Why is Leapmotor Building Electric Cars in Spain?
If you’ve been watching the electric vehicle (EV) space, you might have noticed a new name popping up more often: Leapmotor. This Chinese brand isn’t just dipping its toes into the European market—they’re diving in headfirst, with plans to build cars right in Spain. But why Spain, and why now?
The answer comes down to strategy and timing. The European Union recently imposed a hefty 20.7% tariff on EVs imported from China. For Leapmotor, that’s a big chunk of change. By producing cars locally, they sidestep those tariffs entirely, making their vehicles more affordable for European buyers. It’s a move that’s as much about economics as it is about logistics.
Spain, with its established automotive industry and skilled workforce, offers a solid foundation. The Zaragoza plant—already home to models like the Peugeot 208 and Opel/Vauxhall Corsa—is rumored to be the likely site. Plus, Stellantis (the automotive giant behind brands like Peugeot, Fiat, and Jeep) owns a majority of Leapmotor’s international rights. Their CEO, Antonio Filosa, confirmed that Spain will be the launchpad for Leapmotor’s European manufacturing, starting in 2026.
Which Leapmotor Models Will Europeans Actually See?
So, what’s rolling off those Spanish assembly lines? The B10 crossover is the frontrunner. At 4.5 meters long, it’s squarely aimed at the heart of Europe’s C-segment—a sweet spot for families and commuters alike. Think of it as a direct rival to popular models like the Ford Explorer, but with a sharper price tag.
Hot on its heels is the B05 hatchback, a compact contender that could challenge the likes of the VW ID.3. Both vehicles are designed with European tastes in mind—sleek, practical, and efficient. And with the upcoming €4.1 billion gigafactory for LFP batteries (a joint venture between Stellantis and Chinese battery giant CATL) planned for the region, Leapmotor’s supply chain is about to get even more robust.
How Is Leapmotor Tailoring Its Cars for European Drivers?
Let’s be honest: breaking into the European market isn’t just about building cars—it’s about building the right cars. Leapmotor’s earlier models, like the T03 city car and C10 SUV, were designed before their partnership with Stellantis. They were solid, but not exactly tailored for European drivers.
That’s changing fast. Tianshu Xin, CEO of Leapmotor International, has made it clear that future models—starting with the B10 and B05—will benefit from Stellantis’s European R&D muscle. This means everything from driving dynamics to interior design is being fine-tuned for local preferences.
Xin put it best: “Being a brand making a car developed and produced in China, it takes time to understand European customer behaviour. Our job is to collect the feedback from customers and feed it into the engineering team, and they are able to fix and improve constantly.” The result? Cars that feel less like imports and more like they belong on European roads.
What Sets Leapmotor Apart from Other Chinese EV Brands?
It’s no secret that some Chinese automakers have struggled in Europe. Quality issues, parts shortages, and shaky dealer support have left buyers wary. Leapmotor is determined to avoid those pitfalls.
One big advantage: vertical integration. Leapmotor controls much of its own supply chain, from design to manufacturing. This means fewer headaches coordinating with outside suppliers, faster problem-solving, and—crucially—lower costs. As Xin explains, “It doesn’t have to communicate with supplier A, B, C to make things work on the car.”
There’s also Leapmotor’s tech pedigree. The company started out in electronics, giving it a head start in the software-driven world of EVs. That expertise translates into smarter, more reliable vehicles—something European buyers increasingly demand.
And let’s not forget the Stellantis connection. With one of the world’s largest automotive groups in its corner, Leapmotor gains instant credibility, access to established dealer networks, and a deep well of engineering know-how.
Will Leapmotor’s Pricing Strategy Shake Up the Market?
Price is where Leapmotor really hopes to turn heads. Both the C10 and B10 are expected to undercut rivals, offering features and range typically found in pricier models. By keeping costs low—thanks to local production and in-house manufacturing—Leapmotor can pass those savings on to customers.
This isn’t just about being the cheapest option, though. It’s about delivering real value. European car buyers are savvy; they want quality, reliability, and a fair price. Leapmotor’s approach could force established brands to rethink their own pricing and feature lists.
How Is Leapmotor Addressing Trust and Reliability Concerns?
Winning over European buyers means more than just offering a good deal. It’s about building trust. Leapmotor is investing heavily in aftersales support, dealer training, and transparent communication. They’re determined to avoid the “pain points” that have plagued other newcomers—like disappearing brands or long waits for spare parts.
Xin acknowledges there’s still work to do. Reflecting on Leapmotor’s first year in Europe, he said he was “happy to see the progress” but not yet satisfied. That drive for continuous improvement, combined with real-time feedback from European customers, is a promising sign.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Electric Cars in Europe?
Leapmotor’s move into Spain isn’t just another expansion story. It’s a sign of how quickly the EV landscape is changing. European buyers are getting more choices, better prices, and vehicles that are increasingly tailored to their needs.
With local production, strong backing from Stellantis, and a focus on quality and value, Leapmotor is positioning itself as a serious contender. If they can deliver on their promises, don’t be surprised if you see a lot more of their cars on European roads in the next few years.
The bottom line? The competition is heating up, and that’s good news for anyone in the market for an electric car. Keep an eye on Leapmotor—they might just be the next big thing in European EVs.