Chinese startup Leapmotor, with the support of the Stellantis group, is launching a new electric car, the B05, on the European market. This is a fully electric hatchback designed to compete with the updated Volkswagen ID.3 Neo. A “hot” Ultra version will also arrive later, aiming to surpass the next Golf GTI.
Aggressive Pricing
The Leapmotor B05, known in China as the Lafa 5, first appeared in Europe back in September at the Munich Motor Show. It is now on sale. In Italy, prices start from €26,900 ($31,500) and go up to €30,900 ($36,200) before local incentives are applied.
This makes the base version €9,600 ($11,200) cheaper than the pre-facelift VW ID.3 in Italy. Additionally, the B05 is €11,450 ($13,400) cheaper than the Renault Megane E-Tech and €13,080 ($15,400) cheaper than Stellantis’ own Peugeot E-308.
Local Production as a Key Advantage
The European version of the Leapmotor B05 is assembled at the Stellantis plant in Figueruelas, Zaragoza, Spain. Local production allows the company to avoid high EU tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles. This helps set a price that is even lower than the discontinued MG4.
Competitive Features
The electric car has a length of 4,430 mm and is built on the “LEAP 3.0” architecture with “Cell-to-Chassis” (CTC) technology. This integrates the battery into the body structure, increasing rigidity. The company also claims a 50:50 weight distribution, and the suspension was tuned in collaboration with Stellantis engineers.
European buyers are offered two LFP battery options: 56.2 kWh (range of 401 km WLTP) and 67.1 kWh (up to 482 km). Fast DC charging reaches 174 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 30% to 80% in just 17 minutes.
The Leapmotor B05 is equipped with a rear electric motor producing 215 hp (160 kW) and 240 Nm of torque. The future B05 Ultra version will feature 241 hp (180 kW) and 255 Nm, along with a lowered suspension, more powerful brakes, and a more aggressive body kit.
Generous Equipment
Despite its budget-friendly price, the B05 is packed with technology. The base Life trim includes a 14.6-inch touchscreen, an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, a voice assistant with facial recognition, dual-zone climate control, a 360° camera, a panoramic roof, and a full suite of ADAS systems.
The top Design trim adds 19-inch alloy wheels, heated steering wheel, and ventilated front seats with eco-leather upholstery. A 256-color ambient lighting system that reacts to music and an enhanced ADAS package are also available.
While details on the B05 Ultra for Europe have not yet been revealed, the Chinese version features a front splitter, side skirts, a rear spoiler and diffuser, as well as unique 19-inch wheels. Inside, it has sports seats with a massage function, suede upholstery, and LiDAR-based driver assistance systems.
In China, the Leapmotor Lafa 5 is significantly cheaper, ranging from ¥90,800 to ¥114,800 ($13,300-16,800). The Ultra version is priced at ¥118,800-124,800 ($17,400-18,300). However, it is worth noting that the base Chinese versions have less power and a smaller battery.
Thus, the Leapmotor B05 becomes not just another electric car, but a strategic tool for Stellantis to fight for market share amidst growing price sensitivity among buyers. Local production allows it to bypass trade barriers, while aggressive pricing combined with rich features creates a serious challenge for European manufacturers accustomed to higher margins. This could lead to further price reductions for electric cars in Europe, ultimately benefiting consumers but increasing pressure on traditional automakers.