by Presentation of the New Leapmotor B05 Electric Vehicle
Stellantis supported the Leapmotor brand in presenting the all-new B05 at the IAA Mobility exhibition in Munich. This model, known as the Lafa 5 on the Chinese market, is a fully electric compact hatchback aimed at competing with the VW ID.3 and MG 4. The car is expected to hit the roads next year and will be available in an “Ultra” version with a sporty body kit.
Design and Features
The B05 serves as a low-slung alternative to the B10 crossover, which is already available for order in Europe. It is designed for young buyers seeking an affordable electric vehicle with a stylish exterior and a high-tech interior.
The stylish hatchback body includes familiar design features from other Leapmotor products. Key features include darkened headlights connected by a thin grille, sporty bumpers, frameless doors, and full-width LED rear lights reminiscent of Porsche’s design.
The specimen presented in Munich is painted a bright yellow shade with glossy black accents and a matching set of 19-inch alloy wheels. The European version is identical to the Chinese Lafa 5, although the latter is also equipped with a LiDAR sensor on the roof, indicating more advanced autonomous driving features.
Technical Specifications and Platform
The B05 is 4,430 mm long, 1,880 mm wide, and 1,520 mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,735 mm. For comparison, the B10 crossover is 85 mm longer, 5 mm wider, and 135 mm taller, sharing the same wheelbase.
Although Leapmotor has not yet announced full technical specifications, the B05 is expected to use the LEAP3.5 architecture along with the B10. This means it could be equipped with a single electric motor producing 215 hp and 240 Nm of torque, with battery options of 56.2 kWh or 67.1 kWh capacity. The latter provides a range of up to 434 km according to the WLTP standard in the B10, so similar figures can be expected for the hatchback.
The manufacturer proudly states that the B10 chassis was developed with the involvement of Stellantis’ engineering team, has a 50:50 weight distribution, and a multi-link rear suspension. The same may apply to the electric hatchback.
Interior and Pricing Policy
The electric vehicles may have a similar cabin layout, with a 14.6-inch infotainment display on a Snapdragon 8155 chip and the Leap OS 4.0 Plus operating system.
Stellantis has not announced prices for the Leapmotor B05 hatchback, but it will be more affordable than the B10 crossover, which starts at €29,900 in some European markets. This makes it cheaper than the VW ID.3, which starts at €33,330 in Germany.
The company has also released photos of the Ultra version, which will be officially presented later this year before its launch in 2026. This version features a pronounced splitter, a larger rear spoiler, and a slightly redesigned rear bumper.
Leapmotor continues to expand its global presence by offering competitive solutions in the affordable electric vehicle segment. Their latest developments show significant progress in design and technology, making them a serious player in the battle for market share, especially in Europe and China. Collaboration with Stellantis gives them additional advantages in production and engineering solutions.
