Stellantis and Leapmotor share their strategic business plan to bring Chinese EVs worldwide.
Stellantis N.V. and Leapmotor have completed the formation of Leapmotor International B.V., a 51/49 Stellantis-led joint venture. Based in Amsterdam, the newly formed company aims to introduce Leapmotor’s electric vehicles (EVs) to global markets beyond China, starting in the fourth quarter of 2024.
The Joint Venture and Leapmotor’s Global Expansion
In October 2023, Stellantis announced an investment of approximately €1.5 billion to acquire a 21% equity stake in Leapmotor, one of the top three Chinese EV startup brands in 2023. The deal outlined the formation of Leapmotor International, which will have exclusive rights for the export, sale, and manufacturing of Leapmotor products outside of Greater China.
The partnership aims to boost Leapmotor’s sales in China, the world’s largest automotive market, while leveraging Stellantis’ global commercial presence to accelerate Leapmotor brand sales in other regions.
Leapmotor International’s EV Offerings
Leapmotor International’s EV product lineup, including the C10 and T03 models, is considered complementary to Stellantis’ current technology and portfolio of iconic brands. These affordable mobility solutions will cater to global customers.
Leapmotor C10: A Global Premium EV
The Leapmotor C10 is the company’s first global product, designed and built according to global safety standards. Based on Leapmotor’s self-developed LEAP3.0 technology architecture, the C10 features industry-leading intelligent electric technology, including a central integrated electronic and electrical architecture, cell-to-chassis (CTC) technology, and an intelligent cockpit.
The C10 is a fully equipped, family-centric D-segment vehicle with a premium ride and handling experience, boasting a 420 km WLTP range and a 5-star E-NCAP safety rating. It has won awards for its technological and natural aesthetic design, including the 2023 International CMF Design Award and the 2024 Gold Award from the French Design Awards.
Leapmotor T03: Urban Boutique Commuter EV
The Leapmotor T03 is a small five-door, A-segment urban boutique commuter car with B-segment interior space. Stylish and enjoyable to drive, the T03 features a 265 km WLTP range and ranked No. 1 in the JD Power Initial Quality Study for the small BEV segment.
Launch and Expansion Plans
Leapmotor International’s launch plan will begin in Europe – France, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Greece, and Romania – starting in September 2024. The company aims to have 200 points of sale by the end of 2024, including Stellantis &You locations, ramping up to 500 by 2026 to ensure a high level of service for customers.
In late 2024, the Leapmotor product launch will expand to the Middle East & Africa (Turkey, Israel, and French Overseas), India & Asia Pacific (Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Malaysia, and India), and South America (Brazil and Chile).
With Stellantis’ global reach and Leapmotor’s innovative EV offerings, the joint venture aims to bring affordable and sustainable mobility solutions to customers worldwide.
