Leapmotor range‑extender tech could soon appear in Vauxhall, Peugeot and Citroën models
Bottom line: Stellantis is exploring Leapmotor’s small‑engine generator system for its European brands, meaning future Vauxhall, Peugeot and Citroën EVs may get a hybrid range‑extender that adds up to 590 miles of total range with very low CO2 emissions.
Leapmotor Range‑Extender Tech Set to Hit Vauxhall, Peugeot & Citroën – Mileage, Price and What It Means
Image: Leapmotor Range‑Extender Tech Set to Hit Vauxhall, Peugeot & Citroën – Mileage, Price and What It Means – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
Leapmotor’s current SUVs – the B10 and C10 – keep a sleek, modern silhouette that fits well with the design language of Stellantis’s European lineup. If the REx system is adapted, it will likely stay hidden under the rear boot floor, preserving the clean look of cars like the Vauxhall Corsa or Peugeot 208. That means owners won’t see a bulky engine package; the styling remains sporty and aerodynamic.
Performance & Mileage
The range‑extender works as a generator: a small petrol engine kicks in only when the battery drops below a set threshold, re‑charging it on the move. Official tests claim the C10 Hybrid can travel up to 590 miles on a full tank + battery while emitting just 10 g/km CO₂. For everyday drivers, that translates to worry‑free long trips without hunting for a charger.
| Engine | Mileage | Price | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 L petrol generator (REx) | Up to 590 mi (combined) | £30,000‑£35,000 (estimate) | Low CO₂, seamless EV‑to‑gen switch, same exterior design |
| Potential Vauxhall/Peugeot adaptation | ≈550‑580 mi | £28,000‑£33,000 | Stellantis platform share, familiar interiors |
| Standard pure‑EV (no REx) | ≈250‑300 mi | £25,000‑£30,000 | Zero tailpipe emissions, lower running costs |
Price & Rivals
Because Leapmotor builds 65 % of its components in‑house, the REx unit could keep costs competitive. Stellantis hopes to price the hybrid versions close to current pure‑EV offerings, giving buyers a cheaper alternative to full electric models while still meeting strict European emissions rules.
Key rivals include the Toyota Prius Prime and the Volvo XC40 Recharge Hybrid, both of which use larger gasoline engines. Leapmotor’s REx is smaller and claims lower CO₂, which could be a selling point for cost‑conscious shoppers.
FAQ
- What is the expected range of a Leapmotor‑based hybrid for Vauxhall? Up to about 590 miles total (electric plus generator) in official testing.
- Is the range‑extender a good interim solution for Europe? Yes – it lets drivers travel long distances while charging infrastructure catches up.
- Will the REx affect the price of a Peugeot model? Estimates suggest a modest premium of £2‑£3k over a pure EV, but still lower than many conventional hybrids.
What do you think about a hidden petrol generator in your next EV? Share your thoughts below!
Source: Read Official News
