Leapmotor hits 500k production milestone; 100k vehicles produced in just 100 days

KUALA LUMPUR: Leapmotor, the latest Chinese player in Malaysia's EV market, has recently reached a significant global production milestone. The automaker has rolled off its 500,000th mass-produced vehicle from the assembly line.

The company produced 100,000 vehicles in just over 100 days, going from its 400,000th vehicle to its 500,000th vehicle in that time frame. This impressive feat highlights its rapid growth and efficiency in manufacturing.

If we talk about sales numbers, Leapmotor sold over 30,000 units in both August and September, with more than 10,000 units sold in the just last week of September. 

The 500,000th milestone vehicle was the brand’s new model, the C16. Launched in June this year, the EV grabbed more than 10,000 orders within the first month of availability. The C16 is an MPV with SUV-inspired looks that comes in both fully electric and extended-range versions in China.

The fully electric motor features a powerful motor and a 67.7 kWh battery, offering a maximum range of 520 km while the extended range variant combines a 1.5-litre engine and an electric motor for a combined range of 1,095 km.

Founded in 2015, Leapmotor is a Chinese startup specialised in developing electric vehicles. For the distribution and production of Leapmotor cars in global markets, the automaker signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Stellantis last year and formed Leapmotor International JV.

Leapmotor International began its operations in Europe last month with plans to expand into India, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, and South America starting in the fourth quarter.

Leapmotor EVs in Malaysia

Leapmotor currently offers the C10 electric SUV in Malaysia in a sole Design variant, priced at RM 149,000. It is a D-segment SUV, powered by a 218 PS/320 Nm single electric motor and a 69.9 kWh battery pack offering a range of 424 km.

After the C10, the Chinese automaker is geared up to introduce a compact EV, the T03, in Malaysia. It is a small and affordable electric hatchback featuring an e-motor good for making 95 PS and 158 Nm. The motor is fed by a 37.3 kWh battery, offering a driving range of approx 265 km.

Stellantis Malaysia is yet to announce the Leapmotor T03 launch timeline.

Also read: Stellantis Malaysia opens new multi-brand showroom on Old Klang Road