Stellantis announced that it will begin selling Leap Motor’s T03 small electric car and C10 mid-sized SUV in Europe starting September. The first batch of these electric vehicles is already being shipped from China to Europe.
Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares stated that last year the company bought a 1.5 billion euros stake in Leap Motor and owns 51% of Leap Motor International. Leap Motor International is a joint venture between Stellantis and Leap Motor, responsible for selling and potentially producing Leap Motor cars outside China.
During a July 25 earnings call, Tavares confirmed that 800 Leap Motor vehicles are currently being transported, though he did not specify the models. Stellantis also confirmed that its Tychy plant in Poland has started producing parts for the Leap Motor T03 and plans to manufacture more Leap Motor models in Europe in the future.
Until early November, Leap Motor cars imported from China will face additional EU tariffs. However, assembling cars in Europe may reduce these costs.
Tavares mentioned that Leap Motor cars will be integrated into Stellantis’ parts and distribution system. Many dealers are interested in selling these cars, and Stellantis will offer financing options to buyers.
In Europe, Leap Motor cars will compete with Stellantis brands like Citroën and Fiat. This year, Stellantis brands including Citroën, Fiat, Opel, and Vauxhall will launch new electric models based on a low-cost platform, with prices starting below 25,000 euros.
Leap Motor will start selling in nine European markets, including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain. The Leap Motor T03 will compete with Chinese rivals such as the Renault Dacia Spring and BYD Seagull, both priced below 20,000 euros. The Leap Motor C10 will compete with the Tesla Model Y and Volkswagen ID.4.
Tavares also noted that Stellantis is considering whether to offer Leap Motor’s range-extended hybrid cars in Europe, depending on local regulations. Vehicles with this powertrain will also face EU tariffs.