Stellantis, which is the world’s 4th largest carmaking group joined hands with Leapmotor of China last year, for a €1.5 billion investment and a 20% stake in the Chinese EV maker. Together they created Leapmotor International, where Stellantis holds 51% and Leapmotor holds 49% share. The JV focuses on exporting cars to overseas markets.
Now Stellantis has revealed its plans to launch Leapmotor as an affordable EV brand in Malaysia, as part of its plans to revive the iconic Stellantis brands in the country which include Jeep, Peugeot, and Citroen. This will also mark the beginning of Leapmotor models to be introduced in RHD markets. Although no formal announcement has been made regarding the possible cars, it is believed that the operations will begin with the T03 electric hatchback followed by the C10 crossover.
Leapmotor T03 is a small city car measuring 3,620/1,652/1,605 mm with a 2,400 mm wheelbase. In terms of powertrain, it has three e-motor variants: 40 kW, 55 kW, and 80 kW, and comes available with three battery options of 21.6 kWh, 31.9 kWh, and 41.3 kWh. The CLTC range varies between 200 and 403 km depending on the variant. In China, the Leapmotor T03 is priced between 49,900 – 89,900 yuan ($6,900 – $12,425).
Stellantis in Pakistan is partnered with Lucky Motor Corporation (LMC), and currently only sells the ICE Peugeot 2008 crossover. Though it did showcase the e-2008 a couple of years ago, the formal launch of the electric variant is yet to take place. However, with a recent surge in the introduction of EVs in the Pakistani landscape, and the imminent launch of Leapmotor EVs in RHD markets, it will be interesting to see if Stellantis has any plans to bring the likes of T03 as an affordable EV offering in our country.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
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