Leapmotor, a prominent automaker listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKG: 9863), is making significant strides in the development of its D-series models as it sets its sights on the higher-end market segment. The company’s Chief Operating Officer, Xu Jun, recently took to Weibo to share two intriguing photos showcasing camouflaged vehicles undergoing summer testing, hinting at their affiliation with Leapmotor’s D series.
The two vehicles in question are currently being put through their paces in the sweltering heat of Turpan, Xinjiang, as they undergo rigorous summer testing. One of the vehicles appears to be a spacious SUV (sport utility vehicle), while the other seems to be an MPV (multi-purpose vehicle), showcasing the brand’s commitment to offering a diverse range of options to consumers.
Leapmotor’s existing lineup in China includes models such as the T03, B10, B01, C01, C10, C11, and C16, with the T03 and B10 exclusively available as battery electric vehicle (BEV) variants. On the other hand, the rest of the models also come in extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) versions, catering to different preferences and requirements.
While the C series currently represents the brand’s most premium offering, it is priced at approximately half the cost of Li Auto’s EREV models, earning Leapmotor the moniker of “half-price Li Auto.” However, the company is now setting its sights on the higher-priced market segment with the imminent launch of its D-series models.
Recently, automotive blogger @拉面师傅Design shared renderings of Leapmotor’s first D-series model, highlighting its anticipated position as the largest full-size SUV in the Chinese market this year. With a targeted price point of around RMB 300,000 ($41,800), this flagship SUV is poised to showcase Leapmotor’s cutting-edge technologies and advanced features.
In a significant development, Leapmotor’s founder and chairman, Zhu Jiangming, revealed at a Qualcomm summit that the D-series models are slated for mass production in the first quarter of the upcoming year. The launch will coincide with the debut of Leapmotor’s next-generation central domain controller, featuring dual Snapdragon 8797 chips from Qualcomm, underscoring the brand’s commitment to innovation and technological advancement.
In terms of performance and growth, Leapmotor has been on a steady upward trajectory this year, achieving a milestone by delivering over 50,000 vehicles in July alone. Year-to-date figures indicate that the company has delivered a total of 271,793 vehicles, marking a remarkable year-on-year increase of 149.84%, as reported by CnEVPost.
As Leapmotor continues to expand its reach and customer base, recent reports suggest that the brand has garnered orders from more than five commercial NEV makers, further solidifying its position in the competitive automotive landscape. With a strong focus on innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, Leapmotor is poised for continued success in the dynamic electric vehicle market.
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