The 2026 Leapmotor C10 has officially debuted in China with significant upgrades to power, technology, and battery architecture—enhancing its appeal ahead of a potential Australian launch later this year. Backed by global automotive giant Stellantis, the Chinese EV and plug-in hybrid maker has reworked its flagship mid-size SUV to better compete in an increasingly competitive global electric vehicle market.
Upgraded 800V Architecture and More Powerful Electric Motor
A key upgrade for the 2026 Leapmotor C10 is the move from a 400-volt system to an 800-volt electrical architecture. This change promises faster charging speeds and improved overall efficiency. The updated battery platform now supports a 220kW electric motor for the all-electric variant in China—up from the previous 170kW.
This new setup improves the SUV’s acceleration time significantly. The updated C10 EV reportedly completes the 0–100km/h sprint in just 5.9 seconds, a 1.4-second gain over the older model. For comparison, the current global version—offered in markets like Australia—features a slightly lower-rated 160kW/320Nm motor with a 7.5-second acceleration time.
Whether the global market will receive the upgraded 220kW motor remains unconfirmed. Stellantis Australia, responsible for distributing Leapmotor locally alongside its Jeep and Alfa Romeo brands, stated that “specs for the 2026 version are under consideration” and final details would be confirmed later in the year.
Bigger Battery, Longer Range
To complement the enhanced power output, the 2026 Leapmotor C10 EV now carries a larger 74.9kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery—up from 69.9kWh in the previous version. This upgrade extends the driving range to a claimed 605 kilometres based on the CLTC testing cycle.
This range boost not only brings the Leapmotor C10 closer to the capabilities of more established rivals like the Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Ioniq 5 but also positions it as a more practical option for long-distance drivers.
Infotainment Tech Upgrade: Snapdragon 8295P Chipset
Another key improvement lies inside the cabin. The 2026 Leapmotor C10 receives a major infotainment system upgrade with the addition of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8295P chip. This enhanced processing platform should offer smoother, faster UI responsiveness and improved app integration, making day-to-day driving a more refined digital experience.
Other new tech inclusions for the 2026 update include:
- A faster 50-watt wireless phone charger
- Newly added power-operated exterior door handles
- A new exterior colour option in deep metallic purple
These small but thoughtful additions bring a more premium feel to the vehicle, aligning Leapmotor with higher-end competition.
Range-Extender Plug-in Hybrid Carries Over Unchanged
While the full-electric variant gets the lion’s share of upgrades, the 2026 C10’s range-extender plug-in hybrid model remains mechanically unchanged. It retains a 158kW electric motor powered by a 28.4kWh battery, paired with a 1.5-litre petrol engine used solely for charging the battery rather than direct propulsion.
This model offers customers a practical compromise between EV performance and long-distance versatility, especially appealing in regions where charging infrastructure is still developing.
Local Line-Up and Pricing
In Australia, the Leapmotor C10 launched in late 2024 with two drivetrain options:
- Range-extender hybrid: From $43,888 before on-road costs
- Full EV: From $45,888 before on-road costs
These prices are significantly higher than those in China, where the updated 2026 EV starts from 139,800 yuan (approximately $30,000 AUD), and the hybrid from 129,800 yuan (around $29,000 AUD). However, these price differences are typical due to freight, taxes, and compliance costs for Australian-market vehicles.
So far, Leapmotor’s local traction has been modest, with 202 new C10 units delivered across the country between late 2024 and the end of March 2025. With competition intensifying in the EV segment, especially from BYD, Tesla, and MG, this updated C10 may be critical to Leapmotor’s long-term success in Australia.
Will Australia Get the 2026 Leapmotor C10?
While the 2025 C10 is already on sale locally, the arrival of the updated 2026 model remains under discussion. The significant improvements in performance, charging, and infotainment could help boost Leapmotor’s appeal, especially among tech-savvy buyers looking for affordable alternatives to premium EV brands.
Stellantis Australia has confirmed that the upgrades are “under consideration,” suggesting that a local rollout may be decided based on global demand and supply chain availability later in 2025.
What This Means for Australian Buyers
If approved, the upgraded 2026 Leapmotor C10 could offer:
- Faster acceleration (from 7.5 to 5.9 seconds)
- Improved range (up to 605km CLTC)
- Faster charging times thanks to 800V architecture
- Enhanced infotainment via Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295P
- Premium features like 50W wireless charging and power door handles
These improvements, if priced competitively, could position the C10 as a formidable new option in Australia’s growing EV landscape, especially in the mid-size SUV segment.
Conclusion
The 2026 Leapmotor C10’s upgrades reflect the brand’s intention to be a serious global EV contender. With faster acceleration, a more capable battery, and refined tech upgrades, the new model offers much-needed improvements over its predecessor. If it reaches Australian shores, it could redefine what buyers expect from a value-packed electric SUV.