Electric vehicles typically use a small 12-volt lead-acid battery, similar to those found in traditional gasoline-powered cars. This battery powers essential functions like lights, windshield wipers, infotainment systems, and safety features, while a larger battery powers the electric motor. Leapmotor, a Chinese automaker, is aiming to eliminate this secondary battery entirely. At its recent Tech Day in Hangzhou, the company unveiled a new vehicle architecture called LEAP 5.0, which uses a single battery to power all functions. The system, known as CTC 3.0 or "High-Low Fusion," integrates battery cells directly into the car's chassis, eliminating the need for a separate battery block. This approach, also used by other manufacturers like BYD, allows the same battery to supply both high voltage for the motor and low voltage for auxiliary systems. Leapmotor claims its new system has seven times the low-voltage capacity of previous models, making the 12-volt battery obsolete. Tesla previously replaced its 12-volt lead-acid battery with a small lithium-ion battery in its Model S and Model X in 2021, and later introduced a 48-volt low-voltage system in the Cybertruck in 2023. However, in both cases, a dedicated low-voltage battery was still installed alongside the main battery pack. Leapmotor, by contrast, claims to fully eliminate this component. However, questions remain about the practicality of removing the 12-volt battery. This secondary battery often acts as a backup in case the main battery fails, and it is also used for towing and repairs. Leapmotor has not yet provided details on how it plans to address these concerns, and more technical information would be helpful for consumers and mechanics. Leapmotor’s LEAP 5.0 architecture is designed to maximize interior space. By integrating the air conditioning and rear powertrain into a more compact unit, the system increases the length of the passenger compartment by 19%, while reducing the number of components by 18% and the length of wiring by 30%. The company also claims to increase interior height by 63.7% using a "skateboard" platform, which creates a flat floor and a higher roof. This design allows for more standing room, making the vehicle suitable for families, similar to a minivan. While specific models, prices, and full technical details are not yet available, the company says the first vehicles based on LEAP 5.0 and CTC 3.0 will be launched in 2027 and will eventually be sold in Europe. Leapmotor plans to produce its European models through its partnership with Stellantis, using the Spanish factory in Saragosse where its SUV, the B10, is already manufactured. This collaboration aims to streamline production and bring Leapmotor’s new electric vehicles to European markets. With its focus on space efficiency and integrated battery technology, Leapmotor is positioning itself as a competitor in the growing EV market, targeting both practicality and innovation.