# Leapmotor T03: The Affordable Electric Car Making Waves in the UK
*Leapmotor T03 boasts 94bhp and an impressive range of 165 miles.*
## Introduction to Leapmotor
The Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Leapmotor has officially launched in the UK, introducing its C10 family SUV and the T03 city car. Both models are being marketed as the most cost-effective options in their respective categories, targeting budget-conscious consumers seeking electric mobility.
## Leapmotor T03: A Game-Changer in the City Car Segment
With a starting price of just £15,995, the Leapmotor T03 is now recognized as the UK’s second-cheapest electric vehicle, trailing only the Dacia Spring by a mere £1,000. Both models are compact four-seaters, comparable in size to the Kia Picanto, but the T03 offers a higher driving position thanks to its underbody battery design.
### Superior Features and Performance
The T03 stands out with its superior standard equipment. Unlike the entry-level Dacia Spring, which lacks an infotainment display, the T03 is equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen that controls most secondary functions, including climate settings and media playback.
In terms of battery capacity, the T03 features a robust 37.3kWh battery, significantly larger than the Spring’s 26.8kWh. This allows the T03 to achieve a WLTP-rated range of 165 miles, surpassing the Spring by an additional 26 miles per charge.
Performance-wise, the T03 also outshines its competitor. Its 94bhp electric motor accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 12.7 seconds, while the Dacia Spring, with its 44bhp motor, takes a sluggish 19.7 seconds. Even the 64bhp variant of the Spring, priced similarly to the T03, manages a 0-62 mph time of 13.7 seconds.
### Charging and Technology
The T03 supports fast charging at a rate of 48kW, allowing it to charge from 30% to 80% in just 36 minutes. It can also be charged at 6.6kW on AC power sources.
Additionally, the T03 is equipped with a suite of driver assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and blind-spot detection. The vehicle’s software can be updated over the air, enabling Leapmotor to enhance existing features and functionalities over time.
## Leapmotor C10: Competing in the Family SUV Market
Alongside the T03, Leapmotor has introduced the C10, which aims to compete with established models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Tesla Model Y. Priced at £36,500, the C10 features a 69.9kWh battery and a powerful 215bhp motor, offering a range of 261 miles and a 0-62 mph time of 7.5 seconds. It can also be charged at a rapid rate of up to 84kW, allowing for a 30-80% recharge in just 30 minutes.
Inside, the C10 is equipped with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a large 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, which controls most of the vehicle’s primary functions, similar to the T03.
## Availability and Future Plans
Both the T03 and C10 will be sold through Leapmotor International, a joint venture between Leapmotor and Stellantis, with a 49:51 ownership split. Although production of the T03 has commenced at the former Fiat 500 plant in Tychy, Poland, all units destined for the UK will be imported from China.
Order books for the T03 will open next month, with the first deliveries expected to begin in December. Additionally, Leapmotor is set to unveil a third model, the B10 SUV, at the upcoming Paris Motor Show.
## Conclusion
With its competitive pricing, impressive features, and strong performance, the Leapmotor T03 is poised to make a significant impact in the UK electric vehicle market. As consumers increasingly seek affordable and efficient electric options, Leapmotor’s entry could reshape the landscape of urban mobility.