Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Leapmotor has launched the 2026 model year C16 SUV with a series of upgrades, including an optional five-seat layout, enhanced battery capacities, and more than 70 technical improvements. The vehicle is available in both battery electric vehicle (BEV) and extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) formats, with prices starting at 151,800 yuan (approximately €18,400).
The battery-electric version now rides on an 800V platform and includes a base 74.9 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, up from 67.7 kWh in the previous model, providing a CLTC range of 580 km. A higher-tier variant features an 81.9 kWh LFP battery offering up to 630 km of range. Both BEV configurations are equipped with a single rear-mounted motor producing 220 kW (295 hp).
The EREV variant incorporates a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated generator delivering 70 kW of output and supports two battery sizes—28.4 kWh and 38.7 kWh—enabling an electric-only range of 200 to 280 km. The rear-mounted motor in the EREV version delivers up to 170 kW (228 hp).
On the technology front, the new C16 adopts the Snapdragon 8295 system-on-chip, while select models feature LiDAR and a Qualcomm 8650 processor with computing capabilities of up to 100 trillion operations per second (TOPS). The vehicle is equipped with five mm-wave radars, twelve cameras, and twelve parking sensors, enabling a suite of advanced driver assistance features.
The SUV retains its exterior dimensions and key design elements, including a slim LED light strip, retractable door handles, and a pronounced front air intake. It measures 4.9 meters in length, 1.9 meters in width, and 1.8 meters in height, with a 2.8-meter wheelbase.
Interior upgrades include the introduction of a five-seat configuration alongside the existing six-seat layout. The five-seat version adds features such as ventilation, heating, and massage functions for four seats, and increases cargo capacity to 1,663 litres with the second row folded. Both configurations come standard with an 8.1-litre refrigerator that can heat or cool items.
The C16 is expected to enter European markets, although it is not yet confirmed whether the five-seat variant will be included in the international rollout. The updated model is positioned to strengthen Leapmotor’s competitive standing in the global EV market.