Affordable Electric Vehicle Launch by Leapmotor: New Model Competes with Tesla's Model 3 at Half the Cost, Aiming for Global Market Expansion
Leapmotor, a Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer backed by Stellantis, has officially launched its new electric midsize sedan, the B01. The vehicle was developed based on the company's upgraded architecture, Leap3.5, and is designed to compete in the global EV market.
The B01 was unveiled at a press conference held in Hangzhou, China on July 24, 2025. Cao Li, Leapmotor's senior vice-president, expressed confidence that the new car has largely exceeded market expectations. Deliveries of the B01 to mainland Chinese customers began this month.
The B01 is priced from 89,800 yuan (US$12,542) in mainland China, offering features similar to Tesla's Model 3 at a price less than half that of the Model 3. The vehicle is available in five variants, with driving ranges from 430km to 650km.
The B01 is equipped with smart driving support and fast charging capabilities, thanks to Leap3.5. The batteries of the B01 can offer approximately 300km of mileage with just 18 minutes of charging.
Although Leapmotor has expressed intentions to target markets around the world as it seeks new growth engines, no details have been provided about when or where the B01 will be available internationally. As of July 2025, the B01 is only confirmed for sale in mainland China.
In summary, the B01 is currently only confirmed for sale in mainland China starting July 2025, with no disclosed launch plans for markets outside China yet. The top-end model of the B01 is priced at 119,800 yuan.
[1] Leapmotor Press Release, July 24, 2025. [2] China Daily, July 24, 2025. [3] South China Morning Post, July 24, 2025. [4] Reuters, July 24, 2025.
Leapmotor's B01, priced competitively with Tesla's Model 3, has entered the Chinese market equipped with smart driving support and fast charging capabilities. Despite the company aiming for global expansion, the international availability of the B01 remains undisclosed.
The B01's innovative technology and sports-like performance due to its long driving ranges make it an attractive option for both local and potential international sports car enthusiasts.
