Last updated: April 10, 2025 – Specs and availability reflect current data for the UK and EU markets.
China’s automotive industry has made a powerful leap — quite literally — into the European scene with the arrival of the Leapmotor C10 EREV 2025. And no, this isn’t just another electric SUV. This is a range-extended electric vehicle (EREV) with premium tech, futuristic design, and a surprisingly accessible price tag.
As part of Leapmotor’s strategic partnership with Stellantis, the C10 is their first global model and a direct rival to mainstream mid-size SUVs — offering the efficiency of an EV, without the range anxiety.
🚗 What is the Leapmotor C10 EREV?
The Leapmotor C10 is a mid-size SUV that uses EREV technology — combining a battery-powered electric motor with a petrol engine that acts only as a generator. The wheels are always driven by electricity, but the onboard petrol engine extends range when the battery runs low.
Think of it as an electric car with a safety net.
Key specs:
- Pure electric range: ~180 km (WLTP)
- Total range (with petrol): Over 800 km
- Battery capacity: 43.7 kWh
- Petrol engine: 1.5L (acts as generator only)
- Power output: 231 hp (170 kW)
- 0–100 km/h: ~7 seconds
How is EREV different from a hybrid?
Unlike a traditional hybrid, an EREV like the C10 never uses the petrol engine to drive the wheels — the combustion engine is used only to charge the battery when needed. That means a smoother, quieter, and more electric-like driving experience.
🧠 Why the C10 Matters
“EREVs offer a realistic bridge to full electrification, especially in regions with inconsistent charging infrastructure,” says Dr. Jin Wang, EV specialist at EV-Tech Europe. “The Leapmotor C10 represents a mature step in that direction.”
The C10 brings high-end features to a price-sensitive audience — something few European or Japanese brands are doing in this segment.
✨ Design & Dimensions
Built to compete with models like the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, and even Tesla Model Y, the Leapmotor C10 impresses with a sleek exterior and aerodynamic efficiency.
- Length: 4.74 m
- Wheelbase: 2.82 m
- Boot space: ~500L
- Drag coefficient: Just 0.29 Cd
Exterior highlights:
- Frameless doors
- Hidden door handles
- LED light bar front and rear
- 19” aerodynamic alloys
Interior design blends minimalism and premium touches, with a dual-screen layout and advanced voice controls.
💺 Comfort and Cabin Tech
Inside the C10, you’ll find class-leading tech features:
- 15.6” central screen + 10.25” driver display
- Voice assistant with ChatGPT integration
- AR navigation system
- Dual-zone climate, panoramic roof, ambient lighting
Is the Leapmotor C10 family-friendly?
Yes. With ample rear legroom, a flat floor, and a large boot, the C10 is perfect for families who want tech, space, and long-range flexibility.
🔋 Charging & Fuel Efficiency
One of the biggest strengths of the C10 is its range flexibility.
- Fast charging (DC): 30–80% in 27 minutes
- AC charging (home): ~6 hours
- Fuel tank capacity: 45L (used only to charge the battery)
- Combined efficiency: ~1.2 L/100 km (WLTP)
Can I drive the C10 without ever using petrol?
Yes — as long as you keep it charged, the petrol generator never activates. But it’s there when needed, making it ideal for long-distance trips or rural areas.
🛡️ Safety and Driver Assistance
Leapmotor is aiming high with Euro-focused safety standards. The C10 includes:
- L2+ assisted driving (adaptive cruise + lane centering)
- Emergency lane keeping
- 360° camera with parking assistant
- Driver monitoring system
- Blind-spot warning and automatic emergency braking
Euro NCAP testing is pending, but the C10 is engineered for full compliance and expected to receive high marks.
According to Nicolas Meunier, EV reviewer at Auto Plus:
“The C10 isn’t just another Chinese EV — it’s a serious contender, built with Euro-level standards in mind.”
🛒 Trim Levels and Market Position
Leapmotor plans to launch the C10 EREV in two versions for the European market:
- Comfort – Full tech suite, synthetic leather, 18” wheels
- Premium – 19” wheels, panoramic roof, upgraded audio, AR HUD
Expected UK/Europe starting price: around €39,000 before local incentives — placing it below most competitors with similar tech.
📊 How It Compares
| Feature | Leapmotor C10 EREV | Toyota RAV4 Hybrid | Tesla Model Y | Hyundai Tucson PHEV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EV Range (WLTP) | 180 km | 0 km (full hybrid) | 455 km | 62 km |
| Total Range | 800+ km | ~900 km | ~455 km | ~750 km |
| Boot Space | 500L | 580L | 854L | 558L |
| Starting Price (est.) | €39,000 | €44,000 | €52,990 | €45,000 |
🟢 Looking for full hybrids under €40K? See our diesel-hybrid guide
🟢 Explore the Tesla Model Y’s main competitors
✅ Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent EV-only range for daily commutes | Unknown brand in UK/EU market |
| Backup petrol generator for long trips | Euro NCAP rating pending |
| High-end tech for the price | Limited service network (at launch) |
| Sleek styling and quiet cabin | Smaller boot than some rivals |
🎯 Final Verdict: Is the Leapmotor C10 EREV Worth It?
If you’re EV-curious but not ready to go full electric, the Leapmotor C10 EREV is one of the smartest choices in 2025. It blends urban EV benefits with long-distance practicality, topped with sleek design and premium features — all at a price that undercuts legacy brands.
It’s also a sign of what’s to come: a new wave of competitive, tech-driven vehicles from China aiming to challenge the status quo in Europe.
🔗 Related Reads
- Tesla Model Y Competitors in 2025: Top 5 Alternatives
- Most Comfortable Small SUVs of 2025
- 2025 Citroën C3 Aircross Electric – Complete Review
✍️ About the Author – Alexander Hargreaves
Captivated by the future of mobility, Alexander Hargreaves blends technical insight with a passion for clean design and user-first innovation. His reviews cut through the marketing fluff, offering real-world evaluations of the latest car trends and technologies. From concept to commute, Alexander explores how the auto industry is reinventing the way we move.
