Text: Filip Keresteš; Photo: Archive
Chinese carmaker Leapmotor is one of the fastest-growing electric vehicle manufacturers in Asia. Founded in 2015, it is known for developing and producing key technologies in-house – including batteries, powertrains, and software. Thanks to this integrated approach, it can offer technically advanced, yet affordable electric vehicles aimed at value-conscious customers.
In 2023, Leapmotor entered into a strategic partnership with international automotive group Stellantis, which includes brands like Peugeot, Citroën, and Opel. The two companies jointly formed Leapmotor International, a global venture responsible for expanding their presence outside China – across Europe, India, the Middle East, Africa, South America, and Asia-Pacific. In Europe, Leapmotor is entering markets such as the Czech Republic through selected dealers from the Stellantis network. The first Czech showroom opened earlier this year.
Plans are also underway for local production. From 2026, the new European model Leapmotor B10 is expected to be manufactured at the Stellantis plant in Zaragoza, Spain. This move will help the company avoid additional import duties and make logistics more efficient. For customers, it means quicker deliveries and better service support.
Leapmotor C10 REEV
Two models are currently available in the Czech market. The Leapmotor T03 is a compact city car with a WLTP range of up to 265km. Its key selling points are a very competitive price and a well-equipped standard package – including advanced driver assistance features typically found in more expensive vehicles.
The second option is the mid-size SUV Leapmotor C10, including a version featuring advanced REEV (Range Extended Electric Vehicle) technology. This system combines an electric drivetrain with a petrol-powered generator that recharges the battery when needed. While daily mobility is handled electrically, the total range exceeds 900 km. This offers a practical solution for drivers taking longer trips, or those without reliable access to charging stations.
Leapmotor T03
Simply put, the REEV version is an electric vehicle that uses a battery-powered electric motor for primary propulsion, but also includes a small internal combustion engine (ICE) that acts as a generator to recharge the battery when it runs low, extending the vehicle’s range. This means the vehicle’s wheels are always driven by the electric motor, and the ICE only operates to generate electricity to power the motor or recharge the battery, not directly powering the wheels.
On top of that, its fast-charging technology allows the C10 REEV to recover 50% of its electric range in just 18 minutes, making long trips even more practical.
Leapmotor T03
Filip Keresteš is an automotive industry expert with over ten years of experience, starting in 2012. He has worked for companies such as Opel, AAA Auto, and Škoda Auto, where he focused not only on the Czech domestic market but also on international sales – particularly in India, as well as key markets across Africa and Asia. He currently holds the position of Head of New Business and Marketing at Auto Dobrovolný, where he is responsible for developing new business opportunities and overseeing marketing activities.