Leapmotor has started pre-sales for the B05, the compact electric hatchback known in China as the Lafa 5. The model was first shown publicly at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich, where it drew attention for its clean design and balanced proportions. With pre-sales now open in its home market, the company is revealing more details about the car’s specifications and pricing.
However, it’s possible that the European version will not include some of the more advanced features, such as the full LiDAR-based driver assistance setup, as Leapmotor could simplify equipment levels to keep costs competitive once production begins in Spain.
Table of Contents
- Range and performance
- Pricing and incentives
- What this means for the European market
- What remains to be revealed
- Frequently Asked Questions
Range and performance
According to information released by Leapmotor, the B05 will be offered with two battery options, 56.2 kWh and 67.1 kWh, providing between 515 km and 605 km of range under China’s CLTC testing standard. Since CLTC results tend to be more optimistic than the WLTP cycle used in Europe, buyers can expect slightly lower figures once European testing is completed.
Power comes from a single rear-mounted electric motor delivering either 132 kW (180 hp) or 160 kW (218 hp), depending on the version. The top speed is rated between 160 km/h and 170 km/h. Charging from 30 to 80 percent reportedly takes about 18 minutes, though real-world times will vary according to charger type and local standards.
Higher-trim versions of the B05 come equipped with a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor and a dedicated computing chip capable of 200 TOPS (trillion operations per second), supporting more advanced driver-assistance functions as software evolves.
| Specification | Standard Version | Long-Range Version |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Motor Output | 132 kW (180 hp) | 160 kW (218 hp) |
| Drive Type | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| Battery Capacity | 56.2 kWh | 67.1 kWh |
| CLTC Range | 515 km | 605 km |
| Estimated WLTP Range | ~430–440 km | ~485–515 km |
| Top Speed | 160 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Charging (30–80%) | ≈ 18 minutes | ≈ 18 minutes |
| Platform | LEAP 3.5 | LEAP 3.5 |
Pricing and incentives
In China, the B05 starts from around €12,800 and goes up to roughly €16,000 for higher trims. Early customers placing a pre-sale deposit receive additional benefits worth approximately €1,500, which is a common marketing approach in the Chinese EV market.
These prices, however, should not be viewed as a reference for Europe. Transport costs, tariffs, local taxes, and incentives will significantly affect the final price once the car is sold on the European market. Even with production expected to begin at Stellantis’ Zaragoza plant in Spain, the B05 will likely arrive at a noticeably higher price point than in China.
What this means for the European market
The B05 is set to enter European production in late 2026 under the partnership between Leapmotor and Stellantis. It shares its LEAP 3.5 platform with the larger Leapmotor B10 SUV and is positioned within the compact hatchback segment.
With competitors such as the Volkswagen ID.3, MG4, and BYD Dolphin already popular among European buyers, the B05 adds yet another player to this highly competitive field. A new entrant could further drive competition, leading other brands to enhance quality or adjust pricing. If Leapmotor manages to retain its balance of value, range, and design while adapting to European regulations, the B05 could become a compelling alternative for buyers looking for a modern, efficient electric hatchback.
What remains to be revealed
There are still open questions for the European version of the B05. For example, it is not yet confirmed which battery options or motor outputs will arrive in Europe, nor whether the full LiDAR-equipped driver-assistance suite will be offered. European pricing, local WLTP range figures, and charging performance (especially on European infrastructure) will also be key determinants of how compelling the B05 will be in local markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Leapmotor B05?
The B05 is a compact electric hatchback from Leapmotor, known in China as the Lafa 5. It was introduced to European audiences during IAA Mobility 2025 and shares its LEAP 3.5 platform with the larger B10 sedan.
How far can it drive on a charge?
Depending on the chosen battery, the B05 offers between 515 km and 605 km of range under the CLTC cycle. Since CLTC and WLTP use different testing methods, the European-certified range will likely be lower.
How much will it cost?
In China, prices range from approximately €12,800 to €16,000, with pre-sale incentives available. European pricing will be higher due to logistics, tariffs, and local taxes.
When will it be available in Europe?
Production for the European market is expected to start in 2026 at Stellantis’ Zaragoza facility in Spain, with sales following later that year or early 2027.
Will the European version include LiDAR-based driver assistance?
It’s not yet confirmed. To reduce costs, Leapmotor may simplify equipment for Europe, meaning that some advanced features available in China might not be included in the initial European models.
How does it compare to other compact EVs?
The B05 will compete with models such as the Volkswagen ID.3, MG4, and BYD Dolphin. If Leapmotor can combine strong range and pricing with solid build quality, it could offer a fresh alternative in the segment.
Source: electrive
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