In Brief
Leapmotor’s B03, the new Chinese compact electric hatchback, is gearing up to take on the Renault 4 E-Tech in Europe. Bigger and more ambitious than the T03, it offers power options up to 121 horsepower and an official range of 405 to 510 km (CLTC), roughly 300 to 400 km WLTP. With features like rapid charging and a roomy cabin, the B03 could debut at the Paris Motor Show, signaling Leapmotor’s bid to stand tall against European rivals in the compact-electric space.
The Chinese automaker is preparing the arrival of a city car capable of challenging Renault 4 E-Tech and Kia EV2. It’s the Leapmotor B03, also known in China as Leapmotor A05. Its market launch is imminent in China and won’t be long before Europe follows. Here’s what you should know.
Leapmotor with Ambitious Goals
Leapmotor is making headway in China. Not yet on par with BYD or Geely, the brand is steadily building a broader lineup. Here is the full-sized city car A05 in China, which will be renamed B03 for Europe.
Better positioned and more mature, this city car could replace in Europe the T03, the brand’s affordable electric model backed by Stellantis. Stellantis’ plan was to import the T03 and assemble it in Poland to qualify for France’s ecological bonus. However, French authorities tweaked the bonus rules to exclude vehicles assembled in Europe from kits imported from China.
As a result, the Leapmotor T03 found limited traction in France and Europe overall, though it did spark some attention in Italy. Leapmotor is now preparing to launch the B03 in Europe. As the name suggests, it could eventually displace the T03 in the compact-city segment.
A True Compact
The Leapmotor B03 is considerably larger than the T03. While the T03 sits in micro-hatchback territory—think upcoming Renault Twingo or Dacia Spring—the B03 targets the compact class, akin to the Renault 4 E-Tech.
It measures 4.20 meters long, 1.80 meters wide, and 1.56 meters tall, with a 2.61-meter wheelbase. That makes it a touch bigger than the Renault 4 E-Tech. Drivers will be able to choose between 94- and 121-horsepower motors, paired with LFP batteries rated at 39.8 kWh or 53 kWh. Official CLTC ranges span 405–510 km (approximately 251–317 miles), translating to about 300–400 km (186–249 miles) under WLTP. In China, claims include charging from 30% to 80% in as little as 16 minutes.
The B03 could debut in Europe at the Paris Motor Show this fall. In China, it features a 14.6-inch central touchscreen, an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, and a trunk room of 474 liters.
Comparison Table
| Model | Dimensions (L x W x H, m) | Wheelbase (m) | Power (hp) | Battery (kWh) | CLTC Range (km) | Estimated WLTP Range (km) | 30–80% Charge | Trunk (L) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leapmotor B03 | 4.20 × 1.80 × 1.56 | 2.61 | 94 or 121 | 39.8 or 53 | 405–510 | 300–400 | 16 min | 474 |
Key Takeaways
- Leapmotor is preparing to launch the B03 in Europe after the mixed reception of the T03.
- The B03 targets the electric compact segment, competing with Renault 4 E-Tech and Kia EV2.
- It claims CLTC ranges of 405–510 km (roughly 251–317 miles), corresponding to about 300–400 km (186–249 miles) WLTP.
- Fast charging can boost from 30 to 80% in around 16 minutes.
- Interior equipment includes a 14.6-inch central touchscreen and a roomy 474-liter trunk.
- European introduction could take place at the Paris Auto Show.
FAQ
What are the main features of the Leapmotor B03?
The B03 offers two motor options (94 hp or 121 hp), two battery capacities (39.8 kWh or 53 kWh), and a CLTC range of 405–510 km.
Will the Leapmotor B03 be available in Europe?
Yes — European launch is planned soon and could be announced at the Paris Motor Show.
What is the B03’s fast-charging time?
From 30% to 80% battery in just 16 minutes, per Chinese specifications.
What interior features does the B03 offer?
A 14.6-inch central touchscreen, an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 474-liter trunk.
How does the B03 differ from the T03?
The B03 is larger and aimed at the compact segment, whereas the T03 is a micro-hatchback.
