Leapmotor accelerates towards the "Million Club": Historical record in April 2026 and a discreet but impactful offensive in Romania

While some traditional automakers are still recalibrating their strategies for the electric age, Leapmotor has just proven that “startups” can play in the big leagues. April 2026 marked a turning point for the Chinese manufacturer, which recorded its best monthly performance in its history, solidifying its leadership position among new players in the electric vehicle (EV) market.

Record Performance: April in Figures

The recently released results show growth that would make any sales department pop the champagne. Leapmotor delivered 71,387 vehicles globally in April, a figure that includes both the domestic Chinese market and booming exports.

• Annual growth (YoY): +73.95% compared to April 2025.
• Monthly growth (MoM): +42.69% compared to March 2026.
• Total January – April: 181,542 units (+41.18% compared to the previous year).

This traction propelled the company to first place in the top EV startups for the period since the beginning of the year, surpassing competitors that, until recently, seemed untouchable.

Strategy to 1 Million: 4 New Models

The secret behind this explosion of deliveries is not just luck, but a rapidly growing production capacity and an aggressively diversifying product range. After ending 2025 with almost 600,000 cars sold, the goal for 2026 is one: one million units.

To reach this psychological milestone, Leapmotor is counting on launching four new models this year (including the flagship D19 and the new B10), which should represent approximately 60% of the brand's total sales in the near future.

The close collaboration with the giant Stellantis through the Leapmotor International joint venture gives the company access to a global logistics and service infrastructure, essential for success outside of China.

Leapmotor in Romania: Electric Pragmatism

In Romania, Leapmotor's presence became much more visible in 2026, taking advantage of the Stellantis distribution network (through local partners such as AutoItalia). Unlike other Chinese brands that focus on luxury, Leapmotor attacked the local market with a pragmatism that seems to resonate with the Romanian public.

Models and Prices on the Local Market

1. Leapmotor T03: Urban "Star". It is one of the most affordable electric vehicles in Romania. In the spring of 2026, the T03 model (with a WLTP range of approximately 265 km) is offered at prices starting from approximately EUR 16,335 (VAT included), becoming a formidable competitor for the Dacia Spring.
2. Leapmotor C10: A mid-size SUV equipped with advanced technology, priced around €37,000 - €38,000. It appeals to customers who want a spacious family vehicle, but at a significantly lower price than European or American competitors.

Why is it catching on in Romania? The brand's success in our country is fueled by two directions:

• Immediate availability: While other brands have long delivery times, Leapmotor's large production capacity ensures constant stocks.
• Warranty and Service: The partnership with Stellantis eliminates the main fear of Romanians regarding Chinese cars: "Where do I fix it?" The established service network offers a security that other startups cannot guarantee.

Conclusions

If 2025 was the year of confirmation, 2026 promises to be the year of dominance for Leapmotor. With a foot firmly planted in the European market and a meteoric growth in sales, the brand is no longer just a "curiosity" from the Orient, but a player dictating the pace of affordable electrification, including on the roads of Romania.

Do you think that the low price of the T03 model will succeed in dethroning the Dacia Spring from Romanians' preferences this year?