Leapmotor sales are skyrocketing, and this Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, backed by automotive giant Stellantis, is making waves in the global market. Since joining forces with Stellantis in 2024, Leapmotor has emerged as a formidable player in the electric mobility sector, breaking sales records and capturing attention worldwide. With a focus on innovative technology and affordable pricing, Leapmotor is redefining what it means to drive electric. In this article, we explore why Leapmotor is thriving, its standout models, and what this means for the future of EVs in the UK and beyond.
A New Era for Leapmotor with Stellantis
Founded in 2015, Leapmotor has quickly risen from a relatively unknown Chinese startup to a global contender in the EV market. Its partnership with Stellantis, the powerhouse behind brands like Peugeot, Citroën, and Jeep, has been a game-changer. In 2024, Stellantis invested £1.3 billion to acquire a 20% stake in Leapmotor, forming a joint venture that has accelerated the brand’s expansion into Europe and other international markets. This strategic alliance has given Leapmotor access to Stellantis’ robust distribution network and manufacturing expertise, enabling it to compete with established players like Tesla and BYD.
The partnership has already borne fruit, with Leapmotor’s vehicles now available in key European markets, including the UK. Models like the compact T03 city car and the versatile C10 SUV are gaining traction for their blend of affordability, performance, and cutting-edge technology. The brand’s focus on 100% electric vehicles, with some models offering range-extender options, has positioned it as a leader in sustainable mobility.
Record-Breaking Sales in 2025
Leapmotor’s sales figures for 2025 are nothing short of remarkable. According to industry reports, the company delivered 46,006 vehicles worldwide in June 2025 alone, marking a 6.52% increase from May 2025 and a staggering 138.65% surge compared to June 2024. Over the first six months of 2025, Leapmotor sold 221,664 vehicles globally, with 17,200 units exported between January and May. These numbers reflect the brand’s growing popularity not only in its home market of China but also in international markets like the UK, Germany, and Italy.
Since its inception, Leapmotor has surpassed 800,000 vehicle deliveries, a milestone achieved on June 18, 2025, just a decade after the company’s founding. If current trends continue, Leapmotor is on track to deliver approximately 500,000 vehicles annually, a significant feat for a relatively young EV manufacturer. The table below highlights Leapmotor’s sales performance in key markets during the first five months of 2025:
| Market | Units Sold | Year-on-Year Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Germany | 1,368 | 6025% |
| France | 1,160 | 6025% |
| Italy | 1,127 | 6025% |
| Total (16 markets) | 6,309 | 6025% |
Source: Industry reports via CommaFast
Why Leapmotor is Winning Over Drivers
Leapmotor’s meteoric rise can be attributed to several key factors that resonate with today’s EV buyers, particularly in the UK, where demand for affordable and sustainable transport is growing.
1. Affordable Pricing Without Compromising Quality
Leapmotor has positioned itself as a budget-friendly alternative to premium EV brands. The T03, a compact city car, starts at just £16,900 in the UK, making it one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market. Despite its low price, the T03 offers a 265 km WLTP range, a 95-horsepower motor, and features like a 10.1-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a panoramic sunroof. Compared to competitors like the Dacia Spring, the T03 delivers superior power and range, making it a compelling choice for urban commuters.
2. Innovative Technology: Cell-to-Chassis Design
Leapmotor’s proprietary Cell-to-Chassis (CTC) technology sets it apart from many competitors. By integrating the battery pack into the vehicle’s chassis, Leapmotor reduces production costs, enhances structural rigidity, and optimises interior space. This technology, also used by Tesla and BYD, allows Leapmotor to offer high-performance EVs at lower price points. The Leap 3.0 Four-Leaf Clover architecture further enhances efficiency by centralising electronic systems, improving coordination between components like the powertrain and infotainment.
3. Strategic Partnership with Stellantis
The collaboration with Stellantis has been pivotal in Leapmotor’s global expansion. Stellantis’ extensive dealer network, with plans to establish 125 points of sale in the UK by the end of 2025, ensures that Leapmotor vehicles are accessible to a wide audience. Additionally, Stellantis’ expertise in navigating European regulations and consumer preferences has helped Leapmotor tailor its offerings to meet local demands, such as compliance with safety standards and charging infrastructure.
4. Diverse Model Lineup
Leapmotor’s portfolio caters to a range of drivers, from city dwellers to families. The T03 is ideal for urban environments, while the C10 SUV, with its 420 km WLTP range and 218-horsepower motor, competes with models like the Peugeot e-3008 and Volkswagen ID.4. The recently introduced B10, a compact SUV unveiled at the 2024 Paris Motor Show, targets younger buyers with its sleek design and advanced features, including a potential LiDAR system for semi-autonomous driving. The C16, a larger SUV, offers a spacious interior and a unique 8.1-litre refrigerator, appealing to families seeking practicality and innovation.
5. Rapid Expansion in Europe
Leapmotor’s aggressive expansion strategy has seen it enter 16 overseas markets, with significant growth in Europe. By June 2025, the brand had established 600 points of sale across the continent, with plans to exceed 700 by year-end. In the UK, Leapmotor is leveraging Stellantis’ infrastructure to build a strong presence, with the B10 set to arrive in showrooms by October 2025. This rapid rollout demonstrates Leapmotor’s commitment to capturing a share of the European EV market, which is projected to grow significantly in the coming years.
Standout Models Driving Leapmotor’s Success
Leapmotor’s current lineup includes three models that have captured the attention of UK drivers:
- T03: A compact city car with a 265 km range, 95 horsepower, and a starting price of £16,900. Its rich feature set, including a large touchscreen and fast charging, makes it a strong rival to the Dacia Spring.
- C10: A family-friendly SUV with a 420 km range and a 218-horsepower motor. The 2026 model introduces an 800-volt architecture, enabling a 30-80% charge in just 16 minutes, addressing one of its main criticisms.
- B10: A stylish compact SUV with a 214-horsepower motor and a choice of 56.2 or 67.1 kWh batteries. Expected to start at around £30,000, it offers premium features like a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295P processor for enhanced infotainment.
These models showcase Leapmotor’s ability to combine affordability with advanced technology, appealing to a broad range of consumers.
Challenges and Opportunities in the UK Market
While Leapmotor’s growth is impressive, it faces challenges in the UK. The lack of eligibility for the UK’s Plug-in Car Grant, due to its Chinese manufacturing origins, has been a hurdle. Stellantis initially planned to assemble the T03 in Poland to qualify for incentives, but stricter regulations have limited this strategy. To counter this, Leapmotor has introduced aggressive pricing and leasing options, such as a £89 monthly lease for the T03 with a £3,000 deposit, making it accessible to cost-conscious buyers.
On the opportunity side, the UK’s push for net-zero emissions by 2050 aligns with Leapmotor’s all-electric focus. The government’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, requiring 22% of new car sales to be electric in 2025, creates a favorable environment for Leapmotor’s expansion. Additionally, the brand’s partnership with Qualcomm to integrate advanced infotainment and driver-assistance systems, such as the Snapdragon Cockpit and Ride Platforms, positions it as a leader in smart mobility.
The Future of Leapmotor in the UK
Looking ahead, Leapmotor is poised to strengthen its foothold in the UK. The company plans to introduce two new models annually in 2025 and 2026, expanding its portfolio to cover segments from compact cars to large SUVs. Production of the B10 in Spain by 2026 could make it eligible for government incentives, further boosting its competitiveness. With Stellantis’ support, Leapmotor aims to achieve 7,200 registrations in the UK by the end of 2025, a significant leap from the 1,500 vehicles registered in the first seven months of its presence.
Leapmotor’s success is also a testament to the growing influence of Chinese EV manufacturers in Europe. Alongside brands like BYD and MG, Leapmotor is challenging traditional automakers with its combination of affordability, innovation, and scalability. As the UK transitions to electric mobility, Leapmotor’s ability to offer high-value EVs at competitive prices will likely drive further growth.
Why Leapmotor Matters for UK Drivers
For UK consumers, Leapmotor represents an exciting opportunity to access cutting-edge EV technology without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a city commuter looking for an affordable runabout or a family needing a spacious SUV, Leapmotor’s lineup has something to offer. Its partnership with Stellantis ensures reliability and widespread availability, while its focus on innovation positions it as a brand to watch in the rapidly evolving EV market.
As Leapmotor continues to break sales records and expand its presence, it’s clear that this Chinese gem is more than just a niche player—it’s a serious contender reshaping the future of electric mobility in the UK and beyond.
