South Africa has a new answer for drivers who want electric-first commuting without planning every long trip around a charger. Leapmotor says orders for its B10 Hybrid EV opened on 18 August 2026, with launch pricing of R499,900 for Style and R549,900 for Design. This is news, not a road test: the details below are drawn from the manufacturer’s launch announcement and Euro NCAP’s published assessment.
The B10’s key distinction is its range-extended electric-vehicle (REEV) layout. Leapmotor says its 1.5-litre petrol engine is a generator only; the electric motor drives the wheels. That makes it materially different from a conventional hybrid, where an engine can also provide mechanical drive. Leapmotor/Stellantis South Africa’s launch release states an 18.8 kWh battery, up to 86 km of electric range and up to 900 km combined range.
Why this launch matters
For an urban owner with access to overnight or workplace charging, the stated electric range could cover many local trips. For a weekend journey or a route where charging is uncertain, the generator can replenish the battery rather than turn the trip into a charging-stop calculation. That is the practical promise of a REEV; it is not the same thing as a guarantee that every driver will achieve the quoted figures. Range and consumption vary with speed, gradients, load, weather, driving style and use of climate control.
Leapmotor also lists a 158 kW electric motor, seven airbags, 17 driver-assistance systems, a 14.6-inch central display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and app functions including charge scheduling and vehicle-status checks. These are manufacturer-supplied specifications, so shoppers should confirm the equipment on the exact South African vehicle and trim on the order form. Read the full South African specification announcement.
Safety: one important qualification
Euro NCAP awarded the B10 a five-star rating in 2025, with published scores of 93% for adult occupant protection, 93% for child occupant protection, 84% for vulnerable road users and 85% for safety assist. Euro NCAP’s B10 assessment identifies the tested model and its listed rating variants as electric B10 versions. Before treating that rating as applying unchanged to the South African Hybrid EV, ask Leapmotor or the dealer to confirm the precise variant and the local specification.
Three questions to ask before placing an order
- What is included in the price? Confirm the current on-the-road price, delivery charges, accessories, finance terms and whether the dealer’s quote still matches the R499,900/R549,900 launch positioning.
- How will you charge at home or work? Ask about compatible equipment, installation requirements and charging times for your electricity supply. The range extender may reduce dependence on public charging, but it does not remove the value of convenient charging where the car is parked.
- What support is local? The launch release says the vehicle comes with a five-year/100,000 km warranty and service plan. Confirm the service interval, roadside assistance, battery coverage, app availability and the nearest authorised workshop in writing. Manufacturer launch details.
The B10 Hybrid EV is worth watching because it offers a distinctly electric driving layout while retaining an on-board range back-up. Its real value for South African buyers will depend less on the headline 900 km claim than on a buyer’s own charging access, regular routes, final specification and local aftersales support.
