BRIEF: Leapmotor starts taking orders for first two EVs in Europe

Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology Co. Ltd. (9863.HK) has begun taking orders for its first two electric vehicles (EVs) in Europe, as it moves into the region after its landmark tie-up with Stellantis last year, Reuters reported on Tuesday. The two new models are the T03 compact car, which will be available from the end of this month for prices starting at 18,900 euros ($20,990); and the C10 SUV, available next month for prices starting at 36,400 euros.

The move represents a deepening of Leapmotor’s relationship with Stellantis, which last year purchased 21% of the Chinese company for $1.6 billion. As part of their relationship, Leapmotor and Stellantis set up a joint venture with exclusive rights to sell Leapmotor’s cars outside China, with Stellantis holding a 51% stake. That venture began operating in May.

The joint venture, Leapmotor International, announced in late July that it had begun sending the C10 and T03 models to Europe.

By Doug Young

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