The first European Media Drive is currently taking place in Milan for the C10 and T03 models of the Chinese EV maker Leapmotor. The event, held in the Italian design and innovation capital and at the enchanting Lake Maggiore, marks the official debut of Leapmotor International in Europe.
This is the first global partnership in the electric-vehicle sector between a major automaker and a Chinese OEM specialized in NEV. Specifically, the 51:49 joint venture led by Stellantis is aimed at further increasing Leapmotor sales in China, one of the largest automobile markets in the world, while taking advantage of Stellantis’ consolidated commercial presence on international markets to increase Leapmotor sales in other regions.
The C10 and T03 models sold by Leapmotor International are equipped with state-of-the-art electric technologies and offer high levels of performance, efficiency, safety, and range. In particular, the C10 SUV is the first Leapmotor product created for the global market and in line with international safety and design standards.
The C10 is the perfect choice for customers who want to “take the leap” to battery electric vehicles (BEV) and need a true family vehicle. Moreover, Stellantis’ distribution network guarantees peace of mind in regard to services and assistance, offering family mobility at an affordable price.
Leapmotor’s new D-SUV offers everything that a family could want in a modern electric vehicle thanks to its best-in-class safety, an intelligent user experience, and premium levels of comfort. Specifically, the C10 is based on the LEAP 3.0 architecture developed by Leapmotor, which makes use of best-in-class intelligent electric technology, including a centrally integrated electronic configuration, the Cell-to-Chassis (CTC) system, and the smart cockpit, Leapmotor’s true showpiece.
The electric C10 SUV boasts D-segment-like dimensions and loads of features, the best driving experience in the category, 420 km of WLTP range, and a top-notch safety standards. After being awarded the “International CMF Design Award 2023” for its technological design and stunning look, it recently won the “Gold Award 2024” at the French Design Award (FDA) and the “Gold Award 2024” at the US MUSE Design Award.
The T03, the second star of the European Media Drive, is also sure to turn heads. The intelligent choice for the city, the T03 is a compact, five-door segment-A vehicle with segment-B-like dimensions. In addition to being elegant, the vehicle is enjoyable to drive and has a WLTP range of 265 km. Furthermore, it has been placed first in the compact-battery, electric-vehicle segment in the Initial Quality Study by JD Power 2023. In short, the T03 is the smart choice for the city as it combines smaller size, which makes it agile in traffic, with cutting-edge electric propulsion at a truly competitive price.
According to Stellantis, the C10 SUV will sell from 36,400 euros, while the T03 will start at 18.900 euros.
THE T03 MODEL
DESIGN
With a modern aesthetic and state-of-the-art technological features, the T03 model offers elegant and agile urban mobility designed to satisfy the needs of younger and more modern drivers. The spacious interiors, together with a distinctive exterior design, make it the ideal and smart choice for those looking for a compact vehicle without having to give up on comfort, style, and technology—all of which is made even more appealing thanks to its competitive price.
With a length of 3,620 mm, a width of 1,652 mm, a height of 1,577 mm, and a wheelbase of 2,400 mm, the five-door and four-seater vehicle is ideal for urban mobility. The exterior look features a round and dynamic design with a waistline which extends from the front fender to the taillights, giving the vehicle a sense of speed and power. The exterior design of the Leapmotor model is further enhanced by distinctive elements like the curved front face, which provides the vehicle with a friendly and elegant feeling. The panoramic sunroof and the two-tone design enhance its aesthetic appeal, while the horizontal strip on the rear adds a touch of sophistication. The 15” aluminum alloy wheels with petal-shaped spokes complete the exteriors, adding a sporty and modern look to the vehicle. Moreover, the model is equipped with a state-of-the-art lighting system, as exemplified by its curved and sharp DRL LED, which include automatic mode and the “Follow Me Home” function, as well as the eye-catching rear LED taillights, which have been enhanced with an impactful design and sharp edges. The vehicle is equipped with 74 LED units which are guaranteed to light up quickly and offer an improved warning effect. Lastly, the exterior mirrors are heated, electrically adjustable, and feature integrated LED turn signals, ensuring superior visibility.
The interiors of the T03 are comfortable and spacious with 960 mm of rear headroom and 950 mm of front headroom, ensuring enhanced comfort to every passenger. Access to the vehicle is easier thanks to its five doors, while the 42-inch panoramic sunroof with an electric sunshade contributes to creating a bright and fresh environment. Moreover, the vehicle features cutting-edge technologies like the 8-inch LCD instrument cluster which interacts with the 10.1-inch central touchscreen. The system is highly intuitive and allows the driver to manage the infotainment, navigation, telephone, and voice control easily. Furthermore, the multifunction steering wheel equipped with ADAS, Bluetooth, and voice-control buttons guarantees a safe and comfortable driving experience.
ELECTRIC POWERTRAIN AND CHASSIS
The T03 is equipped with an electric powertrain which was developed by Leapmotor entirely on its own. The heart of the system is a 37.3 kWh battery which offers 265 km of range in the WLTP Combined cycle and up to 395 km range in Urban Cycle. This system is managed by an Intelligent Battery Management System (BMS) which utilizes cloud technology to monitor the state of the battery in real-time and to guarantee that it always operates within an optimal temperature range. Specifically, the electric motor develops a maximum power of 70 kW (95 CV) and a maximum torque of 158 Nm, which makes it incredibly efficient for everyday driving. Thanks to the lightness of the design, the integrated controller reduces the weight of the system by 28.8%, while increasing the use of space by 51.9%. Engine quietness is yet another point of pride for the vehicle, with noise levels remaining low at 76 dB.
The model offers three driving modes, each of which has been designed to adapt to various driving conditions and driver preferences. More specifically, ECO mode optimizes regenerative braking and provides smoother power response, which is ideal for maximizing efficiency. SPORTS mode offers faster power response, with moderate regenerative braking. Lastly, STANDARD mode offers a balance between the two, with its weak regenerative braking allowing the vehicle to move slowly after the accelerator is released. The steering system is just as versatile and also includes three distinct modes: COMFORT mode increases steering assistance, making the drive lighter and more comfortable; SPORTS mode reduces steering power, offering more precise and dynamic control; and finally, STANDARD mode is a compromise between the previous two and offers a balanced steering experience. The vehicle also features a front MacPherson suspension and a rear roll and torsion bar in one combined system. This setup ensures balanced weight between the axles (close to the ideal ratio of 1:1) and provides stable and comfortable driving both in urban use and on longer journeys.
The model also sports a highly efficient braking system which includes an electric parking brake and front and rear ventilated braking discs to improve heat dissipation and reduce thermal attenuation, leading to enhanced durability. Additionally, the regenerative braking system converts kinetic electrical energy during braking and stores it in the battery for later use, which leads to lower maintenance costs and improved overall energy efficiency. Finally, the T03 is compatible with Type 2 and CCS2 charging connectors and includes an onboard charger of 6.6 kW and a maximum DC charging power of 48 kW. The home charging time from 30% to 80% is around 3,5 hours, while utilizing a DC charging station for the same time requires just 36 minutes.
THE C10 MODEL
EXTERIOR DESIGN
The C10 is a large D-SUV with plenty of interior space and a solid and robust exterior design. With a length of 4,739 mm, a width of 1,900 mm, a height of 1,680 mm, and a wheelbase of 2,825 mm, the C10 satisfies every need with its comfortable and functional space. Furthermore, the ground clearance contributes to guaranteeing stability and safety on all kinds of terrain. Specifically, the front face of the vehicle has a balanced design, with automatic LED headlights and roof bars which enhance the vehicle’s adventurous spirit. The three parallel waistlines on the sides, together with the black flush door handles and the “shark fin” antenna, provide a modern and aerodynamic touch to the design.
Additionally, the rear wiper blade hidden under the spoiler and the sleek LED taillights add to the vehicle’s technological and cutting-edge look. More specifically, the hood sets itself apart with its prominent and raised line, which not only adds visual power, but also plays a key role in protecting pedestrians. The dumbbell-shaped grill and the well-defined, protruding front bumper contribute to providing a sense of spaciousness and safety. Meanwhile, the sides feature three parallel lines which create a strong impression of strength and stability, and the shoulders sport rounded and full shapes which evoke muscularity, with their sharp transitions adding to the sense of power. The entire design is further enhanced by the slightly squared wheel arches.
INTERIOR DESIGN
With a special focus on attention-to-detail and sustainability, the C10’s interior design has been conceived to offer an advanced and innovative space, which combines elegance and functionality without making any compromises. For example, this is exemplified by the five-way scroll buttons on its steering wheel, which allow for rapid and intuitive control of the most commonly used functions during driving, or by the 10.25-inch instrument panel which, together with the high-definition 14.6-inch central display, contributes to the feeling of driving a highly technological car. It is worth noting that the C10 uses sustainable materials like cellulose to reduce carbon emission by 30% during production.
Environmental awareness has been combined with a technological and intuitive aesthetic, with the C10 taking home the prestigious “International CMF Design Award 2023”. The interiors also provide practical solutions, like the hollow front armrest box which is ideal for storing small objects or charging portable electronic devices, and the center dual cup holder which includes internal spring-loaded side supports for improved practicality. The PRND drive selector is mounted on the steering column, saving on space and ensuring easy operation. One of the most refined elements of the interior design is the C10’s hidden electric air vent. Moreover, the C10 is equipped with innovative multi-mode ambient lighting which improves the interior atmosphere by ensuring a customizable and immersive sensory experience. Lastly, comfort is also guaranteed thanks to the electric sunshade, which keeps the interiors cool during summer months. While open, the 2.1-m2 panoramic sunroof floods the interiors with natural light, enhancing both well-being and the driving experience.
SMART ELECTRIC POWERTRAIN
The C10 is designed to meet and exceed the highest efficiency and performance standards thanks to its advanced electric powertrain solutions. Equipped with a 160-kW motor (218 hp) and 320 Nm of torque, the vehicle offers outstanding acceleration stats, with the torque distribution guaranteeing high performance both at medium and high speeds, making it perfect for dynamic overtaking and handling. One of the key elements of the C10’s powertrain is the energy recovery system, which includes both regenerative braking and the “freewheeling” function. The vehicle offers three driving modes to deal with various road conditions and driver preferences.
Battery thermal temperature management ensures excellent performance with a system that intelligently manages the temperature of the battery pack, maintaining efficiency both in the charge and discharge phases. It should be pointed out that the C10 SUV has been developed using Cell-to-Chassis technology, which integrates the battery cells into the structure of the vehicle. This approach not only improves the battery layout, but also saves on space, increasing the torsional rigidity of the chassis to 42,500 NM/degree. This leads to superior safety and better handling, in addition to offering more interior space thanks to the vertical optimization of the battery area. The overall performance of the C10 is supported by a high-performance electric drive unit which leads to greater efficiency and range.
The unit has been designed to last and has an expected lifespan of more than 600,000 kilometers. In particular, the C10’s battery thermal temperature system utilizes advanced heat and battery cooling technology during charge and discharge events. The intelligent control algorithm allows for the independent management of the temperature inside the cabin, improving the efficiency of the system and guaranteeing a comfortable environment for the passengers. Additionally, the system offers artificial-intelligence based diagnostics, monitoring the health status of the electric system in real-time and supplying early warnings in the case of malfunctions, which leads to an improvement in the overall reliability of the vehicle.
Furthermore, thanks to its artificial intelligence, the C10 can learn the user’s driving habits and adapt over time, constantly improving the software strategies to optimize the vehicle’s performance. The system offers significant redundancy, ensuring that it is possible to maintain a high level of energy efficiency and power recovery in the case of failure. Lastly, as far as charging is concerned, the C10 is equipped with an 6,6 kW AC charger, which allows one to go from 30% to 80% battery capacity in around 6,1hours; meanwhile, for a faster charge, the DC system allows one to achieve the same result in just 30 minutes. The 69.9-kWh battery pack guarantees 420 km of WLTP range, making the C10 fit for long journeys and eco-friendly sustainability.
