Leapmotor: The "self-made" new player in EVs, powered by Stellantis.
The Stellantis strategic investment and Leapmotor international.
European distribution network – Partnering with Stellantis infrastructure.
Presence in Greece and local market support.
After-Sales Support and Smart Connectivity.
Founding vision and In-house Innovation
Founded in 2015 in Hangzhou, China by engineer Zhu Jiangming, Leapmotor set out to become a pioneer in fully electric vehicles by developing its core components entirely in-house. Unlike many Chinese EV startups that rely heavily on external suppliers, Leapmotor designs and manufactures its own electric motors, inverters, and battery packs. This strategy offers a competitive edge in cost control, quality assurance, and long-term reliability.
The Stellantis strategic investment and Leapmotor international
Within just a few years, Leapmotor became one of the fastest-growing EV manufacturers in China, surpassing 150,000 units in annual sales. In 2023, this momentum attracted the attention of Stellantis, which invested €1.5 billion in exchange for a 20% equity stake in the company.
This deal led to the formation of Leapmotor International, a joint venture through which Stellantis oversees the global export and distribution of Leapmotor vehicles outside China. It marks the largest European market entry ever attempted by a Chinese EV brand.
European distribution network – Partnering with Stellantis infrastructure
Thanks to its alliance with Stellantis, Leapmotor can tap into an already-established network across Europe, leveraging the sales and service infrastructure of brands such as Fiat, Peugeot, Citroën, and Opel.
Starting in autumn 2024, Leapmotor began retail operations in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, and Greece, with a target of 700 sales and service points across Europe by the end of 2025. The Netherlands has been selected as the brand’s central hub for European operations.
Presence in Greece and local market support
In Greece, Leapmotor is officially represented by Italian Motion, which is connected to the Autohellas Group (and the Israeli automotive powerhouse Samelet).
Samelet, with a legacy dating back to 1946, is one of Israel’s most prominent distributors, handling brands like Jeep, Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, and Maserati. Their involvement brings valuable international experience and operational know-how to Leapmotor’s Greek debut.
Greece was selected as one of the launch markets and serves as a pilot country for Southeastern Europe. The sales and service infrastructure is built upon existing facilities, ensuring nationwide coverage and support by certified electric vehicle technicians.
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