- New Horizons in the Higher Price Segment: Why Now?
- The Flagship Vehicle: A Large and Fully Equipped SUV for the Elite Market
- Advanced Technologies to Boost Competitiveness
- Leapmotor Does Not Underestimate Itself: A New Challenge Announced
- What Does Leapmotor’s Entry Into the Premium Market Mean?
- Testing Phase and Launch Readiness: Entering Critical Summer Trials
- Leapmotor’s Remarkable Growth Supports the Ambition
- What’s Next?
In the rapidly growing and competitive landscape of the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) industry, Leapmotor is preparing to strengthen its presence in the premium segment by launching a new lineup called the D-Series. This strategic move aims to target the higher-priced segment, focusing on advanced technologies and a superior luxury driving experience. After notable successes in the mid- and low-price segments with its B and C series, Leapmotor today confirms its ambition to enter the premium EV market, which is expected to raise the bar for local competitors and may also pave the way for expansion in international markets.
New Horizons in the Higher Price Segment: Why Now?
Leapmotor was founded with a clear vision to offer high-quality electric vehicles at competitive prices, enabling rapid growth and record sales in recent years. Now, reaching a more mature stage, the natural next step is to expand the portfolio into the luxury car category—a sector that is more demanding in terms of technology, design, and lifestyle value reflected by these vehicles.
The company’s Chief Operating Officer, Xuan Jin, stated on Weibo that the first model in the D-Series will be a full-sized SUV suited for the luxury market’s requirements and equipped with the latest innovations available from the company, possibly even surpassing what has been seen in teaser images circulating on social media.
The Flagship Vehicle: A Large and Fully Equipped SUV for the Elite Market
According to 3D imagery shared by an automotive blogger on Weibo, the first D-Series SUV is expected to be the largest electric SUV in China for 2025. This model will represent Leapmotor’s flagship, targeting a price segment around 300,000 Chinese Yuan (approximately 41,840 USD).
A key highlight is the availability of multiple powertrain options, including a fully electric (BEV) version as well as a range-extended electric vehicle (EREV) variant. This gives customers the freedom to choose the type of technology that best fits their performance and range needs.
Advanced Technologies to Boost Competitiveness
The D-Series will be built on an advanced technical platform. Company statements indicate that the new model will rely on highly sophisticated technologies that rival or even exceed options currently available in both domestic and international markets. Forefront technologies expected include:
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with the latest versions.
Sophisticated electric powertrain engineering promising extended range and high energy efficiency.
Fast charging technologies compatible with emerging grid infrastructures.
Luxurious interior featuring high-quality materials and intelligent control systems.
Innovative connectivity and infotainment systems delivering a seamless passenger experience.
Leapmotor Does Not Underestimate Itself: A New Challenge Announced
Leapmotor’s Executive Vice President, Zhao Li, expressed that despite the local market perception of the company as a more affordable alternative to brands like Li Auto, the D-Series aims to change this view dramatically. He said:
"Leapmotor is not just a 'half-priced' copy of Li Auto as some describe. We plan to offer something different, newer, and superior in terms of quality and technology."
This signals the dawn of a new era where the company intends to prove it can compete in the highest segment, where design, performance, and technological excellence are essential.
What Does Leapmotor’s Entry Into the Premium Market Mean?
Raising the Bar in Chinese EV Competition: Leapmotor’s bold step into the higher price class intensifies competition with established premium EV makers like Li Auto, NIO, and Xpeng.
Expanding Market Share: Serving customers seeking luxurious EVs will increase Leapmotor’s share in one of the fastest-growing segments.
Enhancing Local Innovation: The premium segment demands new innovations, which can spill over to improve more affordable models eventually.
Opportunity for Global Expansion: Success in this segment may support Leapmotor’s expansion plans into overseas markets, fitting global demand for premium EVs.
Testing Phase and Launch Readiness: Entering Critical Summer Trials
Leapmotor officials confirmed that the first D-Series model has already entered summer testing, a key phase to validate the vehicle’s adaptability to diverse environments and driving conditions. This stage will assess build quality, system safety, and driving stability on various roads.
The initial test phase is expected to conclude soon, paving the way for official announcements and marketing campaigns, marking a new chapter for the company.
Leapmotor’s Remarkable Growth Supports the Ambition
This major step comes after a phase of impressive growth, with Leapmotor reporting delivery of 48,006 vehicles in June 2025—a 138.65% year-over-year increase—with consistent monthly growth. In the first half of the year, total sales exceeded 221,664 vehicles, demonstrating strong customer confidence and intense market traction for its diverse offerings.
This success forms a strong foundation to launch the D-Series and solidify Leapmotor’s position on the EV map, raising ambitions to new heights.
What’s Next?
The D-Series is expected to spark major industry discussions in the Chinese and potentially global EV communities, especially as more official information and media appearances for the new model emerge.
The big question remains: Will Leapmotor be able to challenge the top brands in this demanding segment? The answer lies in balancing quality, innovation, and a genuine response to consumer needs.
