A new vehicle brand from China enters the Ecuadorian market, it is Leapmotor, a company specialized in electric vehicles that comes to Ecuador with two models from its portfolio: the T03 – the latest generation of compact cars – and the C11 – a premium D -segment SUV- which were exhibited on Wednesday, October 18 at a launch event in Quito.

These new models add to the list of Chinese brands sold in Ecuador, and until last May, according to the Ecuadorian Automobile Companies Association (Aeade), they were 52 of the 107 brands available on the market, or 48.6%. From that month until today, other Chinese brands have continued to enter the market such as BYD, while other firms such as Omoda, one of the new brands associated with Chery Holding, have announced their entry into the country for the first quarter of 2024.

Omoda plans to arrive in Ecuador in 2024 and will compete in the SUV segment

In total, with brands of all origins, the light vehicle segment alone currently has 377 models, 112% more than in 2016, when 178 were available in that category, according to Aeada data. In addition, from this Thursday, October 19, to next Sunday, the 22nd, 40 new models, including some Chinese brands, are scheduled to be launched at the AutoMundo 2023 auto show in Quito.

Meanwhile, Leapmotors, founded in 2015, is imported and distributed in Ecuador by Autofenix, a company with more than 22 years of experience in the local automotive market. In addition to manufacturing vehicles, Leapmotor has distinguished itself as a provider of technological solutions for electric mobility, attracting the interest of major automotive groups such as Volkswagen.

Its T03 and C11 models have been available in Ecuador since September 15, with island-style outlets in the main shopping centers of Quito, followed by the opening of the main store in Cumbayá. The brand has plans to expand to other cities in the country in the near future. As for pricing, the two models will get special introductory treatment: the T03 will be available for $21,990 and the C11 will be available for $42,990.

For Arturo Cárdenas, CEO of Autofenix, Ecuador represents a strategic market for Leapmotor due to its economic growth and focus on sustainable electric mobility. “For this reason, we decided to represent the brand and import its most famous models as one of the best options for customers who want to optimize their investment in mobility while contributing to environmental care,” Cárdenas commented during the launch.

What Cárdenas said is backed up by sectoral figures. According to Aeade’s latest report, 1,091 electrified vehicles were sold in September, compared to 581 in the same month in 2022. This “represents a historical sales record for this type of technology,” the union noted. So far in 2023, from January to September, 8,364 electrified vehicles (hybrid and electric) have been sold, which puts them at an 8% share in total sales.

New vehicle sales down 12% in Q3 2023, growing demand for hybrids, electric vehicles and motorcycles

Meanwhile, returning to the Leapmotors, the C11’s interior offers a cluster of three monitors, including a vehicle performance information display, a 12.8″ multimedia touchscreen for entertainment and control; and a third optional 10.22″ multimedia display. for the passenger.

The T03 offers a central screen that controls all vehicle functions, replacing traditional buttons. It has a permanent magnet synchronous motor that generates 80 kW (107 hp) and a torque of 158 NM, which allows it to reach a maximum speed of 140 km/h and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 10 seconds. The lithium-ion battery provides a range of up to 300 kilometers on a single charge.

The T03 model has a permanent magnet synchronous motor that generates 80 kW (107 hp) and a torque of 158 NM, which allows it to reach a maximum speed of 140 km/h and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 10 seconds. The lithium-ion battery provides a range of up to 300 kilometers on a single charge. Photo: Courtesy of Leapmotors

The C11 is more powerful with an engine of 225 kW (302 hp) and a torque of 360 NM. It reaches a maximum speed of 180 km/h, and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 7.5 seconds. It is equipped with a 70 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery that offers an impressive range of up to 500 kilometers.

In terms of safety, the C11 features the Leap Pilot™ intelligent driving system, which uses sensors, radars and 360° cameras to keep the vehicle on course and avoid collisions. In addition, this car includes facial recognition technology to personalize driving preferences and facilitate access to the vehicle.