Chinese carmaker Leapmotor plans to start production of its small electric sports utility vehicle, the B10, in Europe in 2026 in cooperation with its European partner Stellantis. This move is part of a broader strategy to expand into the European market, which also includes other models from the brand.
European expansion
Stellantis and Leapmotor have a joint venture called Leapmotor International, in which Stellantis has a controlling stake. This venture has exclusive rights to sell and manufacture Leapmotor electric cars outside of China. Ensuring the coordination of production, distribution, and service in foreign markets. B10 electric cars manufactured in China are already being sold in Europe through Stellantis networks. Which ensure the model’s availability in several countries and support the brand’s gradual expansion in the European market.
Leapmotor International Vice President Danilo Annese said the company is still deciding which of Stellantis’ Spanish plants will be used for European production of the B10 model. Factories in the Spanish cities of Zaragoza, Madrid, and Vigo are in the running. The planned investment in production in Europe is estimated at hundreds of millions of dollars.
Stellantis and Leapmotor bring a competitive electric car
The B10 model will be available in two battery variants with a range of 360 to 430 km according to European tests. The range includes modern technologies such as a large touchscreen display. 360° cameras, and connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The price of the model in Europe is expected to start below €30,000. Which puts it in competition with models such as the Škoda Enyaq iV.
The Stellantis group was formed in early 2021 through the merger of the Italian-American carmaker Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and the French PSA. The collaboration with Leapmotor combines European manufacturing infrastructure and distribution networks with the innovations of the Chinese automaker, which should enable competitive pricing and modern technologies for the European market.
Source: Reuters
