Leapmotor Launches C10 with 970 km Range and Promotion

This page is translated from the original post "Leapmotor lance le C10 à 970 km d’autonomie avec une promo" in French.

Comment
Leapmotor C10

Leapmotor takes a risky gamble on extended-range technology to attract Europe with the C10 REEV.

Leapmotor invites electric and hybrid vehicle consumers to explore its extended-range technology with the C10 REEV, a model boasting an impressive range of 970 kilometers. Offered at a list price of €37,400 in Europe, it benefits from a launch price of €35,590 in France. First deliveries will begin this month. This vehicle attempts to combine electric efficiency with the practicality of thermal engines. However, this technology raises questions about its relevance.

A unique but complex hybrid approach

The REEV system relies on an onboard generator designed to recharge the battery while driving. Unlike plug-in hybrids, which clearly distinguish between electric and thermal modes, the REEV does not separate these uses, making its operation less intuitive. This duality raises doubts about energy efficiency and environmental impact. The constant addition of a thermal engine to generate electricity sometimes seems redundant, even counterproductive.

Despite these criticisms, Leapmotor claims significant advancements. The generator achieves an efficiency of 96.5% while reducing its weight by 8 kg, and optimizations have been made to NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) performance. Carbon-coated piston segments and improved bearings ensure a smooth and quiet ride. These innovations raise questions: why aren’t such levels of efficiency and comfort already standard in 100% thermal models?

Leapmotor, currently expanding, believes in this technology which is already popular in China. However, in a context where plug-in hybrids effectively meet similar needs, this choice could complicate the approach for the general public. Before judging, concrete feedback on the system’s actual efficiency is necessary. If the promises of the C10 REEV are not confirmed, Leapmotor will need to convince skeptics to adopt this innovative but controversial hybrid solution.

READ ALSO: The brothers Alexis and Felix Lebrun drive for Leapmotor

We also suggestthese articles:

Electric Car

Presented on November 6, the new Twingo introduces its fast-track feature

Recent articles