Leapmotor B10 debuts as Mzansi's least expensive range-extended EV

Stellantis-backed Chinese brand Leapmotor is expanding downwards with its new B10 ‘Hybrid EV’, which has become the country's least expensive range-extended electric vehicle (REEV).

It’s available in two variants, with the B10 Style priced at R499,900 and the B10 Design retailing at R549,900, effectively undercutting the base price of the larger Leapmotor C10 by R275,000.

Like its C10 sibling, the B10’s wheels are turned exclusively by an electric motor, which in this case produces 158kW.

While REEVs are sometimes considered to be “the best of both worlds”, there are various pros and cons. In this case, an 18.8kWh battery allows a claimed electric range of 86km, which is significantly shorter than a typical EV range. The upside, however, is that its 1.5-litre petrol engine, which acts purely as a generator, extends the driving range to around 900km.

Customers of the new B10 can choose from five exterior colours, including the ‘Starry Night Blue’ launch colour inspired by Van Gogh’s The Starry Night . There are also two interior themes to choose from.

Speaking of the cabin, the Leapmotor B10 features a 14.6-inch HD central touchscreen as well as a modern digital interface, seven airbags and 17 ADAS driver assistance systems. The safety argument is also backed up by a five-star Euro NCAP rating.

There’s also a Leapmotor app, which allows owners to remotely lock or unlock the vehicle, activate the air conditioning, check battery levels and driving range, monitor driving statistics, schedule charging and receive over-the-air software updates.

The vehicle is also sold with a five-year or 100,000km service plan and warranty.