Leapmotor adds C16 SUV versions with larger batteries

Leapmotor is expanding its C16 SUV lineup with two new all-electric variants with an improved range. The company touts the new models as a response to the growing demand for EVs capable of traveling further on a single charge, a key concern for many prospective buyers.

The two new variants, priced at RMB 172,800 ($23,600) and RMB 189,800 ($26,000) respectively, offer a CLTC (China light-duty vehicle test cycle) range of 360 miles. This is a notable increase from the 323 miles offered by the previously available all-electric C16 models. The range boost comes courtesy of a larger 74.9 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery pack, compared to the 67.7 kWh unit in the earlier versions. The higher-priced variant of the new long-range C16 also features a 128-channel LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) system, used for advanced driver-assistance systems and autonomous driving capabilities.

Leapmotor C16 is a six-seater SUV. It was first launched in June 2024, and it has been available in both extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) and battery electric vehicle (BEV) configurations. The EREV models come with a small gasoline engine to recharge the battery on the go. They offer a more flexible solution for those concerned about range anxiety. The single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup delivers a respectable 0-62 mph acceleration time of 6.4 seconds.

In terms of dimensions, the C16 measures 193.5 inches in length, 75 inches in width, and 69.7 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 111.2 inches. It is nearly 15 cm longer than the Tesla Model Y, and it is even a little bit larger than the XPeng G9.

Leapmotor is offering a range of incentives for customers who order and take delivery of the long-range BEV variants before January 31st. These include a RMB 5,000 discount, a RMB 5,000 interest reduction on financing, an RMB 5,000 trade-in subsidy, and an RMB 7,000 option subsidy. In total, prospective buyers can rack up RMB 22,000 in savings ($3,000) if they move quickly.

Leapmotor's sales performance in recent months has been impressive. The company delivered 42,517 vehicles in December 2024, representing a year-on-year increase of 128.37 percent. For the full year 2024, Leapmotor delivered a total of 293,724 vehicles. The C16 itself has also proven to be a popular choice among buyers, with cumulative deliveries reaching 34,679 units by the end of November 2024.

Via