Piston.my

Leapmotor Launches B05 EV Hatchback in China – 215hp, 605km of Range

Leapmotor has unveiled its latest compact electric hatchback, the B05 — known in China as the Lafa5 — with five trim levels designed to meet varied budgets and driving needs. The model starts with the 515 Plus at 97,800 yuan (about USD 13,800), while the top-end 605 Max fetches 121,800 yuan. Early buyers benefit from a roughly 5,000 yuan discount across the line-up.

Built on the LEAP 3.5 platform, the B05 measures 4,430 mm in length, 1,880 mm in width and 1,520 mm in height, riding on a 2,735 mm wheelbase, similar in size to the smart #3. Buyers can choose between two battery configurations — a 56.2 kWh pack for a CLTC-rated 515 km range, or a 67.1 kWh pack for 605 km. Both use a rear-mounted electric motor, available in outputs of 177hp or 215hp.

Inside, the B05 offers a modern cabin complete with an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.6-inch 2.5K central touchscreen running Leapmotor OS 4.0 Plus on a Snapdragon-based processor. Depending on trim, equipment may include ventilated and heated seats, a panoramic roof, 256-colour ambient lighting, wireless charging built into a cleverly designed “magic expansion island” centre console, and upholstery spanning fabric, faux-suede, or Nappa leather.

Higher-spec variants step up the technological ante: a roof-mounted LiDAR unit paired with a 200 TOPS computing platform and 27 perception sensors delivers advanced driver-assistance features — putting the B05 among the most feature-packed compact EVs currently available in China.

The exterior leans into a youthful, modern vibe: frameless doors with hidden handles, a sealed front fascia, and a fastback roofline. Colour options such as Electric Yellow, Starsky Blue and Morgan Pink make styling dynamic and distinctive. Leapmotor has already confirmed plans for a sportier “Lafa 5 Ultra” version in the second quarter of 2026, which will bring a more aggressive body kit and black 19-inch wheels.

The B05 (Lafa5) marks the beginning of a new family for Leapmotor, with “Lafa” standing for Lifestyle, Attitude, Freedom and Art. The company says this series will form a global offering starting 2026 — signalling a confident expansion of its EV portfolio beyond China.

Fuelled by cigarettes, coffee, the smell of petrol and 90's rock music

Related Articles