Stellantis is set to debut Leapmotor’s electric vehicles (EVs) in South Africa, marking an important step in the company’s strategy to expand in Africa’s growing EV market. The launch will kick off with the C10 model, a hybrid SUV, in September 2025. This vehicle features a petrol engine that charges its electric battery, offering a range of 420 km. Fully electric models are planned to follow in 2026, further solidifying Stellantis’ commitment to the region’s electric vehicle future.
This move aligns with Stellantis’ broader objective to establish a dominant presence in the Middle East and Africa. The company aims to sell one million vehicles annually by 2030, with 35% of those sales expected to be electric. To support this ambitious target, Stellantis is constructing a new manufacturing facility in South Africa, which will have an annual production capacity of 100,000 vehicles by 2030.
Leapmotor, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, has been gaining attention for its affordable EV models and advanced smart-driving features. In 2023, Stellantis acquired a 21% stake in Leapmotor for $1.6 billion, forming a joint venture, Leapmotor International, in which Stellantis holds a 51% stake. This partnership gives Stellantis access to Leapmotor’s cutting-edge technology, which will help the company broaden its EV offerings in emerging markets like South Africa.
As the EV market continues to gain traction in Africa, the arrival of Leapmotor highlights the intensifying competition among automakers. With government incentives and rising consumer interest in sustainable transportation, Africa presents a significant growth opportunity for the electric vehicle industry.
