Leapmotor B03X Launches in the Autumn

Whilst I don’t fully understand the naming convention of Leapmotor models, with the T03 being their smallest offering, and the B10 being their largest offering to date; the all-new B03X is their second smallest car that’s about to enter the U.K. market. Make it make sense Leapmotor!

However, despite this, the partly owned Stellantis brand is entering the race with a Vauxhall Frontera competitor which, unlike its step-sibling, is built on a ground-up EV platform.

Price

Over in Europe, this B-Segment crossover starts at a very competitive €24,900 that’s marketed as a “smart Urban Crossover for modern life”, but it is tech driven which should appeal to like-minded customers. U.K. prices are yet to be revealed, but I suspect swapping the Euro sign for a Pound sign might be a reasonable indication of price.

Practicality

At 4.2 meters in length it rivals the likes of the new KIA EV2 and Škoda Epiq as well as Stellantis brands from Vauxhall, Citroen and Peugeot.

Leapmotor are selling this new car as somewhat of a city dweller, or townie, but without compromising on space and practicality. But, don’t expect be taken in by the X suffix in its name because this isn’t designed for Greenlaning. The B03X is a front-wheel drive car only.

However, what it does offer is a flexible seating system, flat cargo floor and multiple storage solutions that fit into a family lifestyle well, whilst being a good commuter car.

Interior

Inside, the cabin follows a minimalist approach to create a clutter free environment devoid of buttons, trinkets and trivia but with a focus on intuitive interaction designed to minimise distraction. Some will hate it for this, whilst others will relish in its simplistic approach.

The B03X receives Leapmotor’s latest digital ecosystem, utilising the Leap OS 4.0 operating system, that enables what Leapmotor describes as “seamless connectivity” with full smartphone integration for accessing the vehicle remotely.

Battery, Range and Charging

The B03X is built on Leapmotor’s next-generation CTC2.0 Plus (Cell-to-Chassis) short-cell battery system, that reduces weight, build complexity and cost whilst enabling greater interior packaging and enhanced energy efficiency.

There will be two LFP battery options: a 39.8 kWh battery delivering up to 181 miles of range on the WLTP combines test cycle, and a 53.0 kWh battery that delivers up a modest 237 miles of WLTP range.

However, with both versions using LFP cells, it means customers should regularly charge to 100% allowing that full range to be available after each charge.

Leapmotor states that DC rapid charging from 30% to 80% takes around 16 minutes, although most manufacturers quote a 10% to 80% charge time, so expect the B03X to take under 30 minutes in this scenario. It’s perfectly acceptable, but not as ground-breaking as initially suggested.

Powertrain

Both models receive a 197 hp, 200 Nm front-mounted electric motor providing a good balance of power and torque in a compact car designed for urban life. 0-62 mph takes an agreeable 8.6 seconds from a standstill.

For a small family runabout, it doesn’t leave drivers wanting, but this isn’t designed for performance, so Leapmotor have struck a good balance here. However, thirty years ago this would have been considered quick.

Conclusion

To keep things simple - like their interior - the B03X comes in two trim levels; the LIFE and DESIGN.

But, what’s interesting here is a modest drivable range given the likes of the new Škoda Epiq that offers 272 miles of range from a slightly smaller battery pack.

It means the price and finance options will determine the success or failure of this new Leapmotor. Although, will some be put off by a range that is seemingly not from 2026. Should customers be expecting nearly 300 miles in the latter part of this decade? Perhaps.

However, this is a welcome departure from the normal Stellantis approach of multi-fuel platforms, and it illustrates how far Leapmotor are ahead of their step-parent company in building ground up EVs.
And in this regard, Leapmotor takes the lead over Stellantis by demonstrating exactly how EVs should be built. Bravo.

The Leapmotor B03X goes on sale in the Autumn, with more information on prices and dates revealed nearer the time.

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About the Author

Graeme Cobb is a lifelong car enthusiast with a passion for writing about cars, EVs, industry updates and more. You can find Graeme on 𝕏 at @graeme_cobb