In a market increasingly saturated with electric SUVs and crossovers, the Leapmotor B05 dares to be different. Unveiled at the 2025 Munich Motor Show, this sleek five-door electric hatchback from Chinese tech brand Leapmotor is poised to challenge established players like the Volkswagen ID.3, MG4, and Renault Megane E-Tech — but with a twist: it offers premium features and sporty styling at a price that undercuts the competition.
With its European launch slated for 2026 and distribution handled by Stellantis, the B05 is more than just another EV — it’s a strategic move to redefine value in the mid-size electric segment.
⚡ Powertrain and Range: Everyday Performance with a Punch
Under the hood (or rather, beneath the floor), the Leapmotor B05 packs a 67 kWh battery paired with a single electric motor delivering just over 200 bhp. That’s enough to make the B05 feel brisk and responsive, especially in urban and suburban settings. The estimated range is around 260 miles (approximately 420 km) on a full charge — more than sufficient for daily driving and weekend getaways.
Leapmotor has hinted at future variants with larger batteries offering up to 400 miles of range, though it remains to be seen whether these will be available in European markets. Charging is another strong suit: the B05 supports DC fast charging up to 168 kW, allowing a 10–80% top-up in under 30 minutes1. That’s faster than many rivals in its price bracket.
🎨 Design: Sporty, Sleek, and Surprisingly Premium
The B05’s design is a refreshing departure from the SUV-heavy EV landscape. It’s a low-slung, sporty hatchback with frameless doors, flush handles, and a full-width LED light bar at the rear. The roofline is sleek, giving it a coupe-like silhouette, while the 19-inch “swift-wing” alloy wheels and blacked-out glass add a touch of aggression2.
At 4,430 mm long and 1,880 mm wide, the B05 sits at the larger end of the mid-size hatchback spectrum, promising generous interior space. It’s a car that looks premium without shouting about it — a balance that many EVs struggle to strike.
🛋️ Interior: Tech-Forward and Feature-Rich
Step inside the B05, and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels more luxury lounge than budget EV. The centerpiece is a massive 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by a smaller digital driver display. The layout is clean and minimalist, with a focus on intuitive controls and high-end materials.
Standard equipment is generous — and that’s putting it mildly. The B05 Design trim (expected to be the sole variant in Europe) includes:
- Panoramic glass roof
- Leatherette upholstery
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Electric seat adjustment
- Ambient lighting
- 360-degree parking camera
These features are typically reserved for cars costing significantly more, making the B05 a standout in terms of value.
🧠 Tech and Connectivity: Smart Without Overload
Leapmotor has designed the B05 to appeal to gadget lovers, but without overwhelming them. The infotainment system supports smartphone integration, navigation, and vehicle settings, all accessible through a responsive interface. The digital cockpit is customizable, and the car’s software is expected to support over-the-air updates — a must-have in today’s connected car landscape.
While full ADAS details are yet to be confirmed, Leapmotor’s other models offer features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking — so it’s safe to expect similar tech in the B05.
🌍 Leapmotor’s Global Strategy: A New Challenger Rises
Leapmotor may be a new name in Europe, but it’s a major player in China, having sold hundreds of thousands of EVs. Its partnership with Stellantis — the parent company of Jeep, Peugeot, Citroën, Fiat, and Vauxhall — ensures that the B05 will be sold and serviced through a trusted dealer network.
This strategic alliance gives Leapmotor instant credibility and infrastructure in Europe, allowing it to compete head-to-head with legacy brands. The B05 joins a growing lineup that includes the compact T03 city car, the C10 SUV, and the B10 crossover — all aimed at offering high-tech, affordable mobility.
📝 Final Thoughts: A Game-Changer in the Making
The Leapmotor B05 isn’t just another electric hatchback — it’s a wake-up call to the industry. With its bold styling, solid performance, and luxury-level features at a sub-£30,000 price point, it’s poised to disrupt the status quo. For buyers who want more than just a badge — who value design, tech, and practicality — the B05 offers a compelling alternative.