Stellantis holds a 20% stake in the company and, through the joint venture Leapmotor International, has exclusive rights to export vehicles to Europe. The Emil Frey Group is responsible for distribution within the region. https://www.stellantis.com/en/news-media/news/2023/08/stellantis-invests-in-leapmotor-to-accelerate-ev-development-and-european-market-access
Details on the New B05 Hatchback
While details remain limited, Leapmotor showcased a clay model of the new hatchback at a recent event in Munich. The company highlighted the B10’s 50:50 weight distribution, and indicated that the chassis of European versions will be tuned by the Maserati team, suggesting a focus on driving dynamics.
The B05 is expected to be priced competitively, building on the success of the B10, which starts at €29,900 (approximately 730,000 CZK).Leapmotor aims to attract customers with its value proposition, offering a lower price point than many established European brands.
Competitive Landscape
The new Leapmotor model will directly compete with vehicles like the Škoda Elroq, a compact electric SUV slated for release in 2024. https://www.skoda-auto.com/en/models/elroq Other competitors in the segment include the MG4 Electric, and various offerings from Hyundai and Kia.
Leapmotor Models Currently Available
* C10: SUV, available as a fully electric vehicle or a serial hybrid.
* T03: Small hatchback.
* B10: SUV (launching in september).
Source Photo: World of Motor and Leapmotor.