Leapmotor's new A05 could be the cheapest LiDAR-equipped EV yet
Leapmotor has filed a new entry-level electric hatchback with China's regulators, slotting below the A10 and packing optional LiDAR on a budget-friendly price point.
Shane Riley
Stellantis-backed Leapmotor is preparing a new small electric hatchback, and it could make advanced driver assistance hardware cheaper than ever. Filed this week with China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the A05 sits below the brand's upcoming A10 and takes direct aim at the BYD Dolphin, MG4, and Cupra Born.
Power comes from a single front-mounted permanent magnet motor in either 70kW or 90kW outputs. The 90kW variant can be optioned with LiDAR, a sensor typically reserved for far more expensive vehicles. Battery chemistry is lithium iron phosphate, though exact capacity hasn't been confirmed.
Key specs at a glance:
- Length/width/height: 4200 x 1800 x 1560mm
- Wheelbase: 2605mm
- Motor output: 70kW or 90kW
- Battery: LFP (capacity TBC)
- LiDAR: Optional on 90kW variant
Size-wise, the A05 lands between something like a Mazda2 and a Mazda3, making it a genuine small-car contender rather than a city runabout.
Australian pricing and availability haven't been confirmed. Leapmotor is already selling the C10 SUV and B10 compact SUV locally, with the B05 crossover next in line for an Aussie launch later this year. A UK release is expected before the end of 2026, which typically signals right-hand-drive markets including Australia are being considered.
Leapmotor has set itself a target of one million global sales in 2026, and the A05 is clearly part of that push, packing more tech at a lower price than most rivals would dare attempt.
If this lands in Australia with LiDAR at a competitive price point, it will raise the bar for what buyers can expect to get in a sub-$40,000 electric hatchback.
