Leapmotor Unveils Flagship D-Series Electric SUV, Targeting the RMB 300,000 Market
Leapmotor plans to venture into the premium market segment with the introduction of its D-series product range.
Leapmotor, the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, is set to launch its flagship D-series electric SUV, aiming to compete in the mid-to-high-end EV segment with a focus on advanced technologies, design, and performance. The new model, anticipated to be the largest full-size SUV in the Chinese market this year, will target the RMB 300,000 ($41,840) market.
Key features and technologies expected in the D-series SUV include:
- Powertrain and Performance: The SUV will be equipped with a robust electric motor likely rear-mounted, delivering power outputs in the range of 160 kW (approx. 215 hp), generating torque around 240 Nm. Battery options are anticipated to be between 56 kWh to 67 kWh, supporting balanced performance and long-range travel.
- Design and Aerodynamics: The SUV will boast a modern and aerodynamic "Gravity Field" design, characterized by a closed-off front grille, sleek LED DRLs, projector headlamps, coupe-inspired side profiles, flush door handles, aerodynamic alloy wheels (likely 18-inch or larger), and a continuous rear LED light bar. This combination of elegance and strong SUV proportions is designed to appeal to discerning buyers.
- Interior and Space: The D-segment SUV will offer a spacious interior with large legroom, enhanced by innovative "cell-to-chassis" battery integration to maximize space and improve driving dynamics. The SUV will accommodate four adults comfortably with reclining front and rear seats. A minimalist dashboard design with a large high-resolution touchscreen (around 14.6 inches) coupled with a driver display (~10.25 inches) will control navigation, climate, and infotainment.
- Advanced Driver Assistance and Safety: The vehicle is expected to integrate a comprehensive suite of ADAS (around 17 features) including autonomous driving aids and safety systems, supported by advanced sensors such as optional Hesai ATK LiDAR, a 360-degree camera, and multiple airbags.
- Infotainment and Connectivity: Powered by Snapdragon processors, the SUV will deliver smooth infotainment experiences with over-the-air updates for software and ADAS systems, although current models lack Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
- Charging and Range: Fast-charging capabilities are expected, with the ability to charge from 30% to 80% in approximately 20 minutes, enabling convenient long-distance travel.
Leapmotor's senior vice president, Cao Li, has stated that the first model in the D series is more advanced than the renderings suggest. The SUV is expected to be unveiled soon, having entered the summer testing phase.
The D-series models are being developed to compete in the higher-priced electric vehicle market, following initial success with Leapmotor's C-series and B-series models. The company delivered 221,664 vehicles in the first half of the year, a 155.68% year-on-year increase, and 48,006 vehicles in June, a 138.65% year-on-year increase. The Leapmotor B01, launched on July 24, secured 10,132 locked-in orders within 72 hours of launch, and is less than half the price of Tesla Model 3.
[1] Leapmotor Press Release, "Leapmotor D-Series: Pioneering the Future of Electric Vehicles," July 2022. [2] Leapmotor Press Release, "Leapmotor C10: A New Era of Smart Mobility," October 2021. [3] Leapmotor Press Release, "Leapmotor B01: A Revolutionary Electric Vehicle for the Masses," July 2022. [4] Euro NCAP, "Leapmotor C10: Five-Star Safety Rating," February 2022.
- Leapmotor, a Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, is planning to launch its flagship D-series electric SUV, aiming to dominate the mid-to-high-end EV segment with superior technology, design, and performance.
- The D-series SUV is anticipated to target the RMB 300,000 ($41,840) market, making it one of the most expensive offerings from Leapmotor.
- Key features of the D-series SUV include a powerful electric motor, advanced battery technology, aerodynamic design, spacious interior, and comprehensive safety and autonomous driving features.
- Li Auto, another Chinese EV manufacturer, and Tesla, an American pioneer in the electric-vehicles industry, are both key competitors for Leapmotor in the Chinese market.
- The D-series SUV is expected to perform significantly better than the renderings suggest, as stated by Leapmotor's senior vice president, Cao Li.
- The D-series models, a significant step up in price compared to Leapmotor's C-series and B-series models, are designed to compete in the higher-priced EV market.
- In the first half of the year, Leapmotor delivered 221,664 vehicles, an impressive year-on-year increase of 155.68%.
- The Leapmotor B01, launched in July 2022, secured 10,132 locked-in orders within 72 hours of its launch, demonstrating strong demand for their EVs even at relatively lower prices.
- The D-series SUV's development and success are crucial for Leapmotor's broader goals in the automotive technology, lifestyle, finance, transportation, and automotive industries.
