by Leapmotor introduced electric hatchback A05
The automotive brand Leapmotor, supported by Stellantis, continues to expand its lineup – it has now introduced the new subcompact electric hatchback A05. This model is positioned as a competitor to the BYD Dolphin and will be exported to international markets in the future, including Europe, under the name Leapmotor B03.
Design and dimensions
The A05 (also known as B03) is the hatchback version of the subcompact crossover A10/B03X, and it is clearly noticeable. Both models share the same design language: similar LED headlights, bumper graphics, and soft body lines. The main differences of the hatchback are a more aerodynamic windshield, lower ground clearance, and the absence of plastic cladding typical of the crossover.
According to Stellantis, the dimensions of the A05/B03: length – 4,175 mm, width – 1,790 mm, height – 1,560 mm, wheelbase – 2,605 mm. This places the model between the smaller VW ID. Polo and the larger ID.3 Neo in length, although the wheelbase is closer to the former.
Technical features and equipment
A key advantage for this segment is the optional LiDAR mounted on the roof. Leapmotor claims that the A05 is the only hatchback in its class that offers navigation-assisted driving with LiDAR support (NAP) – from parking spot to parking spot, as well as parking memory and highway assist functions.
The interior appears to be unified with the A10/B03x crossover. Equipment includes an 8.88-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.6-inch floating multimedia touchscreen based on the flagship Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 processor. Also noticeable are a two-spoke steering wheel, wireless smartphone charging, customizable ambient lighting, and a two-tone interior theme.
Powertrains and range
Like the crossover version, the hatchback is available with two power options: 94 hp (70 kW) and 121 hp (90 kW), as well as two batteries – 40 kWh and 53 kWh. According to Leapmotor, the range under the CLTC cycle is 405 km and 510 km respectively, which is 5 km more than the A10/B03x crossover.
Price and availability
The official price for the A05 has not yet been announced, but Chinese customers can already reserve the car with a deposit of just 99 yuan (about $15). Local media estimate the starting price at around 50,000 yuan ($7,400), which is cheaper than the A10 crossover, which currently costs from 65,800 to 86,800 yuan ($9,700–$12,800).
After the official launch on the Chinese market this summer, the global model under the B03 brand is expected to expand Leapmotor’s presence abroad through the distribution network of the joint venture with Stellantis. Given the European prices of the B03x crossover, the European version of the B03 hatchback is likely to start at €24,900 ($28,400), which corresponds to the level of the VW ID. Polo and Renault 5 E-Tech.
It seems Leapmotor is betting on aggressive pricing and technological richness even in the budget segment. Although there is no official data on European equipment yet, the presence of LiDAR in a compact electric vehicle could become an important argument in the fight against traditional players. At the same time, Stellantis gets a ready-made platform for electrifying its portfolio without significant own investment in development.
