Brussels Motor Show: European first for Leapmotor C10 with range extender 

Leapmotor plans to make waves at the 101st Brussels Motor Show in January 2025 by unveiling its latest innovation: the C10 REEV (Range Extender Electric Vehicle). This marks the first introduction of Leapmotor’s REEV technology in Europe as the company seeks to expand its presence in the growing EV and hybrid markets.

Leapmotor enlarges its electric offering with the C10 REEV, as the Chinese are choosing the hybrid route to shake off weak customer demand for battery-electric vehicles and import tariffs. With its serial hybrid approach, the C10 with range extender follows in the footsteps of the Nissan Qashqai e-Power and the Mazda MX30 R-EV, a formula that has protracted underwhelming sales so far.

Almost 1,000 km of range

So, the C10 REEV always drives electric but without charging needs, as its gasoline-powered driveline provides the electricity as a generator. At the system’s core sits a 158 kW (215 HP) electric motor paired with a 1.5-liter internal combustion engine, which recharges a 28.4 kWh battery.

This configuration delivers an all-electric range of 145 kilometers (WLTP) and a total autonomy of over 950 kilometers when the combustion engine kicks in, aiming for the versatility of both urban commutes and long-distance travel.

The C10 REEV is designed to optimize efficiency and reduce emissions. In combined mode, it consumes just 0.4 liters per 100 kilometers and has CO2 emissions as low as 10 grams per kilometer (WLTP). The vehicle also features an advanced energy management system, allowing drivers to switch between energy modes to prioritize electric driving or maximize power, depending on their needs.

Supports grid charging

Another highlight of the C10 REEV is its charging convenience, as its battery can be replenished by connecting to the grid. The SUV supports both AC and DC fast charging, enabling the battery to recover 50% of its electric range in just 18 minutes. This ensures drivers can quickly recharge and continue their journey with minimal downtime.

Introducing the C10 REEV, which complements Leapmotor’s existing range: the compact T03 and the all-electric C10 SUV. It will be available for order in Germany starting next month. As part of the Stellantis group, the model will appear in the car giant’s dealer network.

While range extender vehicles are experiencing significant growth in China (in 2023, EREV sales reached 640,000 units, marking a 181% increase from the previous year), their adoption in Europe remains limited.

The EU’s stringent carbon emissions reduction policies, including the planned 2035 ban on the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles, have incentivized manufacturers and consumers to focus more on BEVs.

However, as subsidies are evaporating and EV adoption is hampered by low resale values and the resurgence of range anxiety, renewed consumer preferences might spark interest in this technology.