Leapmotor might not be a name you’re familiar with just yet, but that’s about to change. The Chinese newcomer is making its way into Ireland, supported in Europe by Stellantis, the powerhouse group behind Citroën, Peugeot, and Fiat. That backing gives Leapmotor a ready-made dealer and servicing network, which should help build trust for drivers trying something fresh.

Performance

The T03 is designed first and foremost as a city runabout, and in that environment it shines. The tall stance and wide windows give you a commanding view of the road, while the compact shape makes parking a breeze. Power comes from a 95hp electric motor, which feels lively and eager compared to many petrol-powered city cars, particularly when darting away from the lights.

Light steering and soft suspension tuning make it easy to thread through traffic and soak up potholes. There are quirks, though. The low-speed pedestrian warning system is overly intrusive inside the cabin, and the driver-assist tech can sometimes feel more like interference than support. Out on the motorway the T03 isn’t out of its depth, but it’s clearly happiest on the city roads.

Range and Charging

A 37.3kWh battery gives the T03 a claimed range of around 265km. In day-to-day town driving, expect something closer to 200km, while extended motorway runs will knock that figure down noticeably. Charging isn’t its strongest suit either: a 10–80% top-up takes more than 45 minutes on a rapid charger, reminding you that this is a car better suited for home charging and shorter journeys.

Against rivals like the Dacia Spring, the Leapmotor edges ahead on range, though it sacrifices a little efficiency to get there. For most households, it will serve well as a second vehicle dedicated to city life.

Design and Interior

Where some small EVs lean on sharp, aggressive styling, the T03 takes a friendlier approach. Rounded headlights give it a playful, almost cartoon character look, while its tall, narrow profile is reminiscent of Japanese kei cars. It’s compact, but charming.

Inside, space is surprisingly generous for four passengers, although squeezing five in is a stretch. The boot, at just 210 litres, is small even by city car standards, but you can’t have it all.

The cabin itself is far from bargain basement. A clean, minimalist design pairs with a bright 10.1-inch infotainment screen and an 8-inch digital driver’s display. Throw in touches like a panoramic sunroof and the T03 feels modern and well equipped, easily outshining what you’d expect at this price point.

Cost Considerations

Though Irish pricing is yet to be announced, it’s where the T03 is expected to make its boldest statement. Coming in as one of the most affordable EVs in Europe and expected to be sub €20K, it undercuts most electric options on the market and gives the Dacia Spring some real competition. For the money, standard kit is generous: dual displays, reversing camera, air conditioning, keyless start, and a suite of driver aids all come as standard.

Verdict

The Leapmotor T03 isn’t perfect, its range and charging speeds limit it to urban use, but as a stylish, affordable city EV, it makes a strong case for itself. It’s fun to drive, surprisingly spacious, and comes packed with features that make daily life easier.

Want to see it for yourself? The Leapmotor T03 will be on display at the Nevo EV Show this November at the RDS Dublin, where you can explore it up close alongside a host of other exciting EVs