Ahead of its launch next month, Stellantis Malaysia today held a media preview of the Leapmotor C10, a mid-sized D-segment fully electric (EV) SUV designed to compete against the Tesla Model Y. The model previously made its public ASEAN debut at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024.
Leapmotor is perhaps best known domestically in China for producing fairly affordable EVs. It was only in 2023, when Stellantis acquired a 20% stake in Leapmotor in a EUR1.5 billion deal leading to the formation of Leapmotor International (LMI, 51% owned by Stellantis) that the brand began its global expansion plans. Following Europe, Leapmotor is now making its way towards India and Asia Pacific countries – and among those, Malaysia will be the first market to launch the brand.
Detailed specifications of the model will not be disclosed until the C10’s official launch here in Malaysia, but Stellantis Malaysia has revealed that it will be offered only in a single-motor setup in our markets. Based on the global export model’s specification, the rear axle-mounted motor should deliver 218 hp and 320 Nm of torque, translating to a 0-100 km/h sprint in under 7.3 seconds.
Based on the range readout on the preview car, we are also expecting a 69.9 kWh battery pack, which should give the Leapmotor C10 approximately 420 km (WLTP) of driving range – although actual specifications will still have to wait until the official launch.
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Inside, the Leapmotor C10 adopts a twin floating screens setup for the infotainment display and the digital instrument cluster, measuring 14.6- and 10-inches respectively. The otherwise minimalist cabin is upholstered in either a tan or dark grey Oeke Tex material that is said to be water-resistant and dermatologist-tested safe for kids, in line with the C10’s family-friendly motto.
Other equipment highlights include 20-inch wheels, full-width headlights and tail lights, ambient lighting, wireless charging pad, ventilated and heated front seats, as well as a large panoramic glass roof with electric sunshade.
Leapmotor regards itself as an EV-maker that develops everything in-house, from electric powertrains to the software that powers their vehicles. The company says that this approach ensures better control in every aspect of production and adapts to market demands more effectively, while also being able to keep prices down.
Pricing information for the Leapmotor C10 has not been disclosed for Malaysia just yet, although Stellantis Malaysia has previously hinted that it’ll be affordably priced too, around the ballpark of other popular EV SUVs in the market.
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