Leapmotor B03X Set for Malaysian Debut in First Half of 2027

Stellantis is set to expand its local production footprint in Gurun with the introduction of the Leapmotor B03X electric B-SUV by the first half of 2027.

Following the local assembly of the B10 and C10 models, the Leapmotor B03X—known as the A10 in its home market—is slated to become the third vehicle to roll off the production line at the Stellantis plant in Gurun, Kedah. According to the original publisher, this launch is currently subject to ongoing negotiations between the manufacturer and the Malaysian government regarding compliance and pricing strategies for the affordable EV segment.

The strategy to locally assemble the B03X is a tactical necessity rather than a preference. Under current Malaysian regulations introduced earlier this year, imported EVs are required to meet a minimum power output of 180 kW (245 PS) and carry a minimum Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value of RM200,000. Because the B03X fails to meet these specific thresholds, bringing the model in as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) unit from China is no longer a viable pathway for the brand.

For the Malaysian market, the B03X will mirror the specifications found in the international version currently sold in Europe, rather than the domestic Chinese A10 variant. These international units will feature two lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery options supplied by Gotion, starting with a 39.8 kWh unit. While the full range of specifications remains under wraps, the focus remains on delivering a competitive entry-level EV product.

For Malaysian consumers, the shift toward local assembly (CKD) serves as a hedge against the volatility of import duties and tax schemes. Stellantis ASEAN managing director Isaac Yeo previously noted that having a fully amortised plant in Gurun provides the company with significant leverage, potentially allowing them to maintain stable pricing even if current government tax incentives for EVs are eventually phased out. For a buyer watching the segment, this suggests that the B03X could remain attractively priced compared to newer market entrants who lack established local infrastructure.

Beyond the retail price, the expansion of the Gurun plant signals a continued commitment to the Malaysian automotive ecosystem, which may offer a degree of stability for local industry stakeholders and supply chain partners. With the national unemployment rate holding steady at 3.0% and the economy showing a healthy real GDP growth of 6.0% in the latest quarter, the introduction of a more affordable EV could help broaden the adoption of green technology among middle-income earners who are currently deterred by the higher price floor of luxury-segment electric vehicles.

This development arrives at a time when the broader automotive landscape is shifting under the pressure of fluctuating fuel costs. With unsubsidized fuel prices now reaching RM4.02 for RON95 and RM4.92 for diesel, the total cost of ownership for internal combustion engine vehicles is becoming an increasingly heavy burden for the average household. A mass-market CKD EV like the B03X provides a necessary alternative, provided the final retail price can successfully navigate the complexities of local policy and manufacturing costs.

Looking ahead, industry observers will be monitoring the upcoming negotiations between Stellantis and the government. These discussions are critical, as the B03X is positioned as an affordable offering rather than a premium one, meaning it relies heavily on favourable tax structures to remain commercially viable.

Whether the B03X will feature additional performance variants or specific range upgrades beyond what is currently sold in Europe remains unconfirmed. Until the official launch date approaches, the exact trim levels and final price brackets for the Malaysian market will remain undisclosed.