Leapmotor just rolled out its compact electric hatchback, the B05, in China, shaking up the market with impressive range and tech at a budget-friendly price. Known domestically as the Lafa5, this little EV is poised for a global export push, promising a fresh take on electric urban mobility.
Price and Trims: Value That Packs a Punch
Leapmotor is launching the B05 with five distinct trim levels, catering to various budgets and needs. The 515 Plus, the entry-level model, starts at a compelling 97,800 yuan, roughly $13,800. For those seeking more, the top-tier 605 Max comes in at 121,800 yuan, or about $17,200. Savvy early birds can snag a 5,000 yuan discount across all trims, making these deals even sweeter. This aggressive pricing positions the B05 as one of the most competitive compact EVs in China, especially considering its feature set.
Performance and Range: Go Further on Less
Underpinning the B05 is the LEAP 3.5 platform, a testament to Leapmotor’s commitment to advanced EV architecture. The B05 offers two rear-mounted electric motor options: a 132 kW motor or a more potent 160 kW unit. These pair with either a 56.2 kWh or 67.1 kWh battery pack, delivering CLTC-rated ranges of 515 km or a remarkable 605 km respectively. To put that in perspective, a 605 km range is typically found in much pricier EVs, highlighting the B05’s value proposition. It’s a compelling package for daily commutes and longer trips alike, making range anxiety a thing of the past.
| Metric | Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max motor output (1) | 132 | kW | Entry-level trim |
| Max motor output (2) | 160 | kW | Mid to top-tier trims |
| Range (CLTC) (1) | 515 | km | With 56.2 kWh battery |
| Range (CLTC) (2) | 605 | km | With 67.1 kWh battery |
| Battery capacity (1) | 56.2 | kWh | Lower range option |
| Battery capacity (2) | 67.1 | kWh | Higher range option |
| Length | 4,430 | mm | |
| Width | 1,880 | mm | |
| Height | 1,520 | mm | |
| Wheelbase | 2,735 | mm | |
| Starting price (local market) | 97,800 | yuan | Approximately 13,800 USD |
Interior and Tech: Smart, Comfortable, and Connected
Inside, the B05 is far from basic. It sports an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a sharp 14.6-inch 2.5K central touchscreen, powered by Leapmotor OS 4.0 Plus on a Snapdragon processor. This means a fluid, responsive user experience on par with much pricier vehicles. Higher trims offer a suite of premium features like ventilated and heated seats, a panoramic roof, and 256-color ambient lighting. You even get wireless charging within the clever “magic expansion island” center console, and upholstery options from durable fabric to luxurious Nappa leather or faux-suede. For advanced driver assistance, the top trim boasts a roof-mounted LiDAR unit and a 200 TOPS computing platform, supported by 27 perception sensors. This kind of advanced hardware at this price point is a game-changer, pushing the boundaries of what consumers expect from a compact EV.
Design: Youthful Appeal with a Global Vision
On the outside, the B05 gets a youthful, dynamic look. Eye-catching elements include frameless doors, sleek hidden door handles, and a sealed front design that screams modern EV. The fastback roofline adds a sporty touch, and color options like Electric Yellow, Starsky Blue, and Morgan Pink ensure it stands out from the crowd. For enthusiasts craving more aggression, a sport-oriented Lafa 5 Ultra is set to arrive in Q2 2026, featuring a more assertive exterior and black 19-inch wheels.
Leapmotor states that “Lafa” embodies Lifestyle, Attitude, Freedom, and Art, setting this model apart within their lineup. This push for a distinct brand identity is likely tied to its global ambitions, with a new series planned for international release starting in 2026. Given the company’s recent partnership with Stellantis, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the B05 rebadged under a partner brand, perhaps even Opel, as rumored. This strategic alliance could significantly accelerate Leapmotor’s presence in international markets, demonstrating how Chinese EV makers are rapidly expanding their global reach.
The Bigger Picture: China’s EV Dominance
The launch of the Leapmotor B05 underscores a broader trend: Chinese automakers are not just competing on price, they’re delivering advanced technology and appealing designs that challenge established global players. With offerings like the B05, a feature-rich, high-range EV under $15,000, they’re redefining value in the electric vehicle landscape. This push is fueled by innovative platforms, aggressive pricing, and a keen understanding of what modern drivers want, both in China and increasingly, worldwide. The global export push suggested for the B05 is further evidence of China’s growing influence in the EV market, as brands like Leapmotor join others like MG and BYD in their international expansion plans. It’s an exciting time to be an EV enthusiast, with compelling options emerging from every corner of the globe.
