The Chinese automaker Leapmotor is set to enhance its presence in the electric vehicle market with the launch of a new, powerful version of its C10 electric SUV. Debuting at the Zurich Motor Show in October, this all-wheel drive model boasts an impressive 436 kW of power, significantly elevating its performance compared to existing variants in Australia.
With a dual-motor electric powertrain, the new flagship C10 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just four seconds. This marks a substantial improvement over the current single-motor rear-wheel drive variants, which achieve the same speed in approximately 7.5 seconds. The vehicle is equipped with a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery featuring a capacity of 81.9 kWh, an upgrade from the 69.9 kWh battery in the existing Australian market C10 EV.
The new C10 is expected to deliver a competitive range that aligns with market expectations. The current model offers around 420 km of range based on the WLTP cycle. Leapmotor has yet to confirm whether this more powerful variant will be available in Australia, but previous filings with Chinese government authorities indicated that the standard rear-wheel drive version will transition from a 160 kW or 170 kW motor to a 220 kW unit for the 2026 model year.
Enhanced Features and Global Expansion
In addition to the power boost, the C10 is adopting a new 800V electrical system, which facilitates faster charging capabilities. This feature, along with the upgraded battery, is included in the new C10 Design 81.9 kWh AWD variant as well.
Leapmotor, founded in 2015, has recently expanded its global footprint through a joint venture with Stellantis, the parent company of Jeep and Peugeot. This partnership, established in 2023, aims to enhance Leapmotor’s international reach and make its electric vehicles more accessible worldwide.
Launched in Australia last year, the C10 marked Leapmotor’s entry into this competitive market. Currently, the C10 is priced from $45,888 AUD before on-road costs in its electric configuration, while its extended-range electric vehicle variant, the REEV Ultra Hybrid, starts at $45,990 AUD drive-away.
Despite being positioned as one of the most affordable electric SUVs in Australia, sales figures have been modest. To date, Leapmotor has delivered 352 units of the C10 in Australia. In comparison, rival brands, such as the BYD Atto 3, which began deliveries in March 2023, have seen much higher sales, with 2,335 units delivered so far this year.
Future Developments and Consumer Expectations
The C10’s current iteration has faced criticism for its limited connectivity options. The vehicle’s LEAP 3.0 architecture does not support popular smartphone mirroring platforms. Leapmotor representatives have indicated that smartphone mirroring functionality is expected to be introduced in a mid-life update or with a new-generation model that will transition to the LEAP 3.5 platform. No specific timeline for this update has been disclosed.
As Leapmotor continues to refine its offerings and expand its market presence, consumer interest will likely hinge on the balance between affordability and technological advancements. The upcoming flagship model at the Zurich Motor Show could be pivotal in shaping the brand’s trajectory in the increasingly competitive electric SUV segment.
