New Electric Car Brand Launching in South Africa This Month
Stellantis South Africa is introducing a new electric vehicle (EV) brand to the local market, with Chinese automaker Leapmotor set to launch this October — marking the brand’s first entry into South Africa.
The rollout forms part of Stellantis’ global strategy to expand its range of electric and hybrid vehicles. The company, which owns brands such as Fiat, Jeep, Peugeot, Opel, Citroën, Alfa Romeo, and Maserati, holds a 20% stake in Leapmotor and will distribute the vehicles through its existing dealer network.
Who Is Leapmotor?
Founded in 2015 by Chinese entrepreneur Jiangming Zhu, Leapmotor began selling cars in 2019 and has already sold over 600,000 vehicles. The brand is targeting annual sales of 500,000 units this year as it expands globally.
Why It Matters for South Africa
According to Stellantis South Africa MD Mike Whitfield, introducing Leapmotor locally supports the group’s push toward new energy vehicles and provides customers with innovative, practical EV options.
A key focus for Leapmotor is its Range-Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV) technology — combining a fully electric drivetrain with a small petrol engine that acts only as a generator to recharge the battery, rather than drive the wheels.
Stellantis says this setup directly addresses South Africa’s limited charging infrastructure and ongoing energy challenges, offering a “real-world solution” for drivers seeking lower emissions without range anxiety.
First Model: Leapmotor C10
The first model launching locally will be the Leapmotor C10, a midsize SUV positioned against competitors like the VW Tiguan, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Territory.
The C10 BEV (battery-electric version) will offer:
The REEV version adds:
-
A 1.5-litre petrol generator
-
A 28.4kWh battery with 145km pure-electric range
-
A combined range of about 970km
This extended range could make the REEV especially appealing to drivers outside major urban areas.
Interior and Features
Inside, the C10 will include heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and dual digital displays — a 10.25-inch driver screen and a 14.6-inch infotainment system with built-in apps such as Spotify (but no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto).
Local pricing and specifications will be confirmed closer to the official launch.
A Growing EV Landscape
Leapmotor’s arrival strengthens South Africa’s growing list of Chinese automakers entering the market. However, its partnership with Stellantis and focus on range-extended technology could make it one of the most practical EV entrants yet for local conditions.
Do you need a Quote for our Tax and Accounting Services?
Contact our team via any of the following channels to get a proposal for your accounting and tax services:
Subscribe to our newsletters.
Purchase Contract TEMPLATES and BUSINESS STATIONERY at www.ZEELIEONLINE.com
Disclaimer:
The views or opinions expressed on this site are solely those of the original authors and other contributors.
The material and information contained on this website is for general information purposes only.
This information is for general purposes only. Don't use this information for making business, legal and tax decisions without consulting a professional.
We do not make any express or implied representation, as to the completeness or accuracy of the information published.
Tax law regularly changes, so any tax information on this site could become outdated.
We are not responsible for any other websites that you may access through links on our website.
ZPA accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising from the use of any material on this site.
