Leapmotor B03 targets Europe to take on Renault 5 and Volkswagen ID. Polo

Leapmotor’s push into Europe is still gathering pace. Having already bolstered its presence in the C-segment with the B05, the Chinese manufacturer is now preparing to join the compact EV fight with the new B03, lining up against rivals such as the Renault 5 and the Volkswagen ID. Polo.

Positioning of the Leapmotor B03 in Europe

The Leapmotor B03 (sold in China under the A05 name) is expected to arrive in Europe in the final quarter of this year. In the range, it will sit between the T03 city car and the more family-focused B05, which we have already driven.

At 4.17 metres long with a 2.60-metre wheelbase, the B03 aims to stand out for passenger and luggage space, with dimensions that are slightly larger than many direct competitors.

Against the Renault 5, for instance, it is 25 cm longer and 7 cm taller, while also offering a wheelbase that is 6 cm greater. Compared with the Volkswagen ID. Polo, the wheelbase is similar and the height is comparable too, but the Leapmotor is 12 cm longer.

Space and practicality inside the Leapmotor B03

Inside the cabin, Leapmotor has put day-to-day usability first. The seating can be arranged in several ways (the front passenger seatback can fold down, and the rear seat base lifts fully), and there are multiple storage areas spread around the interior.

The boot includes a dual-level floor and, at the same time, provides 474 litres of capacity.

In styling terms, the B03 follows the brand’s latest design language, very close to what we have already seen on the B03X, which takes on a distinctly SUV-like stance.

And the range?

Leapmotor still has not confirmed the specifications for the European version, but it says the A05 as sold in China offers a range of up to 510 kilometres (figure subject to type approval) on the CLTC cycle - less demanding than the WLTP cycle used in Europe.

As for powertrains, in China the A05 is offered with two electric motors: one producing 70 kW (95 hp) and another with 90 kW (123 hp). These can be paired with two different batteries, with capacities of 40 kWh and 53 kWh.

In terms of technology, the Chinese-market model comes with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8295 processor, an 8.8-inch instrument display and a 14.6-inch central touchscreen. Those items are not expected to change for the version intended for Europe - unlike, for example, the LiDAR system fitted in the domestic market.

How much will it cost?

There are still no announced prices for Europe, where it is due to launch towards the end of this year. Even so, a look at Leapmotor’s current price list in this market suggests it will necessarily need to come in below the B05’s entry price, which starts at €24,500.