Leapmotor: Redefining Electric Vehicle Access in Mexico with Range, Reliability, and Value
Leapmotor, a rapidly growing automotive brand with over a million customers globally, is poised to disrupt teh Mexican car market with a unique approach to electric vehicle adoption. Addressing the common concern of “range anxiety,” Leapmotor isn’t solely focused on battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), but instead utilizes Range Extender Electric Vehicle (REEV) technology.
REEV technology centers around an electric motor driving the vehicle in most situations, complemented by a small gasoline engine. Crucially, this engine only functions as a generator to recharge the battery, never directly powering the wheels. This allows drivers to enjoy the benefits of electric driving for daily commutes while eliminating range concerns on longer journeys.
Leapmotor models boast impressive ranges thanks to this innovative system. The largest SUV offered promises a combined range of up to 1,950 kilometers before requiring either a recharge or refueling - a figure unmatched in the affordable vehicle segment.
This ambitious entry into the Mexican market is underpinned by a significant strategic investment from Stellantis, the automotive conglomerate owning brands like Jeep and Fiat, who acquired a controlling stake in Leapmotor in 2023. Stellantis will provide crucial infrastructure and support for Mexican customers, including a developing dealer network, a robust after-sales service with readily available spare parts, and a comprehensive warranty of up to eight years.
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of Leapmotor’s offering is its pricing. The compact SUV, the B10, will be available for under 600,000 pesos, while the midsize C10 will cost less than 700,000 pesos. These prices position Leapmotor vehicles as highly competitive, even against established hybrid models currently sold in Mexico.
Leapmotor will initially launch three SUV models utilizing REEV technology in Mexico in 2026. The Leapmotor B10 (Compact), measuring 4.5 meters, features a 1.5-liter engine as a generator, offering 90 kilometers of pure electric range and a total range of 950 kilometers. The Leapmotor C10 (Medium), at 4.7 meters, delivers 145 kilometers of electric range and a combined range of 1,119 kilometers, with increased power. the Leapmotor C16 (Family) is the largest model, accommodating six or seven passengers with three rows of seating, and achieves a combined range of 1,195 kilometers.
Leapmotor’s arrival signals a significant shift towards greater accessibility of electric vehicles in Mexico.The combination of REEV technology, addressing range concerns, a strong partnership with Stellantis ensuring reliable support, and aggressively competitive pricing, demonstrates a commitment to delivering tangible solutions rather than simply making promises. 2026 will be a pivotal year, revealing how this strategy reshapes the Mexican automotive landscape and promotes cleaner, more economical transportation options.
