08:24 25-04-2026

Leapmotor B05 Ultra brings a sportier edge to China’s electric hatchback market

Leapmotor launched the B05 Ultra in China directly at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show. This is not simply another trim level of the regular B05, but a more emotional version focused on dynamics and visual sportiness. Compared with the standard hatchback, the model gets more aggressive bumpers, larger air intakes, deeper side skirts, a roof spoiler and 19-inch wheels.

The photos make it clear that the B05 Ultra looks noticeably sharper than the standard car, with black accents along the lower body, a sportier front bumper and a more planted stance. For SPEEDME journalists, the car is interesting precisely because it shows how quickly Chinese cars are moving away from the image of rational transport toward accessible, emotional electric vehicles.

The Leapmotor B05 Ultra is based on a fully electric powertrain with a single motor on the rear axle. The electric motor produces 180 kW, or 241 hp, and 255 Nm of torque. For a compact hatchback measuring 4,490 mm in length, that is enough for a 0–100 km/h time of 5.9 seconds, although top speed is limited to 170 km/h.

Buyers are offered two versions. The entry model gets a 56.2 kWh LFP battery and a range of up to 500 km on the CLTC cycle. The higher version uses a 67.1 kWh battery and can cover up to 600 km. The Ultra differs from the regular B05 not only through its motor and appearance, but also through retuned suspension, 50:50 weight distribution and a sportier seating position. Inside, it uses dark trim with synthetic suede, sports front seats, ventilation, massage and a heated steering wheel.

In China, the Leapmotor B05 Ultra costs from 123,800 to 129,800 yuan, while temporary discounts can bring the price down to 118,800 yuan. Against the regular B05, which starts at 97,800 yuan, the Ultra looks like an image-led upgrade: it is more expensive, but offers bolder design, stronger performance and expanded equipment.

In positioning, the model sits between mainstream electric hatchbacks and more expensive sporty EVs. Its closest reference points are the BYD Dolphin, MG4 EV, Smart #1 and compact versions of the Volkswagen ID.3, but Leapmotor is betting on the combination of price, range and performance. For Russian readers, the car is also important because it shows the direction of China’s auto industry: the electric car is no longer just economical transport, but is becoming an alternative to familiar hot hatchbacks.

The Leapmotor B05 Ultra is interesting not only for its numbers, although 600 km of range and 5.9 seconds to 100 km/h in a car cheaper than many petrol crossovers already sound convincing. The main point is different: the Chinese market has begun producing affordable electric cars with character at scale. If such models reach export markets, the traditional idea of an inexpensive sporty car could change quickly.