Leapmotor Unveils Affordable Electric Vehicles for UK Market

Expansion Brings Competitive EVs to Britain / Reuters

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Leapmotor has officially entered the UK market, introducing two highly anticipated models, the T03 compact car and the C10 SUV, through a strategic partnership with Stellantis, the world’s fourth largest automaker. This move, announced via Reuters, marks a significant step for Leapmotor as it leverages Stellantis’ extensive dealership network to bring affordable electric vehicles with advanced technology to British consumers. The T03, priced at an attractive $20,763 (£15,995), positions itself as the UK’s second most affordable EV, trailing only Renault’s Dacia Spring, while the C10, starting at $47,372 (£36,500), offers a spacious SUV option at a competitive price point compared to rivals like BYD’s Atto 3. With plans to expand to 80 Stellantis dealerships by the end of 2025 and further growth in 2026, Leapmotor is poised to make a substantial impact on the UK electric vehicle market.

The launch is underpinned by a joint venture formed in October 2023, where Stellantis acquired a 21% stake in Leapmotor and established a 51% controlling interest in Leapmotor International. This partnership grants Stellantis exclusive rights to export, sell, and manufacture Leapmotor electric vehicles outside Greater China, ensuring a robust distribution framework. In the UK, sales have begun at 44 Stellantis dealerships, where staff have undergone specialized training to showcase the unique features of these Chinese made EVs. Unlike in the European Union, where the T03 is produced at a Stellantis plant in Poland to circumvent tariffs, the UK bound vehicles are manufactured in China, taking advantage of the absence of import tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. This strategic decision enhances cost efficiency, allowing Leapmotor to offer competitive pricing for UK buyers seeking affordable electric cars with cutting edge technology. Damien Dally, Leapmotor’s UK managing director, emphasized the brand’s goal, stating, “Our proposition is to deliver the best value EV brand in the UK, whilst at the same time delivering the top spec and the latest tech,” highlighting the blend of affordability and innovation that sets Leapmotor apart.

Delving into the specifics of the models, the Leapmotor T03 emerges as a standout option for urban drivers looking for cheap electric cars in the UK. Priced at $20,763, it boasts a 37.3 kWh battery, delivering a range of up to 165 miles on the WLTP combined cycle, and 95 horsepower for nimble city driving. The T03 is equipped with a central touchscreen, a full length panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, making it a feature rich contender in the budget EV segment. Its compact design facilitates easy parking, while the spacious interior and modern connectivity options cater to practical needs. Meanwhile, the Leapmotor C10 targets the mid range SUV market with a starting price of $47,372, undercutting BYD’s Atto 3 by roughly $1,297 (£1,000) despite offering a larger footprint and a 263 mile range from its 69.9 kWh battery. With 218 horsepower and a suite of safety and comfort features, including an award winning design and a five star Euro NCAP rating, the C10 appeals to families and tech savvy buyers seeking affordable electric SUVs with premium specifications. Both models are currently available, with the B10 midsize SUV slated for a later 2025 release, further expanding Leapmotor’s UK portfolio.

Leapmotor’s market positioning is clear: it aims to deliver high value electric vehicles that combine competitive pricing with advanced features, avoiding the race to be the absolute cheapest option. The T03 competes directly with budget models like the Dacia Spring, Fiat 500 Electric, and Mini EV, offering superior technology for a modest price premium. The C10, on the other hand, challenges established players like BYD and even Tesla’s Model Y in the mid range SUV category, providing a compelling alternative for buyers prioritizing space, range, and safety. This approach is bolstered by Stellantis’ established infrastructure, which includes a reliable network for repairs and parts, addressing potential concerns about after sales support for a new entrant from China. The absence of UK tariffs on Chinese made EVs further enhances Leapmotor’s ability to maintain low prices, potentially influencing other Chinese EV brands to follow suit and intensifying competition in the UK electric vehicle market.

Looking ahead, Leapmotor’s ambitious expansion plans signal a long term commitment to British consumers. The planned increase to 80 dealerships by year end 2025, coupled with the upcoming B10 launch, suggests a broadening of options for buyers seeking affordable electric vehicles with modern features. This entry not only diversifies the UK EV landscape but also pressures existing manufacturers to refine their offerings, particularly in the budget and mid range segments. For consumers, the arrival of Leapmotor translates to greater choice, with the T03 offering an accessible entry point into electric driving and the C10 providing a value driven alternative to pricier SUVs. As the UK continues its push toward sustainable transportation, Leapmotor’s blend of affordability, technology, and strategic partnerships positions it as a key player in shaping the future of electric mobility in Britain.