Exclusive Test: Leapmotor T03

In October 2022, we had the opportunity to try the new terror of the electric market, the Leapmotor T03. Our opinion?

Leapmotor? Unknown in France, the Chinese manufacturer is preparing to take off. Launched in its domestic market in 2015, this firm has successfully specialized in electric vehicles. From January to July 2022, the start-up produced over 64,000 cars and is set to raise 800 million euros on the stock market to develop its range and also to launch its “cell-to-chassis” technology, which integrates batteries into the chassis to reduce bulk and weight. For now, only the C01 sedan (reserved for China) has this feature, but more models will follow.

The “cell-to-chassis” is not a feature on this urban T03, but it has other advantages to offer. First of all, its very aggressive price. Like the Dacia Spring, also produced in China, it manages the feat of coming in under the threshold of 20,000 euros, after a 6,000 € bonus deduction. Its price for France is thus set at 25,990 € with a unique, well-equipped finish.

A Nice Liveliness

And yet, the T03 is anything but a cheap car. Its technical specifications are flattering, as Leapmotor equips its model with a standard battery of 41.27 kWh (gross value) and an 80 kW (109 hp) motor to transport its 1,200 kg. On paper, it is better than what Dacia offers with its Spring (44 hp and 27.4 kWh) and Renault with its Twingo E-Tech (81 hp and 22 kWh). The first spins confirm the figures. Thanks to an automatic gearbox on the steering wheel, like on the Renault Megane E-Tech, the T03 starts with impressive vigor, surprising other road users not used to seeing such a small car so lively. Acceleration and responsiveness are energetic up to about 120 km/h, at which point the electronics regulate the power for obvious battery preservation reasons, but also due to tires more developed for eco-driving than for sporty driving.

A Sufficient Range

On a varied route, alternating between urban areas, departmental and national roads, we measured 14.3 kWh/100 km of consumption, which equates to about 280 km of range. A good figure achieved without holding back. Another more urban route allowed us to measure 11.5 kWh/100, or about 370 km if one sticks to the city. Once again, a good score, which would allow the T03 to outpace its main rivals in terms of range. Note that the Chinese model offers three driving modes (Eco, Standard, Sport), with no real influence on consumption.

What about charging? Leapmotor provides the home charging cable as standard, but you will need to opt for the 6.6 kW AC charger, which theoretically allows for 50% of a full charge in 3 hours and 30 minutes. When questioned on this topic, Leapmotor clarified that its T03 is also compatible with rapid DC charging and could recover from 30 to 80% in 36 minutes, thanks to a charge of 45 kW. For comparison, the Renault Twingo E-Tech can accept up to 22 kW (optional) and the Dacia Spring can go up to 30 kW (optional).

On the handling side, the T03 is anything but a punishment. Relatively light, it offers serene road behavior, well-calibrated suspension, and powerful braking. Although steering can be adjusted in three modes, there is a lack of feedback in the steering when the pace increases, and lateral grip occasionally lacks on the tires. Finally, for a city car, the turning radius is a bit high.

City Car, But Not Minimalist

Measuring 3.62 meters long and 1.65 meters wide, the T03 has a rather unremarkable design. Except for its globular headlights reminiscent of a Fiat 500X, style is not its main selling point. However, it has the significant advantage of having five doors and very good space. In the back, two adults will find it comfortable, especially in terms of headroom and legroom. If the seats are a bit firm and lack support, the trunk volume is generous for the category (210 liters). The back seat folds down easily, but unfortunately, it does so as a single piece.

Like the latest Chinese productions marketed in France, Leapmotor has paid special attention to the finish of its products. The T03 is more polished than the Dacia Spring, and its presentation is undeniably more modern. It features semi-digital instrumentation of 8 inches and a multimedia screen of 10.1 inches. Note that the steering wheel rim obscures part of the screen and all commands are made through it, except for the radio, which can be controlled from the steering wheel. Relatively easy to navigate, with fairly intuitive and fast menus, this screen is nonetheless very prone to fingerprints and glare.

Finally, know that the T03 is only available in one fully equipped finish: alarm, rear camera, GPS, parking sensors, panoramic sliding roof… everything is standard, except for metallic paint.

Questioned about its network, Leapmotor will be distributed through about fifty dealers of the EVE France brand (Group SN Diffusion) by the end of 2022, who will ensure aftersales service. EVE France even aims for a hundred points of sale by the end of 2023. A word also about the warranty. Quite modest for a Chinese brand, it is set at 3 years with a limit of 100,000 km. An extension to 5 years or 150,000 km will be offered as an option.

Review of the Leapmotor T03

The test of the Leapmotor T03 is interesting for more than one reason. It confirms how much Chinese manufacturers have the means to back their ambitions. If the promises of an extensive network are fulfilled, the T03 has a good chance of being a disruptive presence among electric city cars.

Also read: Exclusive Test Mobiwisy: Leapmotor C11