Leapmotor Reportedly Plans Second Brand for Higher-End EV Market

Key Takeaways

• Leapmotor aims to launch premium brand in 2027 priced above ¥300k ($44k).
• 2025 deliveries hit 596,555 units, a 103% YoY increase.
• Net profit 2025 reached ¥540m ($79m), second Chinese EV startup profitable.
• Goal: 1 million vehicles and ¥5bn ($732m) profit in 2026.

Pulse Analysis

Leapmotor’s rapid ascent reflects the broader maturation of China’s electric‑vehicle sector. After more than doubling deliveries in 2025 and posting a modest profit of ¥540 million, the company has proven it can scale production while edging toward sustainable earnings. Yet its current lineup leans heavily on sub‑$20,000 models, limiting margin potential. By introducing a high‑end brand priced above ¥300,000, Leapmotor seeks to capture a more lucrative segment and reduce reliance on carbon‑credit revenues that have bolstered its bottom line.

The premium push leverages Leapmotor’s strategic partnership with Stellantis, which brings decades of luxury‑brand expertise from Maserati and other marques. An independent sales network will be essential to service discerning customers and maintain brand differentiation. Simultaneously, Leapmotor is accelerating its overseas expansion, with Europe already accounting for over a third of sales and a target of 60% of total volume. This geographic diversification mitigates domestic market volatility and aligns with global demand for affordable yet high‑quality EVs.

If successful, Leapmotor’s new brand could reshape competitive dynamics in both China and export markets. Established players such as BYD and Nio have already introduced premium offerings, so Leapmotor must deliver compelling design, technology, and service to win market share. Investors will watch the 2026 sales and profit targets closely; achieving the ¥5 billion profit goal would signal a transition from a volume‑driven startup to a margin‑focused automaker, potentially unlocking higher valuations and broader strategic partnerships.