Leapmotor unveils new architecture and plans second brand by 2027

Chinese EV manufacturer Leapmotor, supported by Stellantis, has announced a major strategic shift toward becoming an integrated technology provider, a move CEO Zhu Jiangming compares to Apple’s integration of hardware and software.

At its 2026 Tech Day, the company unveiled the LEAP 5.0 New Mobile Space Architecture and the CTC 3.0 High-Low Fusion Battery. The new architecture aims to increase cabin space efficiency by 100% and reduce component counts, while the CTC 3.0 battery technology is designed to eliminate the need for traditional 12V auxiliary batteries by integrating high and low voltage functions.

Leapmotor is also expanding its technological footprint by offering core components and architectures to other automakers. The company plans to launch a second premium brand in late 2027 based on the LEAP 5.0 platform. Additionally, Leapmotor is rolling out its Leapmotor World Model (LWM) AI-based driving assistance system, which will be provided via free lifetime OTA updates to approximately 350,000 existing lidar-equipped vehicles starting in early 2027.

On the commercial front, Leapmotor has seen significant growth, recently surpassing Japanese manufacturers Subaru and Mitsubishi in quarterly global sales. The company is actively expanding its presence in Europe and Argentina, utilizing hybrid and electric models to target diverse markets.