Stellantis, the world’s largest automobile group. They have officially entered the Indian electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of the Chinese EV brand Leapmotor. It is Stellantis’ fourth brand in India. Following Citroen, Jeep, and Maserati. Represents the company’s strategic move to increase its EV presence in one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.
Launch Timeline and Market Strategy used by Stellantis
Though Stellantis had originally set 2024’s fourth quarter. As the target for Leapmotor EVs’ launch in India. The launch has been postponed, with no specific timeline given so far. The firm is poised to start India operations this year. Beginning with production of completely knocked down (CKD) kits at its Ranjangaon plant. Followed by incremental localisation depending on market feedback and business feasibility. Leapmotor will foray into India via Leapmotor International. Which is a 51:49 joint venture between Stellantis with exclusive rights for manufacturing, selling, and exporting. The company plans to capitalize on Stellantis’ pre-existing dealer network in India.
Product Line-Up and Positioning by Stellantis-Leapmotor
- T03 Hatchback: Touted as a competitor to the Tata Tiago EV. The T03 is equipped with a 70 kW (95 HP) engine, a 37.3 kWh battery. Has a WLTP range of up to 266 km. It is also fast charging-capable. Being able to replenish from 30% to 80% in only 36 minutes with a 48 kW DC charger.
- C10 Midsize SUV: 5-seater electric SUV for competition against products. Such as Hyundai Creta Electric, MG Windsor, and forthcoming Maruti e Vitara. The C10 will be CKD-badged built for the starting.
Stellatis aims to offer Leapmotor’s lineup in India six battery cars by the year 2027 to have its range accessible for a wide array of client desires in the electric vehicle industry.
Shailesh Hazela, Stellantis India Managing Director and CEO, said in a statement: “We’re pleased to announce the arrival of Leapmotor brand in India. Further reinforcing our commitment to the country. We already have a robust presence in India with our Jeep and Citroën brands. We fully comprehend the strategic significance and huge potential the Indian market offers. Across the world, Leapmotor is changing electric mobility with a commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. We are eager to introduce premium EVs to India’s rising aspirational consumers. Cars that redefine contemporary driving with technology, comfort, and sustainability.”
Industry Context and Challenges
Leapmotor shipped close to 300,000 vehicles worldwide in 2024. Doubling its year-on-year growth, and is already established in countries like Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand. The brand’s arrival in India is part of Stellantis’ overall strategy. To encourage sustainable, low-carbon mobility solutions. But industry analysts point to challenges in the pipeline. Such as building a viable business model in India’s competitive electric vehicle space. Leapmotor founder Zhu Jiangming has confirmed the challenge of profitability in India. The entry of Leapmotor EVs in India also coincides with increasing competition. With other foreign EV players such as Vinfast planning to commence local operations. Tesla negotiating tariffs with the Indian government.
ELCTRIK Speaks
Stellantis’ launch of Leapmotor EVs in India is a key milestone in India’s electric mobility journey. By targeting affordable, tech-savvy models. The T03 hatchback and C10 SUV, Stellantis looks to grab India’s growing environmentally aware. The next few months will tell us how fast Leapmotor can establish itself. And become a part of the speeding-up EV adoption in India.
