In October 2023, Stellantis and Leapmotor announced a strategic joint venture, a groundbreaking partnership aimed at reshaping the global automotive industry with a focus on electrification and sustainability. This collaboration has led to the creation of Leapmotor International, with Stellantis holding a 51% stake and Leapmotor 49%. The venture is set to accelerate Leapmotor’s expansion beyond China, leveraging Stellantis’ global reach and expertise. By July 2024, Leapmotor had already achieved impressive growth, with 400,000 units sold, positioning it as one of China’s top three electric vehicle (EV) startups.
Driven by the increasing demand for New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) in China, Leapmotor is now eyeing global markets. The brand has established itself as a leader in innovation, developing and patenting over 443 technologies. These technologies are integrated across its vehicle lineup, which includes models such as the mid-sized C01 sedan, C11 SUV, flagship C16, compact T03, and the soon-to-be-released C10 SUV.
Leapmotor C10: Malaysia Preview
Stellantis Malaysia recently offered a media preview of the highly anticipated Leapmotor C10, a fully electric D-segment SUV. Designed to appeal to both young professionals and families, the C10 combines cutting-edge design with sustainability and advanced engineering. Its sleek, minimalist style has earned global acclaim, including the 2023 International CMF Design Award and the 2024 French Design Award.
Built on the revolutionary Leap 3.0 modular platform, the C10 is equipped with an in-house developed Lithium Iron Phosphate battery pack. The battery system is integrated into the Cell-to-Chassis (CTC) architecture, improving safety, battery efficiency, and driving dynamics. The CTC architecture enhances thermal management, preventing heat spread for up to 720 minutes and boosting battery space layout by 17.5%.
The C10 supports flexible charging inputs, including 800V/400V and 4C/2C supercharging technology, enabling faster and more efficient charging. With a 42,500Nm/deg torsional rigidity, the architecture also improves ride quality and handling.
The CTC system is seamlessly integrated with Leapmotor’s trademark “Four-Leaf Clover” Central Electronic and Electrical Architecture (E/E), powered by a System-on-Chip (SoC) and single Microcontroller Unit (MCU) to centralize control of all vehicle systems. The digital experience is further enhanced by a Qualcomm Snapdragon chip, which ensures smooth integration between cabin, driving, and parking functions. This architecture eliminates latency and delivers instantaneous communication between key vehicle components, earning the Leapmotor C10 an ADAS Level 2+ safety rating.
Features and Specifications
While full details of the Malaysian-spec C10 remain under wraps, Stellantis Malaysia has confirmed it will launch with a single-motor configuration. The motor, mounted on the rear axle, is expected to deliver 231 hp and 320 Nm of torque, based on the specifications of the Chinese domestic model.
During the preview, the C10 featured a 69.9 kWh battery pack, providing an estimated 420km of range under the WLTP cycle, although final specifications will be confirmed at the official launch.
Inside, the C10 boasts a clean and modern cabin with twin floating screens for the infotainment system and digital instrument cluster, measuring 14.6 inches and 10 inches, respectively. The interior is available in either tan or dark grey Oeke Tex material, designed to be water-resistant and safe for children. Other highlights include 20-inch wheels, full-width LED headlights and tail lights, ambient lighting, wireless charging, ventilated and heated front seats, and a panoramic glass roof with an electric sunshade.
Pricing and Market Positioning
Pricing details for the Leapmotor C10 in Malaysia have yet to be disclosed. However, Stellantis Malaysia has hinted that it will be competitively priced, aligning with other popular EV SUVs in the market. The launch of the C10 marks an exciting new chapter for Leapmotor as it ventures into the Malaysian market, bringing with it a blend of innovation, sustainability, and affordability.
