Leapmotor B03 Approved for Australia to Rival Cheap EVs
- The Leapmotor B03 electric hatchback has secured official government approval for sale in Australia, clearing the path for the Chinese automaker to enter the country's budget-friendly electric vehicle...
- Australian-bound models will feature two distinct motor options approved for local roads, consisting of a base 130kW unit and a more powerful 145kW variant.
- In German market testing, the 39.8kWh battery pairs with the 130kW motor to deliver a driving range of 292km under the WLTP standard, achieving a 0-100km/h acceleration time...
The Leapmotor B03 electric hatchback has secured official government approval for sale in Australia, clearing the path for the Chinese automaker to enter the country’s budget-friendly electric vehicle segment against established rivals like BYD and Geely. CarExpert first reported the regulatory clearance, which positions the compact model to target entry-level buyers seeking affordable battery-powered transport.
Powertrain and Performance Specifications
Australian-bound models will feature two distinct motor options approved for local roads, consisting of a base 130kW unit and a more powerful 145kW variant. Both motor configurations generate 200Nm of torque and drive the front wheels of the electric hatchback, according to regulatory filings. European specifications show that the B03 and its related B03X SUV sibling are paired with different battery capacities depending on the output.
In German market testing, the 39.8kWh battery pairs with the 130kW motor to deliver a driving range of 292km under the WLTP standard, achieving a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 8.6 seconds. Meanwhile, the larger 53kWh battery pairs with the 145kW motor to achieve a 382km WLTP range and supports DC fast-charging at up to 133kW. Despite the output difference, Leapmotor lists an identical 8.6-second sprint time for the heavier 145kW configuration. The lower, more aerodynamic B03 hatchback is anticipated by industry observers to show slightly improved efficiency and speed compared to the B03X SUV.
Dimensions and Local Pricing Expectations
The approved hatchback measures 4175mm in length, 1790mm in width, and 1560mm in height, utilizing a 2605mm wheelbase. All local variants will ride on either 16-inch or 17-inch wheels wrapped in consistent 205/55 tyres. While Leapmotor has not yet announced official local pricing or final specifications, market analysts widely expect the B03X SUV to start around $30,000, which points to a sub-$30,000 starting price for the smaller B03 hatchback.
A sub-$30,000 entry point places the Leapmotor hatchback directly into a tight budget category currently occupied by just three competing electric models. The cheapest option in this bracket is the entry-level BYD Atto 1 Essential, priced from $23,990 with a 65kW/175Nm motor, a 30kWh battery, and a 220km WLTP range. That model is followed by the Geely EX2 Complete at $26,490, featuring a 60kW/150Nm motor, a 35kWh battery, and a 252km range.
Market Competition in the Sub-$30,000 EV Segment
Buyers shopping at the upper end of the budget spectrum can also choose the BYD Atto 1 Premium at $27,990, which upgrades performance to an 115kW/220Nm motor, a 43kWh battery, and a 310km range. Rounding out the current quartet is the BYD Dolphin Essential at $29,990, equipped with a 70kW/180Nm motor, a 45kWh battery, and an estimated 340km WLTP range. All listed prices represent standard list figures and exclude local on-road costs.
Leapmotor has not yet confirmed a specific release date or the exact battery configurations that will make it to Australian showrooms. Additional details regarding local equipment grades and final retail pricing are expected closer to the brand’s official market launch.