Leapmotor delivered 81,569 vehicles globally in May 2026, setting a new all-time monthly record for the second consecutive month. The 81% year-over-year increase cements the Stellantis-backed Chinese EV maker’s status as one of the fastest-growing NEV brands in the world, according to a Stellantis press release and CnEVPost data.
Why It Matters
Leapmotor has transformed from a budget EV underdog into one of China’s most formidable NEV startups. May’s 81,569 deliveries represent an 81% surge from approximately 45,000 units a year ago, and a 14.3% sequential increase from April’s previous record of about 71,400 units. This trajectory places Leapmotor among the top-tier Chinese NEV brands by volume, outpacing NIO, Li Auto, and XPeng in growth rate.
The Stellantis partnership, a 51:49 joint venture, has been pivotal — providing Leapmotor with access to Stellantis’ European distribution network, manufacturing capacity, and brand credibility in markets where Chinese brands face tariff and perception challenges.
Key Numbers
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| May 2026 deliveries | 81,569 (record) | Stellantis |
| YoY growth | +81% | CnEVPost |
| MoM growth | +14.3% | Electric Vehicles |
Industry Impact
Leapmotor’s success validates the budget-to-premium strategy that many Chinese EV startups have pursued: enter with affordable models, build scale, then move upmarket. The brand’s B10 crossover and C10 midsize SUV have been strong sellers, offering competitive range and features at prices 10-20% below rivals. With its Spanish production line scheduled to begin output through the Stellantis joint venture — producing the B10 and a new Opel-badged SUV — Leapmotor is positioning itself as a major player in the European market while navigating tariff headwinds.
What Comes Next
European production is expected to ramp up soon, providing a critical competitive advantage if EU tariffs on Chinese-built EVs escalate further. The Lafa5 model is also entering new global markets, suggesting Leapmotor’s export-driven growth story is just beginning.
