A New Direction for Leapmotor

In its home market, the new electric hatchback from Leapmotor is known as the Lafa 5. While the moniker might seem unusual for the company’s rapidly expanding portfolio, Tianshu Xin, CEO of Leapmotor International—the joint venture with Stellantis—explains that the founder, Jiangling Zhu, specifically chose the name to signify that the vehicle is a unique, sportier proposition compared to the brand's other offerings. For international markets, however, the car has been rebranded as the B05 to align with the company’s global naming convention alongside the B10 SUV.


Design and Engineering

Spanning just under 4.5 meters in length with a 2.7-meter wheelbase, the B05 enters the highly competitive C-segment. While its silhouette draws subtle inspiration from the Volkswagen Golf, its technical DNA—featuring a rear-mounted motor and a battery-electric powertrain—makes it a direct rival to models like the Volkswagen ID.3. The vehicle stands out with its "cell-to-chassis" battery integration, which allows for a lower cabin profile and improved structural efficiency. The chassis has been refined in collaboration with Stellantis to ensure it meets the driving dynamics expected by European consumers.


Performance and Efficiency

For international buyers, the B05 will be available in its most robust configuration:

  • Power Output: 215bhp
  • Acceleration: 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds
  • Battery: 67.1kWh capacity
  • Range: 300 miles (WLTP)
  • Charging: Up to 170kW DC fast charging

This powertrain setup positions the B05 as a strong contender in terms of both daily usability and rapid-charging capabilities.


Interior and Tech

The cabin is dominated by a 14.6-inch HD central touchscreen and an 8.8-inch digital driver display. While the interface relies heavily on menus, essential controls remain accessible at the base of the screen. The interior design emphasizes space and light, enhanced by a panoramic sunroof. Noteworthy features include frameless doors that provide a premium feel and a practical 345-liter cargo area. The company has opted for a simplified trim strategy, offering a generous standard equipment list with only minor choices regarding interior color schemes.


Driving Impressions

Initial testing on a closed circuit indicates that the B05 is a composed and direct vehicle. It exhibits well-managed body roll during cornering and handles uneven surfaces, such as cobbles, with surprising refinement. It may not offer the extreme performance of a sports car, but it feels responsive and balanced for a car in its class.


«The B05 adds a whiff of dynamism to the Leapmotor formula. It feels unlikely to match class leaders, but stylish design and plenty of kit could make it a tempting budget alternative.»

With an estimated starting price likely to sit below the £30,000 mark, the B05 presents a compelling value proposition for those looking for an affordable alternative to established European electric hatchbacks like the Cupra Born or the Renault Megane E-Tech.