Stellantis is set to launch the Leapmotor brand in South Africa this September, with the C10 electric SUV leading the charge. The C10 features a petrol engine that acts purely as a battery charger, extending its range. More Leapmotor models, including fully electric options, are expected to follow next year, according to Mike Whitfield, MD of Stellantis South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa.
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Earlier this year, TechCentral test-drove the C10 in Spain, offering an exclusive preview of the vehicle. Leapmotor has garnered attention globally for its affordable, technologically advanced electric vehicles, such as the all-electric B10 SUV, which features smart-driving capabilities and lidar sensing technology, priced at under US$18,000.
In 2023, Stellantis acquired a 21% stake in Leapmotor for $1.6 billion, and the two companies subsequently formed the joint venture Leapmotor International, with Stellantis holding a 51% stake. This partnership is crucial for Stellantis, the world’s fourth-largest car maker, as it seeks to expand its range of affordable electric vehicles (EVs). This strategic move comes as other Chinese automakers, including BYD and Chery Auto, are aggressively growing their presence across Africa.
“South Africa is a critical market for Stellantis, and we are fully committed to unlocking its potential through product, innovation and meaningful partnerships,” Whitfield stated.
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Stellantis, which entered the South African market four years ago, is also investing in local manufacturing. The company is building a new plant in the country with a maximum capacity of 100,000 vehicles by 2030. Its ambitious goal is to become the number-one player in the Middle East and Africa region, aiming to sell one million vehicles by 2030, with 35% of these expected to be electric. In 2024, Stellantis sold 500,000 cars in the region.
Recognizing that over 60% of the South African car market is concentrated below the R400,000 price point, Stellantis is focusing on accessible segments. Its Citroën C3 range is already gaining strong traction. The upcoming C3 Basalt is set to complete a competitive lineup in the accessible B-hatch and SUV segments early next year. Stellantis also plans to launch the Citroën C3 Hola panel van, marking its entry into the growing commercial vehicle sector to cater to small business owners.
