Leapmotor T03 EV coming to Malaysia; here’s what to expect?

Get ready, Malaysia! Yet another Chinese automaker Leapmotor is about to electrify the local streets with its first EV, the sleek and premium C10, which is slated to launch in October 2024. But that's not all – right on its heels, Leapmotor will introduce the more affordable T03 in the Malaysian market.

Also read: 5 things to know about the upcoming Leapmotor C10 EV

For those unfamiliar with it, Leapmotor is a young Chinese startup that has been selling cars in China since 2018. It signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Stellantis last year and formed Leapmotor International JV in which Stellantis holds 51% stake. This Joint venture focuses on exporting cars to overseas markets, including Malaysia. Stellantis Malaysia will look after the distribution of Leapmotor EVs in the country.

Coming back to the Leapmotor T03, it is a small and affordable electric hatchback featuring a modern aesthetic and state-of-the-art technological features. It is a five-door, four-seater vehicle that is said to be “ideal for urban mobility.” 

So, what all we can expect from the upcoming Leapmotor EV, let’s check it out.

Leapmotor T03 Dimensions

The Leapmotor T03 is a compact EV measuring 3,620 mm in length, 1,652 mm in width, and 1,605 mm in height and spans a wheelbase of 2,400 mm. Compared to other electric hatchbacks in Malaysia such as the Neta V and BYD Dolphin, the Leapmotor EV is significantly shorter, thus offering easy manoeuvrability and parking in tight spaces. Despite its smaller size, it still provides a decent wheelbase, ensuring adequate interior comfort for passengers. 

Dimensions	Leapmotor T03	Neta V	BYD Dolphin
Length	3,620 mm	4070 mm	4,290 mm
Width	1,652 mm	1690 mm	1,770 mm
Height	1,605 mm	1540 mm	1,570 mm
Wheelbase	2,400 mm	2,420 mm	2,700 mm

Leapmotor T03 Exterior 

The Leapmotor T03 caters to the needs of younger, style-orientated drivers with its compact and distinctive exterior design. The two-tone colour design boasts a curved front face, a panoramic sunroof, and 15-inch aluminium alloy wheels.

In terms of lighting, the EV is equipped with advanced LED systems, including sharp LED daytime running lights with automatic mode and a "Guide Me Home" function. The rear LED taillights feature an eye-catching, angular design, adding to the overall appeal. The heated, power-adjustable side mirrors of the EV also feature LED turn signals. Overall, the vehicle is equipped with 74 LED units which light up quickly and offer an improved warning effect.

Leapmotor T03 Interior 

While the T03 is a compact car, it promises enhanced comfort to every passenger with 960 mm of rear headroom and 950 mm of front headroom. The cabin features a bright and fresh environment thanks to the full panoramic sunroof which comes with an electric sunshade. 

Speaking of cutting-edge technologies, the Euro-spec Leapmotor T03 comes with an 8-inch LCD instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch highly intuitive touchscreen head unit, allowing the driver to manage the infotainment, navigation, telephone, and voice control easily. The EV also incorporates a multifunction steering wheel equipped with ADAS, Bluetooth, and voice-control buttons offering a safe and comfortable driving experience.

Leapmotor T03 Powertrain 

Powered by an in-house developed electric system, the Leapmotor T03 comes in three e-motor versions - 54 PS, 75 PS, and 109 PS and three battery options - 21.6 kWh, 31.9 kWh, and 41.3 kWh in the Chinese market. The top speed is limited to 100 kmph.

However, in Malaysia, it is likely to get the same single front-mounted electric motor offered in the European market. The said mill generates a maximum power of 95 PS and a peak torque of 158 Nm. As for the battery pack, we can expect a 37.3 kWh battery, offering a range of approx 265 km based on the WLTP testing standard. 

The T03 has three driving modes viz.

• Eco: Focuses on efficiency with smoother power and stronger regenerative braking.
• Sports: Offers faster power response with moderate regenerative braking.
• Standard: Balances efficiency and performance with softer regenerative braking.

Along with that, customers also get three steering assistance modes - Comfort (increases assistance for easier handling), Sports (reduces steering power for precise control), and Standard (a balanced steering experience).

Leapmotor T03 Charging 

The upcoming Leapmotor EV supports Type 2 and CCS2 connectors, with onboard 6.6 kW AC and 48 kW DC chargers. The former juices up the battery from 30% to 80% in 3.5 hours, however, the DC fast charging can do the same job in just 36 minutes.

Leapmotor T03 Suspension and braking

The compact Chinese EV utilises MacPherson struts at the front and a rear roll and torsion bar in one combined system at the rear. According to the automaker, this setup “ensures balanced weight between the axles (close to the ideal ratio of 1:1) and provides stable and comfortable driving both in urban use and on longer journeys.” The braking duties are handled by front and rear ventilated discs and an electric parking brake.

Leapmotor T03 Safety

The Leapmotor T03 boasts a strong body-cage structure designed for maximum safety. The vehicle’s body comprises 60% high-strength steel that can absorb collision energy. 

The Euro-spec model is equipped with three cameras, two millimetre-wave radars, and three ultrasonic radars, enabling up to 10 advanced driver-assistance features for L2-level intelligent driving. These include - adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, driver drowsiness warning, door opening warning, blind spot detection, and more. We can expect the same level of advanced safety technology for the Malaysia-bound version.

In a nutshell, the upcoming Leapmotor T03 appears to be an exciting option for those looking to go electric without breaking the bank. What do you think?

Also read: Leapmotor B10 to make global debut soon; here’s what we know so far