According to CarNewsChina, Leapmotor is preparing a more aggressive, performance-tuned variant of its Lafa 5 (also known as the Leapmotor B05 in Europe) compact hatchback called the Lafa 5 Ultra. Here in Europe it will be called – you guessed it right – the Leapmotor B05 Ultra. This version was recently teased by the company and is expected to hit the market in the second quarter of 2026.
According to Leapmotor, the Ultra version will be more than just a cosmetic upgrade. It’s being developed for drivers who want sportier handling, more dynamic presence, and a more premium feel than the standard B05.
Table of Contents
- Design and Aerodynamics
- Performance, Powertrain & Handling
- Interior & Quality Upgrades
- Platform and Technical Foundations
- Launch Timing and Pricing
- What the Ultra Means for Customers and the EV Market
- Frequently Asked Questions
Design and Aerodynamics
Visually, the B05 Ultra stands out compared to the regular model. Leapmotor has added a more pronounced front splitter, gloss-black aerodynamic accents, and side skirts that emphasize a lower, more planted stance.
At the rear, the Ultra gets a high-mounted wing (spoiler) and a bold diffuser integrated into the lower bumper. It will ride on 19-inch wheels, according to preview images, which further accentuate its performance character.
Performance, Powertrain & Handling
While official powertrain details are not fully confirmed, there is substantial speculation about what “Ultra” really means for performance. Several industry sources suggest the Leapmotor B05 Ultra could adopt a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, though Leapmotor itself has not publicly confirmed that.
Leapmotor’s own leadership has hinted that the Ultra is not just about power, the car has been tested on mountain roads, and according to a senior executive, the handling “on winding roads is excellent.” There are also signs that the chassis tuning has been done in collaboration with engineers from Stellantis in Europe, which could mean a more balanced 50:50 weight distribution and enhanced driving dynamics.
Interior & Quality Upgrades
Inside, Leapmotor promises a higher-quality finish relative to the standard B05. According to executives, the Ultra version will feature upgraded materials (possibly suede-like surfaces) and a more refined cabin design that prioritizes both performance feel and comfort.
Given its positioning, the Ultra is likely to offer improved driver engagement and a more premium feel while still using much of the same architecture as the base B05.
Platform and Technical Foundations
The B05 Ultra is built on Leapmotor’s LEAP 3.5 architecture, the same modular EV platform underlying the regular B05 hatchback. Because of this shared underpinnings, the Ultra version can benefit from established battery options and some of the efficiencies that come with a mature platform.
Speaking of batteries, the standard B05 is available with 56.2 kWh and 67.1 kWh LFP packs, offering a CLTC range of up to 605 km for the larger battery. It’s possible that the Ultra will use the same 67.1 kWh pack (or a variant of it) to balance performance and range, though Leapmotor has not confirmed that yet.
Launch Timing and Pricing
Leapmotor is targeting a Q2 2026 market debut for the Ultra in China. Executives already suggest that the Ultra will be priced higher than the standard B05, reflecting its more advanced dynamics, refined materials, and possibly a more powerful powertrain.
There’s growing speculation that Leapmotor could expand the Ultra’s reach internationally after its Chinese launch, potentially replicating the path of the B05 when it expands into European markets.
What the Ultra Means for Customers and the EV Market
For customers, the Leapmotor B05 Ultra represents a more expressive, performance-oriented version of a very practical EV. Rather than settling for a basic city hatchback, the Ultra seems aimed at those who want a compact EV that still delivers driving excitement. If Leapmotor delivers on its promises (sharper handling, a sporty look, and better materials) the Ultra could be a compelling choice for buyers who care about both efficiency and driving dynamics.
From a broader market perspective, the Ultra underscores Leapmotor’s ambition to push beyond volume EVs into more “enthusiast-friendly” territory. It may also raise the bar for other compact EV manufacturers by offering a performance variant in a segment typically dominated by efficiency-focused models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Leapmotor Lafa 5 Ultra?
The Lafa 5 Ultra is the performance-focused version of Leapmotor’s Lafa 5 (in Europe known as the B05) hatchback. It features aerodynamic upgrades, a sportier chassis setup, and possibly a dual-motor powertrain.
When will the Ultra come out?
The current plan calls for a launch in the second quarter of 2026.
How will it be different from the standard Lafa 5?
In addition to visual upgrades, the Ultra is expected to offer improved handling (possibly tuned by Stellantis engineers), higher-quality materials inside, and more performance capability than the base model.
Will the battery or range change?
Leapmotor hasn’t confirmed a different battery yet, but speculation suggests it might use a 67.1 kWh LFP pack similar to the top version of the regular B05.
Is it coming to Europe?
While Leapmotor hasn’t officially announced a European launch for the Ultra version, it’s likely to follow the standard B05 given the company’s international expansion plans.
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