Leapmotor International is set to revolutionize the European electric vehicle (EV) landscape with its strategic launch in September 2024. This ambitious expansion, undertaken in collaboration with automotive titan Stellantis, marks a pivotal step in Leapmotor’s global growth strategy, aiming to make significant inroads into the European market.
Initial Rollout in Nine Countries
Leapmotor’s initial rollout will encompass Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. These countries, known for their stringent environmental standards and enthusiastic adoption of green technologies, provide an ideal launchpad for Leapmotor’s cutting-edge EVs. The company expects to establish a robust network of 200 points of sale by the end of the year, with plans to ramp up to 500 points of sale by 2026 to ensure a high level of service for customers.
Product Lineup and Technological Edge
The T03, designed for urban environments, is a compact and efficient car, while the C10, a high-performance model, showcases Leapmotor’s innovative LEAP3.0 technology architecture.
The C10 features industry-leading intelligent electric technology, such as central integrated electronic and electrical architecture, cell-to-chassis (CTC) technology, and its flagship intelligent cockpit. It is a fully equipped, family-centric D-segment vehicle with a best-in-segment premium ride and handling experience, featuring a 420 km WLTP range and a 5-star E-NCAP rating.
The company plans to introduce a new model every year for the next three years, and the product lineup includes the C10, C11, C01, and T03, offering pure electric and extended-range dual power options. This diverse range meets customer needs and preferences, adhering to a customer-centric value proposition.
Powerful Alliance: Leapmotor and Stellantis
Stellantis invested approximately €1.5 billion in a strategic move to acquire a 21% equity stake in Leapmotor in October 2023, a leading Chinese EV startup. This investment led to the formation of Leapmotor International, which holds exclusive rights for exporting, selling, and manufacturing Leapmotor products outside Greater China.
Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis, emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership, stating, “Leveraging Leapmotor’s cutting-edge technology and products, along with Stellantis’ support in areas such as overseas channels, services and marketing, we hope that users around the world can experience the exceptional driving and riding experience brought by Leapmotor products. We believe that this cooperation can boost Leapmotor to become a respected world-class intelligent electric vehicle company.”
Global Vision: Beyond Europe
Leapmotor’s vision extends far beyond Europe. Following its European debut, the company plans to enter other significant markets, such as the Middle East, Africa, India, Asia Pacific, and South America, by the end of 2024. This phased global expansion strategy is designed to establish Leapmotor as a leading player in the electric mobility sector, catering to the growing international demand for eco-friendly transportation.
