The Leapmotor T03 is a new contender in the electric city car segment, promising affordability and practicality. With a starting price of around £15,000, it aims to undercut rivals like the Dacia Spring and Fiat 500e. But does it deliver on range, comfort, and driving experience? We spent a week behind the wheel to find out.
Design and Exterior
The T03 features a cute, compact design with rounded headlights and a minimalist front grille. It measures 3.6 meters long, making it ideal for urban parking. The 14-inch steel wheels and simple lines keep costs down, but the overall look is pleasant enough.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the T03 surprises with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The digital instrument cluster is clear, and the seats are comfortable for short journeys. However, rear space is tight, and the boot offers just 210 liters, expandable to 508 liters with the rear seats folded.
Performance and Range
Powered by a 36.5 kWh battery and a 80 hp electric motor, the T03 accelerates modestly, reaching 0-62 mph in 12.5 seconds. The official WLTP range is 165 miles, but in mixed real-world driving, we achieved around 140 miles. Rapid charging at up to 48 kW allows a 30-80% top-up in 30 minutes.
Driving Experience
The T03 feels nimble around town, with light steering and a tight turning circle. It handles potholes reasonably well, though the ride can be firm on bumpy roads. On the motorway, it feels less stable, and the lack of sound deadening makes long trips tiring.
Verdict
The Leapmotor T03 offers impressive value for money, with a decent range and standard equipment. While it has compromises in space, refinement, and motorway ability, it excels as a city runabout. For budget-conscious EV buyers, it's a compelling option.
