Leapmotor adds Range Extender EV C10 to line-up

Although the Stellantis Group already has fully electric models in its European brands and also Jeep, it is with the EVs of Leapmotor International, its joint venture company with Leapmotor that it expects to strengthen its EV presence in Europe.

Established in 2024, Leapmotor International is a 51/49 Stellantis-led company which will draw on the edge that Chinese automakers have in EV technology and their comprehensive, in-house development capabilities.

The brand entered Europe in September last year and has since been launched in other markets, including Malaysia. The T03 and C10 models are the first to be launched, and will be followed by at least one new model every year in the next 3 years.

At the 101^st Brussels Motorshow in Belgium this month, Leapmotor is displaying its REEV (Range Extender Electric Vehicle) technology for the first time in Europe on the C10, its flagship model.

Another type of hybrid powertrain
A REEV has an electrified powertrain but unlike hybrid electric vehicles where the petrol engine works with the electric motor to propel the vehicle, the REEV is propelled only by an electric motor. The combustion engine is there for recharging the battery pack when necessary.

In some REEVs (like the Nissan Kicks e-POWER), there is no need to recharge from an external point, something which can help remove range anxiety as the driver doesn’t have to search for a charging station.

Recharging option
The C10 REEV, however, has the option of recharging from an external AC or DC charging station. This can add significant range in a short amount of time, useful for long trips. With DC fast charging, the C10 REEV can recover half of its electric range in just 18 minutes.

Up to 950 kms of range
The 28.4 kWh battery provides an electric range of up to 145 kms, while the total combined range is said to exceed 950 kms with a full tank of petrol. Drivers can select their preferred Energy Mode, optimizing the vehicle’s performance based on their needs. The available modes include options to prioritize electric driving or enhance power output as required.

With just the 158 kW (215 hp) motor pulling the vehicle and not the engine, there is the benefit of a battery electric vehicle with the advantage of a hybrid electric vehicle. Emissions are lower since the engine is small and also runs only when necessary.

The C10 REEV will have competitive pricing to make it an attractive option for consumers looking for a flexible and efficient hybrid solution. Leapmotor says that this model is particularly suited for those who want the benefits of electric driving but also require more flexibility in terms of driving range, a convenience provided by the range extender technology.

Three KOLs spend 24 hours in Leapmotor C10 EV!