Leapmotor Expands Its European Footprint

Leapmotor, currently the 14th best-selling electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer across 13 European countries, is gearing up to double its offerings with the introduction of three new models this year. With a total of 11,697 sales so far, the Chinese brand has captured approximately 3% of the European EV market, according to data from EU-EVs.com.

Danilo Annese, head of commercial operations for Leapmotor International in Europe, confirmed this ambitious expansion. The new models will include the B10 Hybrid EV with a range extender, the B05 BEV hatchback, and the B03X, a fully electric crossover. This move signifies Leapmotor’s commitment to increasing its presence in Europe following significant sales success, particularly with the T03 city car and C10 SUV.

Recent Growth and Market Strategy

In late February 2026, Leapmotor announced a significant acceleration in its dealer and service network across Europe, securing over 800 points of sale. This marks a doubling of their network since 2024 and reflects the company’s strategic expansion into ten new European markets last year, including countries like Bulgaria and Sweden, as detailed in Stellantis’ press release.

Leapmotor’s sales surged in Q4 2025, with over 17,000 vehicles sold, a remarkable increase from just 1,300 units in the same period the previous year. This rapid growth has positioned Leapmotor second among new Chinese brands in the UK electric vehicle market, where it holds a 2.6% market share.

New Models: Features and Innovations

The upcoming B03X, showcased as the A10 at the Brussels auto show in January 2026, aims to set a new standard in the SUV category with its focus on global aesthetics. Leapmotor’s design philosophy emphasizes a blend of scientific and technological innovation, promising a vehicle that resonates well with European consumers.

In addition to the B03X, the B10 Hybrid EV will enhance Leapmotor’s lineup by offering a versatile range extender option. The B05 BEV hatchback adds further diversity to the offerings, appealing to a broader audience seeking sustainable driving solutions.

Stellantis Partnership and Local Production Plans

Leapmotor’s entry into the European market has been bolstered by its joint venture with Stellantis, which holds a 51% stake in Leapmotor International. This partnership enables Leapmotor to leverage Stellantis’ extensive dealer network, facilitating a smoother market entry since September 2024.

To optimize costs and navigate EU import tariffs, Leapmotor plans to commence production of the B10 EV in Spain, specifically in Zaragoza. This strategic move follows a successful production test of the T03 in Poland and is part of Stellantis’ broader strategy to reduce costs amid intensified competition in the EV landscape.

Strategic Implications for the Industry

The introduction of three new models and the launch of Leapmotor’s first European Innovation Center in Munich represent a pivotal shift from mere exports to localized design and production. This strategy not only enhances Leapmotor’s market presence but also positions it to compete more effectively against established players like BYD.

As Leapmotor integrates deeper into the European market, there are implications for Stellantis, which is considering adopting Leapmotor’s technology for its brands like Fiat and Peugeot. This could mark a significant milestone in the Western adoption of Chinese EV architecture, albeit with challenges related to regulatory compliance in data and connectivity.