Leapmotor aims to penetrate the higher-end market segment with the introduction of their new D-series product line.
In a significant move, Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Leapmotor is set to launch its first flagship full-size SUV as part of the all-new D series. The upcoming model, poised to be the largest full-size SUV in the Chinese market this year, boasts advanced technology, spacious interiors, and competitive pricing.
Leapmotor's Senior Vice President, Cao Li, has stated that the first D-series model is more advanced than the renderings previously released, hinting at exciting surprises in store for consumers. The SUV is currently undergoing summer testing and is slated for launch in early 2026.
The D series SUV features a bold, modern design with split headlight clusters and a large enclosed front grille adorned with signature tri-bar LED daytime running lights. It will offer both 6-seat and 7-seat configurations, ensuring maximum passenger comfort, including a spacious third row.
Technologically, the D series SUV is expected to lead the way with advanced hardware, including LiDAR sensors and high-level intelligent driving systems. This move towards premium, intelligent vehicles is a testament to Leapmotor's commitment to innovation and quality. The SUV will also continue the brand’s modular platform approach, offering both range-extender (EREV) and pure battery electric (BEV) powertrain options. Large-capacity batteries are expected to be part of the package, supporting competitive driving ranges and performance.
Pricing for the D series SUV targets the premium segment, with the base model priced around RMB 300,000 (~$41,000). However, lower-priced range-extended trims could be available near RMB 200,000 (~$27,000), providing a competitive "high-spec-for-less" positioning. The pure-electric variants will compete with rivals priced around RMB 250,000 (~$34,000).
Leapmotor's COO, Jun, confirmed that the model will be the company's first flagship full-size SUV in the D series. The company's previous model, the B01 from the B series, was launched on July 24 and secured 10,132 locked-in orders within 72 hours of its launch. The B01 model, priced at RMB 89,800, is less than half the price of the Tesla Model 3, making it an attractive option in the electric vehicle market.
With the launch of the D series, Leapmotor is making a bold move into the higher-priced electric vehicle market. The company delivered 48,006 vehicles in June, a year-on-year increase of 138.65%. In the first half of the year, Leapmotor delivered 221,664 vehicles, a year-on-year increase of 155.68%. As the D series model enters the summer testing phase, anticipation for this premium full-size SUV continues to grow.
- Leapmotor's Senior Vice President, Cao Li, reveals that the first D-series SUV is more advanced than the renderings suggested, promising surprises for consumers.
- The D series SUV, Leapmotor's first flagship full-size electric vehicle (EV), will be the largest in the Chinese market this year, offering advanced technology, spacious interiors, and competitive pricing.
- Besides Leapmotor, NIO and Tesla are two other significant players in the global EV market, demonstrating the thriving automotive technology industry.
- The D series SUV will feature LiDAR sensors and high-level intelligent driving systems, setting a new benchmark in the EV industry.
- As Leapmotor forges into the higher-priced EV market, China's finance industry is expected to play a crucial role in providing funding for the expanding automotive industry, particularly in the EV sector.
- With the D series model undergoing summer testing, its launch in early 2026 is the next critical milestone in Leapmotor's growth strategy within the transportation sector.
- As Leapmotor delivers significant year-on-year increases in vehicle sales, there is growing expectation that the development of its premium full-size SUV, the D series, will further drive growth in China's EV market and solidify Leapmotor's position in the global EV industry.