The 2026 Leapmotor C10 SUV has been officially revealed in China, bringing a wave of significant upgrades to its electric and range-extender hybrid variants. Backed by Stellantis and under consideration for an Australian release by the end of the year, the refreshed C10 is now better equipped to compete in the global EV market thanks to enhancements in performance, technology, and efficiency.
More Power with 800-Volt Architecture
A standout change in the 2026 Leapmotor C10 EV is its move from a 400-volt to an 800-volt electrical architecture. This marks a leap forward in charging efficiency, system cooling, and overall power delivery. Alongside this shift, the electric variant now features a more powerful 220kW motor, up from the previous 170kW unit in China.
With this upgrade, Leapmotor claims the EV version can sprint from 0-100km/h in just 5.9 seconds—1.4 seconds faster than the outgoing model. The improvement is even more dramatic when compared to the 160kW global-spec C10 EV currently sold in Australia, which completes the same sprint in 7.5 seconds.
However, it’s not yet confirmed whether these performance enhancements will reach the Australian market. A spokesperson from Stellantis Australia stated that the updates are “under consideration” and final specifications won’t be announced until later in the year.
Extended Range and Larger Battery
Accompanying the powertrain improvements is a new 74.9kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack—up from the previous 69.9kWh version. According to Chinese CLTC testing, this allows the C10 EV to achieve a claimed driving range of 605 kilometres, giving it greater long-distance usability.
The existing Australian-spec C10 EV offers a lower range with its 160kW motor and smaller battery pack, meaning the upgraded version would present a notable improvement for prospective local buyers if adopted.
Hybrid Model Remains Unchanged
While the EV variant enjoys a notable overhaul, the range-extender plug-in hybrid C10 sees no major mechanical changes. It retains a 158kW electric motor powered by a 28.4kWh battery. A 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine remains onboard as a generator, charging the battery when required, but never directly powering the wheels.
This configuration allows the C10 hybrid to serve as a compelling choice for buyers looking for extended driving range without committing fully to a battery-electric vehicle—especially in regions where charging infrastructure may still be developing.
Enhanced Infotainment and Interior Features
The 2026 Leapmotor C10 also benefits from technological enhancements in the cabin. Chief among them is an updated infotainment system powered by the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295P processor. This upgrade is expected to deliver faster response times, better multitasking, and a more seamless user interface.
A new 50-watt wireless phone charger replaces the previous unit, offering faster charging speeds for compatible smartphones. Additional interior upgrades include power-operated exterior door handles and a striking new purple paint option that broadens the C10’s customization appeal.
Australian Pricing and Availability
In China, the updated 2026 Leapmotor C10 EV starts from 139,800 yuan (approximately AUD $30,000), while the range-extender hybrid begins at 129,800 yuan (AUD $29,000). These prices are highly competitive for their segment, particularly considering the upgraded technology and performance.
By comparison, the 2025 C10 currently sold in Australia is priced from $43,888 before on-road costs for the hybrid and $45,888 for the EV. While the Australian-spec model is priced higher due to import costs and regulatory requirements, the local version may benefit from reduced pricing or improved specs if the 2026 update reaches local shores.
Leapmotor’s local distributor, Stellantis Australia—also responsible for Jeep, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo—has confirmed the brand is evaluating the update for a potential launch. However, no timeline or official specifications have been released.
Competitive Landscape
If Leapmotor brings the 800-volt architecture and more powerful 220kW motor to Australia, it would mark a significant step toward competing with more established players like Tesla, Hyundai, and BYD in the affordable electric SUV space.
Leapmotor has already made a quiet but growing impact on the local EV market. Since its Australian launch in late 2024, VFACTS data shows that 202 C10 units were delivered by the end of March 2025. The addition of more range, faster performance, and cutting-edge technology could help boost those numbers further.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Leapmotor C10 appears to be a meaningful upgrade over the current model, especially for tech-savvy and performance-conscious EV buyers. With its jump to 800V architecture, more powerful 220kW electric motor, longer range, and enhanced infotainment system, the C10 is positioning itself as a serious contender in the mid-size electric SUV market.
While Stellantis Australia remains cautious in confirming the updated model for local release, there’s no doubt the revisions would strengthen Leapmotor’s case among value-driven buyers. If the 2026 version makes it to Australia by the end of the year, it could help cement Leapmotor as a key player in the nation’s expanding EV landscape.