The Munich Motor Show 2025 was one of those moments where the car world held its breath. Not because of some overpriced supercar with more horsepower than brain cells, but thanks to a Chinese newcomer quietly knocking on Europe’s doors: the Leapmotor B05. Yes, an electric hatchback that looks ready to give the Volkswagen ID.3 and Kia EV4 a proper kick in the rear, all while sparing your wallet from a meltdown.
Let’s be honest: Chinese cars used to have the charm of a microwave meal – functional, but not something you’d brag about. Leapmotor, backed by the heavyweights at Stellantis, seems determined to change that image. The B05 is their latest weapon, a compact five-door that feels like a cross between a sleek saloon and a sporty coupé. At 4.43 meters long, it’s slightly bigger than an ID.3 but shorter than an ID.4, landing it in that fiercely competitive mid-size segment where everyone’s scrapping for supremacy. And with frameless windows – yes, frameless windows on a hatchback! – it throws in a premium wink you’d usually find on pricier models.
The design isn’t exactly earth-shattering, but it’s sharp. Think flowing lines, a light strip up front giving it a modern face, and 19-inch wheels that look ready to tackle a racetrack, even if this car will likely spend more time circling the local supermarket. Inside, Leapmotor promises a spacious cabin, though they’re keeping the dashboard under wraps like it’s a state secret. But if the rumors are true, you’re getting a 14.6-inch touchscreen that’ll make you feel like you’re driving a giant iPad. Minimalist, modern, and probably packed with more gadgets than your grandma’s new smartphone.
Under the hood – or rather, where the hood would be if electric cars still had them – the B05 shares its LEAP 3.5 platform with the B10 SUV. That means a 218 hp electric motor and a choice of two battery packs: 56.2 kWh or 67.1 kWh. With a WLTP range of up to 434 kilometers and fast charging at 168 kW (80% in half an hour), this isn’t a car that’ll leave you stranded on the side of the road with a dead battery. Sure, it’s not a Tesla Model S Plaid, but for a compact hatchback, it’s more than respectable. And let’s be real: who needs 585 hp in a family car? That’s like using a rocket launcher to swat a fly.
What makes this car truly interesting is the price. Leapmotor has built a reputation for offering “a lot of car for little money.” Their B10 SUV is already €12,000 cheaper than a comparable Volkswagen ID.4, and the C10 is barely pricier than a Peugeot e-2008 while being a size up. The B05 will likely follow the same playbook – an affordable electric car that doesn’t feel like you’re signing away your life savings. Exact prices aren’t out yet, but if Leapmotor sticks to its strategy, expect an entry-level price that’ll make the competition sweat.
Of course, there are still questions. What’s the build quality like? Will the interior feel like a luxury lounge or a budget airline? And how reliable is a brand that’s just starting out in Europe? But with Stellantis behind them – the folks behind Peugeot, Citroën, and Fiat – Leapmotor has a solid foundation to build on. They already have over 400 dealerships across 13 European countries, and their T03 and C10 models are flying out of showrooms. This isn’t a flash in the pan; this is a brand here to stay.
The B05 is more than just another new car. It’s a statement: Chinese brands can’t just compete, they can shake things up. With its sharp looks, solid specs, and a price that likely won’t break the bank, this hatchback is a serious player in a market desperate for affordable electric options. So, if you’re looking for an EV that doesn’t force you to remortgage your house, keep an eye on the B05. Who knows, you might soon see it on every street corner while the ID.3 and EV4 wonder where it all went wrong.
For those already itching to go electric, check out our marketplace at https://volty.be/nl/buy/cars/overview/. You’ll find a range of 100% electric cars you can browse and buy – no hassle, just pure EV power.
