Leapmotor has launched a compact electric hatchback in Paris, taking aim at the Volkswagen ID. Polo, MG4 and BYD Dolphin.

The Leapmotor B03 is 4,175mm long, with a 2,605mm wheelbase, offering surprising interior space and flexibility. Like the Honda Jazz, the rear seat cushions can be lifted upwards to create a space for carrying tall items, while the luggage capacity ranges from 405 litres with the rear seats in place to 1,305 litres to roof height with the seats folded flat.

Powered by a 194hp electric motor, the B03 has a 53kWh battery offering a range of up to 242 miles on the WLTP combined cycle. A heat pump is standard, which reduces the impact of using the heating and ventilation controls on the car’s range.

The car will reach 62mph from zero in 7.6 seconds, while maximum speed is limited to 101mph. Three driving modes are standard with ‘normal’ as the default setting, ‘comfort’ for maximising energy recuperation and range, and ‘sport’ for sharper responses.

There is a single specification, which, as well as the now mandatory ADAS features, also has automatic lane-changing assistance, front vehicle departure warning, adaptive cruise control, front and rear collision warnings, plus an alert for approaching pedestrians and cyclists when opening doors after parking. Safety systems also include electronic stability control and anti-rollover mitigation.

The interior has a 14.6-inch central touchscreen display with an 8.8-inch driver information panel straight ahead.

Every car comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, a 360-degree parking camera, automatic air-conditioning, automatic LED exterior lights, automatic wipers and electrically operated heated and folding exterior mirrors.

The driver’s seat features six-way power adjustment, while both front seats and the steering wheel are heated.

Prices will be confirmed closer to the car’s release date in the UK in 2027, but are expected to be around £25,000.