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Leapmotor C10: Stellantis brings new Chinese electric brand to South Africa
South Africa’s electric vehicle landscape is about to get a major jolt. Stellantis, the automotive group behind Jeep, Peugeot, Fiat, and Citroën, has confirmed that Leapmotor, a fast-rising Chinese EV brand, will officially debut locally this month.
For Stellantis South Africa, this marks a milestone. Leapmotor will be its first fully electric brand to launch in the country, part of a global push to expand its new-energy vehicle offerings.
A new player with powerful backing
Founded in 2015 by Chinese entrepreneur Jiangming Zhu, Leapmotor has quickly established itself as one of China’s more innovative electric carmakers, already selling over 600,000 vehicles worldwide. The brand aims to reach half a million annual sales by the end of 2025.
Stellantis, which owns a 20% stake in Leapmotor, will handle the local distribution through its existing dealer network. The company, formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler and France’s PSA Group, says the partnership underscores its commitment to cleaner mobility in Africa.
“South Africa is a key market for Stellantis,” said Mike Whitfield, managing director of Stellantis South Africa. “The launch of Leapmotor marks an important step in offering innovative vehicle options through product, innovation and partnerships.”
Electric innovation made for South Africa
What sets Leapmotor apart is its range-extended electric vehicle (REEV) technology. Unlike hybrids, REEVs use an electric drivetrain paired with a small petrol engine that doesn’t power the wheels directly but charges the battery when it runs low.
For South Africa, where charging stations remain limited and load-shedding remains part of daily life, this approach could be a game-changer. It eliminates range anxiety while keeping the car fully electric in operation.
“In South Africa, where energy challenges and limited charging infrastructure slow EV adoption, REEV offers a practical solution,” Stellantis said.
Meet the Leapmotor C10
The first model heading to South African showrooms is the Leapmotor C10, a midsize SUV aimed at the same segment as the VW Tiguan, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Territory.
Two versions are planned for launch:
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Battery-electric (BEV): 160kW motor, choice of 52.9kWh battery (around 410km range) or 69.9kWh battery (up to 530km).
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Range-extended (REEV): includes a 1.5-litre petrol generator and a 28.4kWh battery, offering roughly 145km of pure electric driving and up to 970km combined range.
Inside, the C10 is impressively modern, with features such as heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, wireless charging, dual digital displays, a 10.25-inch driver screen and a 14.6-inch infotainment system.
It even comes preloaded with apps like Spotify, though it notably lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.
EVs for real-world South Africa
Leapmotor joins a growing number of Chinese carmakers entering the South African market, but its Stellantis connection and its REEV technology may give it an advantage in adapting to local realities.
With many potential buyers still cautious about switching to electric vehicles due to unreliable infrastructure, the C10’s long range and hybrid flexibility make it an intriguing alternative.
While pricing and full specifications are yet to be confirmed, Stellantis says details will be revealed closer to launch. What’s certain is that the Leapmotor arrival signals a shift not just for Stellantis, but for South Africa’s evolving EV market.
Also read: Discovery partners with Oura to bring smart sleep-tracking rings to South Africa
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Source: Business Tech
Featured Image: The Driven
