Leapmotor in Europe, production of electric cars and batteries in Spain, prices and models available in Romania
The European automotive industry is witnessing a profound reconfiguration of the production map, as Asian giants choose to move a significant part of their manufacturing directly to the old continent. In a pioneering strategic move, Chinese manufacturer Leapmotor has launched local production, marking an absolute first by integrating both vehicle assembly and the production of essential battery components in the EU.
Production launch in Zaragoza and new battery factory in Mallen
The new stage in the evolution of the Asian company is taking shape on European soil, supported by the close partnership with the industrial group that holds a 20% stake in the Chinese brand.
- Debut in Zaragoza: On October 16, the assembly line of a modernized plant in Zaragoza rolled out the first units of the B10 compact electric crossover, officially inaugurating the brand's local industrial activity.
- Local battery manufacturing: At the same time, the company inaugurated a dedicated battery manufacturing facility in the neighboring town of Mallen. Here, modules based on lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) technology are manufactured, destined directly for vehicles assembled at the Zaragoza plant.
- Industrial synergies: The host Spanish unit is no stranger to international success, with established models such as the Opel Corsa, Peugeot 208 and Lancia Ypsilon already being produced in the same factory. In addition, the local manufacturing portfolio is set to expand in the first half of next year with the introduction of the B05 electric hatchback.
Economic strategy: Bypassing tariff barriers and complying with European norms
The decision to move production to Europe represents a direct response to the protectionist measures adopted by the community authorities and offers major competitive advantages for the Chinese manufacturer.
- Avoiding punitive customs duties: Through domestic production, the company manages to avoid additional customs duties of up to 35.3% introduced by the European Union for electric vehicles manufactured in China, taxes that were added to the basic tariff of 10%.
- Preparing for the new quota regime: The strategic move also protects the brand from the strict quota system that Brussels intends to apply starting in 2027 for imports of hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
- Local content and legislative compliance: Manufacturing battery modules directly on Spanish territory ensures compliance with the rigorous local content rules imposed by the European Union, preventing the risk of import blockages and guaranteeing stable access to European markets.
Leapmotor brand presence on the Romanian market: Range, prices and positioning
The brand's expansion strategy is also reflected in the Romanian automotive market, where the range of electric and electrified models has begun to make its presence felt through local distribution networks.
- Leapmotor T03: The most affordable entry point into the brand's electric universe is the T03 city model, a compact zero-emission vehicle whose starting price on the Romanian market is around 19,900 euros. It focuses on a predominantly urban use and generous equipment compared to its segment.
- Leapmotor C10: For customers looking for generous space and a family SUV format, the brand proposes the C10 model, whose list price starts at approximately 39,800 euros, offering a complete package of technology and comfort.
- New additions (B10 and B05): The range is completed by the new compact SUV B10 (available also in extended range versions, with prices starting from around 25,990 euros by accessing ecological incentive programs) and the hatchback B05. With these models, Leapmotor consolidates its position on the Romanian market, offering competitive alternatives in volume segments.
