Stellantis' Chinese Collaborator Created a Minivan That Makes the Pacifica Seem Outdated | Carscoops
Leapmotor’s inaugural electric minivan features one of the largest batteries on the market, competing against rivals with both pure electric and range-extender hybrid options.
The D99 has been introduced in both BEV and range-extender versions, with the EREV boasting an 80.3 kWh battery—the biggest hybrid battery available to date. The BEV version is equipped with a 115 kWh battery, providing a range of 447 miles.
Leapmotor is once again expanding its range, this time venturing into new territory with its first fully electric minivan, the D99. It comes in both battery-electric and range-extender formats, marking Leapmotor’s entry into a market that already includes models such as the Xpeng X9, Zeekr 009, and Li Auto Mega.
Revealed at an event commemorating the company’s 10th anniversary, the D99 features a sleek, flowing design consistent with other Leapmotor models. The front is characterized by a short nose and a windshield that extends past the front axle, providing excellent visibility.
Other design elements include retractable door handles, which are being phased out by Chinese regulators, and darkened B- and C-pillars that visually blend with the side windows. At the rear, a modern LED light bar stretches across the vehicle's width, emphasizing its contemporary aesthetic.
The D99 distinguishes itself from competitors under the hood. Built on an 800V platform, the range-extender variant features a substantial 80.3 kWh battery pack, the largest among hybrids currently available, surpassing Zeekr’s 9X, which utilizes a 70 kWh battery.
It also outmatches the forthcoming range-extended Xpeng X9, expected to have a 63.3 kWh battery upon release. According to Leapmotor, the D99 EREV is projected to achieve an electric driving range of up to 500 kilometers (311 miles) on a full charge.
While specifics regarding the combustion engine for the range-extender remain unconfirmed, it is likely to be a 1.5-liter four-cylinder, akin to the one found in Leapmotor’s C10 REEV.
On the other hand, the fully electric D99 employs a 1000V architecture and is powered by an even larger 115 kWh battery sourced from CATL, claiming a range of 720 kilometers (447 miles).
No interior photos have yet been disclosed, but based on Leapmotor’s recent models, the cabin is anticipated to include high-definition displays and plush seating. It is designed as a vehicle not only for families but also for those who prefer being chauffeured.
More details, such as pricing in China and potential availability outside the domestic market, are expected to be revealed in the upcoming weeks.
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Stellantis' Chinese Collaborator Created a Minivan That Makes the Pacifica Seem Outdated | Carscoops
Leapmotor’s inaugural electric minivan features one of the largest batteries on the market, competing with both fully electric and range-extender hybrid models.
