Leapmotor, the Chinese EV maker that has partnered with Stellantis, recently unveiled a compact electric saloon designed specifically for younger buyers. This new model, known as the Leapmotor B01, is twinned with the Kia Sportage-sized Leapmotor B10 crossover and is set to hit UK showrooms later this year. Priced at just £10,400 in China, the B01 is a five-door fastback that is similar in size to the Mercedes-Benz CLA.
While the B01 has only been revealed in its Chinese version, it comes equipped with a roof-mounted lidar sensor. Leapmotor has ambitious plans to introduce a total of six models in the UK by 2027, including the T03 supermini, B10 crossover, and C10 SUV. However, it is uncertain whether the B01 will be included in this lineup, as the company is evaluating the demand for small saloons in Europe, which has been declining in recent years.
Although specific technical details have not been fully disclosed, Leapmotor claims that the B01 will offer a “segment-leading” range of 404 miles (650km) based on China’s CLTC test cycle. This figure is likely to translate to a WLTP range in the mid-350s, making it competitive in the electric vehicle market. The B01’s impressive range can be attributed in part to its sleek fastback design, boasting a drag coefficient of just 0.197, surpassing even the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model S.
At the Shanghai motor show debut of the B01, Leapmotor’s senior vice-president, Cao Li, emphasized that the car was designed to cater to the preferences of young consumers. He highlighted that the current offerings in China for similarly sized and priced cars are primarily targeted towards ride-hailing services and may not meet the expectations of young buyers seeking both features and quality.
In conclusion, the Leapmotor B01 represents a step towards meeting the evolving demands of the automotive market, particularly among younger consumers. With its impressive range, sleek design, and focus on delivering a premium driving experience, the B01 is poised to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle segment.
