Leapmotor has unveiled the A05s, a compact electric vehicle featuring roof-mounted LiDAR, as part of its push to reach 1 million deliveries in 2026. The new model is positioned as a ‘smart and nimble premium sedan’ and will compete directly with popular rivals like the BYD Dolphin and Geely Xingyuan.
Leapmotor A05s: Expanding the A-Series Lineup
Leapmotor, backed by Stellantis NV, has previewed the A05s as the second model in its A-series lineup, following the A10. The A05s introduces advanced hardware such as a prominent roof-mounted LiDAR sensor, bringing this technology into the compact EV segment.
The company describes the A05s as a “smart and nimble premium sedan.” Official images reveal a compact hatchback with a ‘pink-and-ink’ two-tone body, rounded design, and semi-hidden door handles. The taillight clusters feature a distinctive smiley-face design, continuing Leapmotor’s family styling.
Technical Details and Powertrain Options
According to filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the A05s measures 4,200 mm (~165 inches) in length, 1,800 mm (~71 inches) in width, and 1,560 mm (~61 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,605 mm (~103 inches).
The A05s offers two motor outputs: 70 kW and 90 kW. Battery options include 39.8 kWh and 53 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) packs, delivering ranges of 405 km (~252 miles) and 510 km (~317 miles), respectively. Battery suppliers for the model are Gotion High-tech and Zenergy.
Market Position and Competitive Landscape
Leapmotor is targeting the budget-friendly compact EV segment with the A05s, aiming to compete with established models such as the BYD Dolphin and Geely Xingyuan. The move to offer LiDAR at this price point follows BYD’s recent addition of a LiDAR option to its Seagull model.
The A05s is expected to play a key role in Leapmotor’s strategy to reach its ambitious delivery goals for 2026.
Sales Momentum and Delivery Targets
Leapmotor management stated during its March earnings call that the A05 would launch during the summer, with new models like the A10 projected to contribute 60% of total sales in 2026.
The A10, launched in March, is priced from $9,662 (~AUD 13,939) to $12,746 (~AUD 18,388) and achieved record sales of 26,804 units in June, up 16.48% from May. Leapmotor delivered 93,376 vehicles globally in June, a 94.51% year-on-year increase, and reached a cumulative 356,487 units in the first half of the year, up 60.82% year-on-year.
Why this matters
The introduction of LiDAR-equipped compact EVs like the A05s signals a shift in the Chinese EV market, where advanced driver-assistance hardware is becoming accessible in entry-level models. This move could accelerate the adoption of smart safety features across more affordable vehicles.
Leapmotor’s rapid sales growth and aggressive delivery targets highlight the increasing competitiveness of Chinese EV makers, especially as they bring advanced technology to a broader customer base.
What this means for buyers
Buyers looking for a compact EV with advanced features such as LiDAR now have more options in the budget segment. The A05s will compete directly with models like the BYD Dolphin and Geely Xingyuan, making it important for consumers to compare specifications and pricing as these vehicles become available.
With Leapmotor’s focus on rapid expansion and new technology, prospective buyers should watch for official launch details and regional availability in the coming months.
Key Specs
- Length: 4,200 mm (~165 inches)
- Width: 1,800 mm (~71 inches)
- Height: 1,560 mm (~61 inches)
- Wheelbase: 2,605 mm (~103 inches)
- Motor Output: 70 kW / 90 kW
- Battery Options: 39.8 kWh / 53 kWh LFP
- Range: 405 km (~252 miles) / 510 km (~317 miles)
- Battery Suppliers: Gotion High-tech, Zenergy
Source
Images sourced from: cnevpost.com
