Brand adds second EV to line-up
Leapmotor’s B10 will be the second model in the brand’s New Zealand portfolio when it hits the market in October this year.
Auto Distributors New Zealand, the Chinese marque’s local distributor, has announced plans for the launch of the battery electric vehicle (BEV) that will be available in two different specification levels, Life and Design.
The B10 SUV will join the Leapmotor C10 BEV and extended-range electric vehicle (REEV) variants already on sale here as the brand expands its domestic presence.
Leapmotor has teamed up with Armstrong’s to ensure a sales and after-sales network in the country’s main centres and launched the C10 into the market earlier this year.
Brian Carr, Auto Distributors NZ’s general manager of sales, says: “We’re confident the B10 will enjoy similar success when both models officially go on sale in October.
“Leapmotor is quickly establishing itself as an internationally recognised marque, with innovation and advanced technology at its core, delivering cutting-edge solutions and offering advanced features across the new model range.
“They are high-quality vehicles designed for everyday lifestyles, crafted with versatility and practicality in mind and offering a balance of comfort, efficiency and functionality which represent exceptional value for money.”
The B10 has an electric powertrain and rear-wheel drive, while the inside of the Life and Design models boasts a 14.6-inch “floating” central infotainment screen and an 8.8-inch driver cluster display.
A special app enhances the digital experience for drivers and passengers. It offers more than a dozen functions such as remote air conditioning control, electric window open and close, scheduled battery charging, Bluetooth key support and remote central locking.
Another technological feature is the near-field communication card, which negates the need for a traditional key fob by providing smart entry into and starting of the vehicle.
Over-the-air updates are also available to ensure the vehicle’s software and systems are improved and upgraded without the need for a workshop visit.
Both B10 variants also come with vehicle-to-load functionality, a panoramic glass roof, 360-degree surround view camera and fully reclinable front seats that create a lie-flat bed experience. When it comes to storage, there is a 25-litre frunk and a modular boot with up to 1,700l of capacity.
Additional features on the Design model include eco leather, electrically adjustable front seats that feature a heating plus ventilation function, an electric tailgate, a heated steering wheel and a 12-speaker audio system, which is up from six speakers in the Life variant.
Leapmotor says the SUV is designed with a rigid body structure and advanced crash protection to improve safety and it comes standard with a suite of 17 advanced driver assistance systems.
Two battery options are available. A 56.2kWh pack is fitted in the Life version and the Design model has a larger 67.1kWh battery that delivers a range up to 434km on the WLTP.
