LEAPMOTOR C10

Stellantis-backed Chinese newcomer looks to offer a Tesla for 10k less

- KRIS CULMER

It might seem odd to you that a new brand should start off with two totally disparate products. But it begins to make sense when you realise that Leapmotor's T03 city car enters a class for which there is great demand yet vanishing supply; and that its C10 is pitched right at the world's best-selling car, the Tesla Model Y, while costing £10k less.

Leapmotor execs make much of the young Chinese EV firm's 'cell-tochassis' design approach, claiming that it improves the battery layout, leaves more space for passengers and increases torsional rigidity (consequently benefiting ride and handling), all while reducing production costs.

The one available powertrain combines a rear-mounted 215bhp motor and a 69.9kWh battery, which gives it a range of 262 miles - a huge 111 miles less than the Model Y.

Leapmotor's claim of outstanding passenger space is proven when you step inside. There's miles of rear leg room and nor is head room an issue.