Opel prepares electric SUV for Europe using Leapmotor B10 technology
Opel hinted at a new electric C segment SUV for Europe, with its technical base set to come from China’s Leapmotor. Stellantis is considering production at its Zaragoza plant in Spain from 2028, although the official wording still leaves the final manufacturing decision open.
German badge, Chinese engineering
The future Opel electric SUV will be based largely on the Leapmotor B10, which already reached the European market. The first teaser shows a crossover with short overhangs, large wheels and a front end shaped around Opel’s own design language. The German brand’s input should focus mainly on styling, chassis tuning, seats, lighting and physical buttons inside the cabin.
In other words, Opel is not building this model from scratch. Stellantis will use Leapmotor’s architecture and components to bring a more affordable electric SUV to market more quickly. The company’s official statement puts particular emphasis on lower costs and shorter development time.
Zaragoza takes on a bigger role
Stellantis and Leapmotor are considering a new production line at the Zaragoza Figueruelas plant, where the Peugeot 208 and Lancia Ypsilon are already built. Under the same plan, Leapmotor B10 production there could begin as early as 2026, with Opel’s new electric C segment SUV potentially following in 2028.
Leapmotor B10 provides the starting point
The Leapmotor B10 is an electric crossover measuring a little over 4.5 metres in length. In European specification, it offers 160 kW, equal to 218 PS, a battery of up to 67.1 kWh and a WLTP range of up to 434 kilometres. The future Opel should differ from the B10 by only a few millimetres in size.
Stellantis bought around 21 percent of Leapmotor in 2023, while their joint venture, Leapmotor International, is 51 percent owned by Stellantis. That arrangement gives the European group access to the cost structure of Chinese electric cars, while keeping the German badge and the promise of European production in place.
Opel chooses the pragmatic route
The new model shows how European car makers are adjusting to pressure from China. Opel is not trying to develop every component in house. Instead, it is taking ready made technology from a partner and adding its own design, driving feel and brand identity.
For buyers, that could mean a more affordable electric SUV wearing a familiar European badge. For Opel, it is also a test of perception. Will customers see clever cooperation, or simply a Chinese car in German clothes?
