Leapmotor has revealed its all-electric B01 saloon at the Auto Shanghai, marking the company’s first entry into the B-series sedan market. Designed for young, tech-savvy consumers, the B01 is expected to combine modern technology with an affordable price point, aiming to make a significant impact in China’s growing EV market.
The B01 features a length of 4.7 meters, a width of 1.8 meters, and a height of 1.4 meters, with a wheelbase measuring 2.7 meters. The saloon will be available with two drivetrain options: one offering 132 kW of power and the other 160 kW, though some reports indicate a higher powertrain option of 175 kW.
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The car offers two battery configurations: a 56.2 kWh option providing a range of up to 510 kilometers and a 67.1 kWh battery with a range of about 600 kilometers, according to China’s testing standards. However, other sources suggest the maximum range could extend to 650 kilometers. The B01’s battery capacity allows for fast charging, but details on the exact charging time have not been disclosed.
The B01 is available in eight colors, including ‘Morgan Pink,’ designed with women in mind, and offers a choice of two interior color schemes. It also features a 14.6-inch touchscreen with over-the-air updates and chrome elements, enhancing its tech-savvy appeal. The car’s aerodynamic design boasts a low drag coefficient of just 0.197Cd, outperforming high-end models like the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model S.
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Cao Li, Leapmotor’s senior vice-president, emphasized that the B01 was designed to meet the desires of young consumers, highlighting its modern design and features. The electric saloon is expected to be priced between €12,000 and €18,000 in China. Leapmotor has set ambitious sales targets, aiming to sell 40,000 units per month.
Although the B01’s future in Europe remains uncertain, Leapmotor plans to introduce six EVs to the continent by 2027, with a focus on smaller cars and SUVs, as saloons are less popular in the European market.