Stellantis begins producing Leapmotor's electric SUV B10 in Spain, signaling a shift in its industrial strategy and potential tax benefits for European buyers.
Production begins in Spain
Stellantis has officially announced the start of production of the electric SUV B10 in its Spanish plant in Zaragoza. The vehicle is manufactured at the Figueruelas plant, near Zaragoza, which already assembles several models for European motorists, including the Peugeot 208, Opel Corsa, and Lancia Ypsilon.Details of the B10 model
The B10 is a strategic model for Leapmotor, with a length of 4.52 meters, 218 horsepower, and two battery options that allow it to travel between 361 and 434 kilometers according to the WLTP cycle. In France, its price starts at less than 30,000 euros.Future collaboration plans
The collaboration between Stellantis and Leapmotor could extend beyond the B10. Last May, the two companies mentioned their intention to strengthen their industrial ties. Among the projects considered is the production of a new electric SUV Opel in Zaragoza, potentially as early as 2028.Potential cost benefits for buyers
This could use components from the Leapmotor ecosystem to reduce manufacturing costs. Another model from the Chinese brand could also join the Stellantis plant in Madrid. The Spanish production may have implications for French motorists. The Leapmotor B10 should be exempt from the 30.7% tax applied to electric vehicles imported from China by the European Union.Eligibility for European grants
Additionally, by being assembled in Europe, the B10 approaches the criteria that allow it to benefit from the enhanced CEE grant, reserved for electric vehicles meeting certain European production requirements. This could include an additional boost if the battery cells are also manufactured in the European Economic Area and the model obtains the necessary regulatory validations.Shift in Stellantis' strategy
The grant varies between approximately 3,600 and 6,100 euros, which would make the price even more competitive. Stellantis is no longer just distributing Chinese cars in Europe but is now directly involved in their manufacturing. This change could signal a deeper transformation of its industrial model.
