Leap Motor Launches New B10 SUV, Expanding into European Market

Leap Motor has officially launched its new B10 SUV in China. This model represents a compact crossover from the Chinese automaker Leap Motor, which is supported by Stellantis. Leap Motor plans to officially unveil the model at the Paris Motor Show on October 14, indicating that the B10 is designed for global markets.

Leap Motor was originally a Chinese startup for new energy vehicles established in 2015. After eight years, in 2023, Stellantis acquired a 20% stake in Leap Motor for a deal valued at 1.5 billion euros. Additionally, the two companies have established a joint venture called Leap Motor International, in which Stellantis holds a majority stake of 51%.

In China, Leap Motor's lineup consists of five models: the city car T03, sedan C01, and crossovers C10, C11, and C16. Currently, Leap Motor officially exports only two vehicles abroad: T03 and C10. The sudden emergence of the B10 in China was unexpected; in August 2023, this vehicle was not included in the company's model planning. Instead, there were plans for a crossover named A12, sedan A03, and crossovers B11, B01, and B13. Clearly, some changes have occurred since then.

Based on previous spy shots, the B10 closely resembles the A12 crossover, sharing similar C and D pillar designs, as well as comparable contours of the hood, side mirrors, and overall dimensions. Moreover, Leap Motor stated that the price of the B10 in China will be approximately $14,250 to $21,400, which is roughly the same price range as the A12. Therefore, it is expected that the A12 is essentially the same vehicle as the B10, just under a different name.

However, the difference lies in the fact that the A12 is based on a platform derived from A-series models, while the B10 is based on a B-series platform; thus, they may not be identical models. Both platforms rely on the standard LEAP 3.5 platform.

The B10 was presented in official photos with heavy camouflage, displaying the Leap Motor branding. The images show the B10 with slim daytime running lights positioned under the hood and round headlights in the front bumper. It also features hidden door handles, a curved roofline, and slanted D-pillars.

There is currently no information regarding the powertrain of the B10. However, the vehicle in the spy shots has a charging port located on the right rear fender. Therefore, the B10 shown in the official photos is an all-electric vehicle. However, Leap Motor is also actively promoting EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) technology in China, so the B10 may also have a hybrid version. It is difficult to determine the exact size of the vehicle, but it is evident that it is a compact SUV, making it smaller than the currently available C10 crossover in Europe.

Leap Motor sells its models in 13 European countries, including France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Leap Motor expects to open 350 sales outlets worldwide by the end of 2024, with over 200 stores in Europe. Other targeted countries include Turkey, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Malaysia, Nepal, Brazil, and Chile.

From January to August 2024, Leap Motor's retail sales reached 136,794 units in China. The recent launch of the C16 has significantly boosted the brand's market position in China. However, it is still unknown whether Leap Motor will introduce this vehicle to foreign markets.