Details of the Stellantis-Leapmotor C16 SUV have been leaked following the companies’ filing for a sales license with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). The C16 SUV is set to be a mid-to-large SUV offering two powertrain variants: battery electric vehicle (BEV) and extended-range electric vehicle (EREV). Featuring six seats, the new SUV is expected to compete with models like the Aito M7.
While the initial launch is slated for China, the Stellantis-Leapmotor collaboration intends to enter the global market, with rumors suggesting plans for releases in Poland and Malaysia.
Stellantis recently obtained approval for its joint venture with Leapmotor from China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), establishing Leapmotor International. Stellantis has invested €1.5 billion in Leapmotor, acquiring a 20% stake in the Chinese carmaker.
Last year, Stellantis began bolstering its presence in China, forming ties not only with Leapmotor but also with Chinese auto company Dongfeng.
The increasing dominance of Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) in the global market, driven by their competitive pricing, has raised concerns among European automakers about potential competition from Chinese EV companies on the continent.
Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares recently addressed the company’s stance on Chinese EVs in Europe, highlighting the need for strategic positioning in response to this evolving market landscape.
