Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Leapmotor and European automotive giant Stellantis have announced plans to commence production of the Leapmotor C10 SUV in Malaysia by the end of 2025. The initiative will utilize Stellantis’ existing facility in Gurun, Kedah, with an initial investment of $8.9 million (AUD). This move aims to bolster Leapmotor’s presence in the Southeast Asian market and contribute to the region’s sustainable mobility efforts.
The Leapmotor C10, which debuted in China in March 2024, is available in both extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) and battery electric vehicle (BEV) versions, with prices starting at RMB 128,800 (approximately $27, 620 AUD/$17,640 USD).
The localised production in Malaysia is expected to enhance the vehicle’s accessibility and appeal to consumers in the ASEAN region and also Australia. The current Leapmotor C10 SUV sold in Australia is manufactured in China with prices starting at $45,888 AUD.
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Context & Background
In October 2023, Stellantis invested approximately €1.5 billion to acquire a 20% stake in Leapmotor, establishing a strategic partnership aimed at expanding Leapmotor’s global footprint. This collaboration led to the formation of Leapmotor International, a joint venture with Stellantis holding a 51% stake, focusing on the export, sale, and manufacturing of Leapmotor products outside Greater China. The joint venture commenced operations in May 2024, with plans to introduce Leapmotor’s EVs to various international markets, including Europe, India, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and South America.
The decision to initiate production in Malaysia aligns with Stellantis’ strategy to leverage its existing manufacturing capabilities in the ASEAN region. The Gurun plant in Kedah serves as a regional hub, enabling efficient scaling of production and distribution to neighboring markets. This move is part of a broader effort to meet the growing demand for affordable and technologically advanced EVs in Southeast Asia.
In This Story
Leapmotor
Leapmotor is a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer known for its innovative and cost-effective EVs, including models like the C10 SUV and T03 compact car.
Stellantis
Stellantis is a multinational automotive corporation formed through the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group, encompassing brands such as Peugeot, Citroën, Jeep, and Dodge.
Gurun Plant, Kedah
The Gurun plant in Kedah, Malaysia, is a manufacturing facility operated by Stellantis, serving as a regional hub for automotive production and distribution in the ASEAN market.
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