Stellantis-backed Leapmotor breaks into premium EV segment with D19 SUV in China
globalchinaev
• 2 days ago • 3 min read
Source: Leapmotor
On October 16, 2025, Leapmotor unveiled its D19 flagship SUV at the company’s D-platform technology event, marking its entry into China’s 250,000–300,000 CNY (c. $34,000–$41,000) premium EV segment. The model represents Leapmotor’s attempt to move upward beyond its established mid-market base of 100,000–150,000 CNY.
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The D19 is the first model under Leapmotor’s new “D Series,” positioned as a full-size, six-seat SUV to compete with the Li Auto L8 and similar family-oriented electric SUVs.
The launch coincides with Leapmotor’s record sales performance—nearly 400,000 units in the first nine months of 2025, up 128.8% year-on-year—with September deliveries reaching 66,700 units, maintaining a seven-month lead among China’s new-energy vehicle startups.

Source: Leapmotor
Company founder, chairman, and CEO Zhu Jiangming described the D platform as Leapmotor’s most advanced architecture to date, integrating ten years of R&D. The model serves as the brand’s technological benchmark and expansion point into the premium segment.
The D19 will be offered in both extended-range and pure-electric variants. The extended-range version features a 1.5 T generator with 400 kW combined output, paired with an 80.3 kWh battery and 40 L fuel tank, enabling over 500 km (310 mi) of pure-electric range.
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The battery-electric version employs CATL’s 115 kWh “super hybrid” cells, supports 1,000 V architecture, and delivers 720 km (447 mi) of range with 15-minute charging for 350 km (217 mi).
Built on a body exceeding 5.2 m (17.1 ft) in length and 3.1 m (10.2 ft) in wheelbase, the SUV adopts a three-row, six-seat layout.

Source: Leapmotor
The second row features 260 mm sliding rails for adjustable seating, while the third row provides legroom suitable for adult passengers—an uncommon feature in its class.
The vehicle debuts a dual-Qualcomm Snapdragon 8797 central compute unit with 1,280 TOPS processing capability. Its integrated cockpit-driving fusion architecture reduces latency and improves system stability.
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Chassis control is managed by Leapmotor’s LMC 2.0 system, offering dual-wheel burst control, a “smooth-ride” algorithm, and a tight 3.6 m turning radius.
Leapmotor has not disclosed pricing or delivery timelines, but the starting price may fall below 300,000 CNY (c. $41,000), to undercut Li Auto (NASDAQ:LI), AITO, and NIO (NYSE:NIO) in the same segment.

Source: Leapmotor
The company’s brand ambassador, actor Fei Xiang, was announced alongside the D19 to reinforce its “luxury for all” market positioning.
The D19 launch extends Leapmotor’s product matrix across four series (A, B, C, D), spanning sedans, SUVs, and MPVs.
If priced aggressively below 300,000 CNY, the D19 could potentially dominate the segment with flagship-level range and hardware at mid-market prices.
Conversion rate: 1 USD = 7.25 CNY as of October 18, 2025.
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