Leapmotor Plans October Start for Mass Production at New Spain Assembly Project
Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Leapmotor has announced plans to begin mass production at a new assembly project in Spain starting in October, marking another step in the company’s global expansion strategy. The Beijing based automaker confirmed the timeline in its latest earnings statement, highlighting the importance of international production as Chinese EV brands seek greater access to overseas markets. The project is being developed as part of Leapmotor’s partnership with global automotive group Stellantis, which has become a strategic shareholder and collaborator as the company accelerates its push into Europe and other regions.
The Spanish assembly project represents a key milestone for Leapmotor’s international ambitions. By producing vehicles closer to European markets, the company aims to reduce logistics costs and improve delivery times while navigating evolving trade policies affecting imported vehicles. Executives say the facility will help strengthen Leapmotor’s presence across the region as demand for electric vehicles continues to grow. European markets have become increasingly important for Chinese EV manufacturers looking to diversify revenue streams and compete with established global brands in the transition toward electrified transportation.
Leapmotor’s collaboration with Stellantis has played a central role in its overseas expansion plans. The two companies established a joint venture aimed at accelerating global sales and distribution for Leapmotor vehicles. Stellantis, which owns brands including Peugeot, Fiat and Jeep, brings extensive manufacturing expertise and a large international dealer network. The partnership allows Leapmotor to leverage existing infrastructure and industry experience while expanding its technological footprint in electric mobility. Company representatives say several joint projects between the two firms are currently in advanced stages of negotiation.
The Chinese automaker has also reported significant financial improvement over the past year as it strengthens its position in the competitive EV sector. Leapmotor recorded a net profit of 540 million yuan in 2025, equivalent to about 78 million US dollars, compared with a loss of 2.82 billion yuan the previous year. The turnaround reflects stronger vehicle sales, improved cost management and expanding production capacity. Analysts say the company’s move toward profitability highlights how some Chinese EV makers are stabilizing their operations after years of heavy investment in research and development.
Industry observers note that international manufacturing projects are becoming increasingly important for Chinese electric vehicle companies seeking long term growth. Domestic competition in China’s EV market has intensified as dozens of brands compete for consumer demand. Establishing production bases overseas allows companies to broaden their market reach and adapt vehicles to local regulations and consumer preferences. European governments have also encouraged local assembly to support employment and strengthen supply chains linked to the growing electric vehicle industry.
Leapmotor’s planned production start in Spain is therefore seen as part of a broader shift in the global automotive landscape. As Chinese EV manufacturers expand beyond their domestic market, partnerships with established international automakers are helping accelerate entry into new regions. With the October production target approaching, industry analysts will be watching closely to see how the joint venture with Stellantis develops and how the company positions its vehicles within Europe’s rapidly evolving electric mobility market.
