Leapmotor has confirmed that the C10 will soon be available in Australia with a range-extender powertrain, expanding the model's appeal beyond the fully-electric version that launched recently. This significant development marks the first time Leapmotor has offered a hybrid vehicle outside of its home market in China, following the brand's successful international launch in late 2024 with a focus on battery-electric vehicles in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Asia Pacific, and South America.
The C10 REEV, as it's known, incorporates a unique approach to hybrid technology. Unlike traditional plug-in hybrids where the internal combustion engine directly drives the wheels, the C10 REEV utilizes a 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine solely as a generator to extend the vehicle's range. This innovative system seamlessly integrates with the same 160kW electric motor found in the fully-electric C10, offering a compelling alternative for drivers seeking extended range and reduced reliance on charging infrastructure.
The C10 REEV boasts a 28.4kWh battery pack, significantly smaller than the 69.9kWh unit in the fully-electric model. This smaller battery enables an electric-only driving range of 145 kilometers under the European WLTP standard, providing sufficient range for daily commutes and shorter trips. However, the true strength of the C10 REEV lies in its extended overall range, exceeding 950 kilometers, while achieving impressive fuel economy figures of 0.4L/100km and CO2 emissions of just 10g/km.
While the C10 REEV maintains the same powerful electric motor, the integration of the range extender necessitates some adjustments. DC fast charging capability has been slightly reduced to 65kW compared to the 84kW capacity of the fully-electric model. However, Leapmotor emphasizes that the C10 REEV can still recover "half of its electric range" in approximately 18 minutes when connected to a 65kW DC fast charger, ensuring convenient and efficient recharging.
The arrival of the C10 REEV in Australia is anticipated in the first half of 2025, adding another compelling option to Leapmotor's growing product lineup. While Stellantis Australia, the local distributor for Leapmotor, has confirmed the European launch of the C10 REEV, they have yet to officially announce its availability in the Australian market.
The C10 REEV represents a significant step forward for Leapmotor, demonstrating the brand's commitment to offering diverse powertrain options to suit the varying needs and preferences of customers in different markets. With its innovative range-extender technology, the C10 REEV is poised to attract a new segment of customers seeking a compelling blend of electric driving range and extended overall driving capability.