In the ever-evolving world of electric vehicles, Leapmotor's recent moves in the Australian market are a fascinating case study. The brand's decision to refresh its C10 model, a mid-size SUV, is an intriguing strategy that warrants a deeper look.
The Leapmotor C10 Refresh: A New Look and a Boost in Performance
The refreshed C10, which made its debut in China alongside updates to the C11 and C16, sports a new face inspired by the B10, a smaller model in Leapmotor's lineup. This redesign includes a split-level lighting setup, with slim daytime running lights and vertically oriented headlights. The C10 also introduces new alloy wheel designs and a unique Cloud Gold paint option, a feature that's becoming increasingly popular among Chinese-market vehicles to indicate semi-autonomous driving capabilities.
Inside, the C10 offers a new Sandstone Brown colorway and ambient lighting, adding a touch of luxury to the cabin. But the real story lies under the hood, or rather, beneath the floorboards. The electric version of the C10 now boasts an impressive 81.9kWh battery, a significant upgrade from the previous 69.9kWh. This increase in battery capacity translates to an extended range of 290km under the CLTC cycle for the extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) version.
A Limited Edition with a Powerful Punch
Earlier this year, Leapmotor made waves by launching a limited-edition C10 AWD Sports+ Special Edition. With only 50 units earmarked for Australia, this exclusive model featured a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, delivering a whopping 440kW/760Nm. This setup, combined with an 81.9kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery and an 800V electrical architecture, resulted in an impressive WLTP range of 437km, despite the higher outputs and weight.
Market Performance and Brand Popularity
Despite Leapmotor's popularity in China, the C10 hasn't quite caught on in Australia. Sales figures for the first five months of 2025 show a decline of 2.0% compared to the same period last year, with just 244 units delivered. This pales in comparison to competitors like the BYD Sealion 7, Geely EX5, and even the Deepal S07. Even the smaller B10, while performing slightly better, is outsold by the BYD Atto 2 and MG S5 EV.
What Does This Mean for Leapmotor's Future in Australia?
The refresh of the C10, along with the limited-edition release, suggests that Leapmotor is committed to the Australian market. However, the brand's struggle to gain traction against established competitors raises questions about its long-term strategy. Will Leapmotor be able to turn things around and capture a significant market share? Only time will tell, but for now, the brand's future in Australia remains an open question.
Final Thoughts
The Leapmotor story is a reminder that the electric vehicle market is highly competitive, with established players and new entrants vying for consumer attention. While Leapmotor's refresh and limited-edition release are impressive, the brand must address its sales performance if it hopes to make a lasting impact in the Australian market.
