Driving one of the new Chinese electric cars today – the Leapmotor C10, a company that started business in 2015, backed by the Stellantis company, the merger of Fiat Chrysler and the French PSA Group. The Leapmotor C10 a mid- sized SUV in two grades, the Style at $47,500, and the Design at $51,500, both driveaway. These prices sharp and below similar sized offerings from other new Chinese brands, as well as the Kia EV 5 and the Tesla model Y. And the price also includes a 12-month subscription to the Charge Fox network. The specification impressive – dual zone climate control, LED headlights, power front seats, a panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charger, 12 speaker sound, a power tailgate, a 14.6-inch touch screen, but no Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – all in a roomy five seat somewhat handsome body with great safety credentials. With one long slot for an air vent and no directional controls the air-conditioning and heating response is poor at best. On face value though, a sharply priced very comfortable family friendly mid-size SUV with a single electric motor with a 69.9kWh battery driving the rear wheels. But how does it drive – a disappointment unfortunately with which I’ll explain next segment. I’m David Berthon.

IMAGE / Leapmotor Australia

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