Stellantis’ Leapmotor to start Europe production of B10 electric SUV, a rival to VW ID4, Skoda Elroq

Core Insights - Leapmotor, in partnership with Stellantis, will commence large-scale production of the B10 compact electric SUV in Europe next year, aiming to circumvent EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles [1][5] - The B10 will be priced just under €30,000 and is expected to compete with leading models in the compact full-electric SUV segment, which currently includes the VW ID4, Skoda Elroq, and Kia EV3 [2][5] - The B10 is the first model developed with input from Stellantis, following their investment in Leapmotor, and is set to be produced in a Stellantis factory in Spain [3][6] Group 1: Production and Market Strategy - Leapmotor plans to start sales of the B10 in Europe this month with initial imports from China, while large-scale production will begin next year [1][2] - The B10 is designed to capture market share from existing leaders in the compact full-electric SUV segment, which collectively hold 57% of the market [2] - The company is evaluating which of Stellantis' three Spanish plants will be used for production, with Zaragoza being the most likely location [4] Group 2: Financial and Strategic Partnerships - Stellantis acquired a 20% stake in Leapmotor in 2023, investing approximately €1.5 billion, and holds a 51% share in Leapmotor International, a joint venture for global operations [5] - The B10 is the first product developed post-investment, showcasing a collaborative effort between Leapmotor and Stellantis [5][6] - An extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) variant of the B10 is planned for release in about six months, though production details for this variant remain undecided [7]