Leapmotor, the forward-thinking Chinese EV maker with strong ties to Stellantis, just punched its ticket to South America, officially launching operations in Brazil and Chile this month. This isn’t just a soft launch either, Leapmotor rolled out its latest models at the São Paulo Auto Show, signaling its serious intent to capture a slice of the burgeoning South American electric vehicle market.
A Full Range of Electric Options for South America
Leapmotor is bringing its full arsenal of electric vehicles, including both Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs), to South America. Brazil is the initial focus, and this expansion is set to heavily leverage Stellantis’s already established dealership network and comprehensive after-sales service system. The goal is clear: provide South American drivers with cutting-edge technology and seamlessly integrated, localized electric mobility solutions. It’s a smart move, tapping into existing infrastructure to hit the ground running.
Current Lineup and Future Expansion Plans
Right now, drivers in Brazil and Chile can get their hands on the pure electric and extended-range versions of the sleek SUV C10, alongside the equally impressive mid-size pure electric SUV B10. The company also put on a show at the São Paulo Auto Show, unveiling the spacious six-seater electric SUV C16, hinting at a wider range to come. By 2025, Leapmotor isn’t holding back, planning to open 36 sales and service centers across 27 cities in Brazil and an additional five outlets in Chile. This rapid rollout, bolstered by Stellantis’s channel resources, is designed to ensure customers receive a top-tier experience, from purchase to after-sales support.
Connected Tech and Charging Solutions
Beyond just the vehicles, Leapmotor is introducing its LEAP+ connected platform, a suite of features that brings modern convenience to EV ownership. Think digital keys, remote vehicle control, and integrated charging navigation, making daily driving a breeze. To further support its users, Leapmotor has teamed up with local charging providers like Zletric and GreenV, offering comprehensive charging solutions and convenient home charger installation services. It’s about making the entire EV experience as seamless as possible, a crucial factor for adoption in new markets.
Global Ambitions and the Road Ahead
Leapmotor’s journey beyond China has been nothing short of impressive, following its successful entry into the European market last year. Through its joint venture with Stellantis, Leapmotor International has already planted its flag in over 30 overseas markets across Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and Africa by June of this year. This global footprint is continuously expanding as China’s EV manufacturers eye international growth. The brand recently set an ambitious target of selling 1 million units by 2026, with 900,000 destined for the domestic market and a bold 100,000 for overseas sales. While Leapmotor already stands as a top exporter among new Chinese EV brands, with over 44,000 units shipped from January to October this year, and a strong presence in key European markets like Germany, France, Italy, and Spain, doubling its overseas sales target presents a significant, exhilarating challenge. It’ll be fascinating to watch if they can hit that ambitious goal and truly solidify their position as a global EV player.
