5 things to know about the upcoming Leapmotor C10 EV

Malaysia’s electric vehicle space will soon be getting a new entrant in the form of the Leapmotor C10. For starters, Leapmotor is a Chinese automotive brand that made its local debut at the 2024 Malaysia Autoshow in May. The automaker previewed the C10 electric SUV that will be sold under the Stellantis umbrella in the local market.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the upcoming Leapmotor C10, helping prospective customers make an informed decision about their next electric vehicle purchase.

Leapmotor C10: Top 5 things to know

Award-winning design

The Leapmotor C10, a 4.73 metre long SUV, boasts an award-winning design that perfectly balances power and elegance. The EV has earned several prestigious accolades, including the 2023 International CMF Design Award, the 2024 Gold Award from the French Design Awards, and the 2024 Gold Award from the US MUSE Design Awards. These awards underline the upcoming C10's handsome design, setting it apart in the crowded EV market.

The front fascia of the EV resembles the smart #1, while the rear draws inspiration from the Porsche Cayenne. Accentuating the side profile are hidden door handles and 20-inch alloy wheels. Overall, the SUV has a sporty and refined presence.

LEAP 3.0 technology architecture

The upcoming Leapmotor C10 is based on the brand’s self-developed LEAP 3.0 technology architecture, which incorporates cutting-edge features like a central integrated electronic system and a Cell-to-Chassis design. The latter integrates the battery directly into the vehicle's chassis while eliminating the need for a separate battery pack. This not only reduces the weight but also offers improved safety and overall driving efficiency.

The advanced Lithium Iron Phosphate battery pack is also developed in-house and comes in two capacities in the global markets viz 52.9 kWh and 69.9 kWh. However, Malaysia is most likely to get the bigger unit offering a driving range of 420 km.

Leap Pilot Driving Assistance

The upcoming Leapmotor EV also features the automaker’s Leap Pilot Driving Assistance pack, including 17 active driver assistance functions, which offers Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities backed by 12 high-precision sensors. It is likely to include lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automated braking, and other advanced gears. The EV is also equipped with seven airbags, including front, side, and side air curtains, ensuring maximum protection for occupants.

While C10 has not yet been crash-tested by any prestigious safety agencies, Stellantis expects the EV to get a five-star Euro NCAP rating soon.

Fully-equipped, family-centric D-segment EV

The Leapmotor C10 is a fully-equipped, family-centric D-segment vehicle, designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Designed to meet the needs of families, the five-seater EV features a cozy and spacious interior loaded with creature comforts like silicon leather seats, dual-zone auto air conditioning, and heated, ventilated, and electrically adjustable front seats. Advanced tech includes a 10.25-inch HD instrument cluster, a high-resolution 14.6-inch central console with navigation, a 360° camera, a 12-speaker HiFi surround system, a panoramic sunroof with electric sunshade, and wireless charging.

Rival BYD Atto 3 and Proton e.Mas 7

While the Leapmotor C10 is similar to the Proton X90 and Chery Tiggo 8 Pro in terms of size, it is set to compete against the BYD Atto 3 and Proton eMas 7 in the electric vehicle space. The BYD Atto 3 is also a Chinese EV that recently received an upgrade in Malaysia; the upgraded Atto 3 comes in a sole Extended Range trim, priced at RM 149,800. The Proton e.Mas 7, on the other hand, is set to launch as the first Malaysian-brand EV by the end of this year. It is co-developed with Geely E5 and features the world's leading 12-in-1 intelligent electric propulsion system with cell-to-body battery architecture.

That’s all for now. For further updates on the Leapmotor C10 launch and pricing details, stay tuned with us.

Also read: Malaysia-bound Jetour SUVs now in South Africa; here’s all you need to know