Leapmotor C10 enters South African market as range-extender electric vehicle

Stellantis subsidiary introduces Chinese-made crossover with petrol engine that charges batteries rather than drives wheels.

Leapmotor, a Chinese vehicle manufacturer now operating as a subsidiary of Stellantis, has launched the C10 Range Extender Electric Vehicle in South Africa, targeting the mid-size crossover segment with technology similar to BMW's i3 REX introduced in 2013¹².

The range-extender system combines petrol and electric motors, but differs from conventional hybrids in that the petrol engine serves only to charge the electric batteries while the electric motor alone powers the wheels¹².

Two models are available: the Style at R759,900 and the Design at R799,900¹². The vehicle measures 4,739mm in length and accommodates five passengers, with boot capacity of 435 litres expandable to 1,410 litres when rear seats are folded¹².

The cabin features a minimalist design centered on a large touchscreen display and digital instrument cluster¹². Access to the vehicle requires tapping a Near Field Communication plastic card against the driver's door mirror, as the system does not include remote locking functionality¹².

Reviewers noted the card-based entry system requires using the driver's door even when accessing rear seats, though a standard electric tailgate with release button is fitted¹².

Stellantis distributes Jeep, Fiat, Opel, Citroën and Peugeot brands in South Africa¹². The C10 represents the company's entry into the market through its Leapmotor subsidiary, bringing Chinese electric vehicle technology to the Southern African automotive sector.