Leapmotor’s Lafarge 5 Premium Hatchback Pre-Sales Begin with LiDAR Integration

EV Tech Leapmotor

10th November 2025, Kathmandu

The electric vehicle (EV) market continues its aggressive pace of technological innovation, particularly from Chinese startups.

EV Tech Leapmotor

Leapmotor, an emerging Chinese automobile brand, has commenced pre-sales for its first premium hatchback, the Lafarge 5. This launch is highly significant for the future of smart mobility.

Crucially, the vehicle introduces advanced sensor technology, making the EV Tech Leapmotor model a benchmark for its segment. The company has initiated booking for five different variants of the Lafarge 5 in the Chinese market.

Leapmotor has set the preliminary price for the most affordable variant, the 515 Plus, at RMB 105,800 (approximately USD 14,858).

The other variants—the 515 Pro, 515 Max, 605 Pro, and 605 Max—are priced at RMB 115,800, RMB 125,800, RMB 121,800, and RMB 131,800, respectively.

The official sales are scheduled to start on November 28, with expectations that the final prices may see a slight reduction. The top-tier Ultra variant is slated for sale starting in 2026.

Advanced Architecture and Autonomous Readiness

The Lafarge 5 shares its foundational technology with the company’s B-10 model, utilizing the advanced ‘Leap 3.5 Modular Architecture.’ This platform, internally designated with the production code B-05, is designed for flexibility and integration of sophisticated electronics.

The adoption of a proprietary modular architecture highlights the startup’s commitment to controlling the core technology stack, a vital characteristic of the modern EV Tech Leapmotor ecosystem.

A standout feature that elevates the Lafarge 5 beyond a typical hatchback is the inclusion of LiDAR technology on its roof. Historically, this expensive sensor has been reserved for high-end luxury vehicles or specialized autonomous prototypes.

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Leapmotor’s decision to integrate LiDAR into a car in this price range challenges the market status quo. LiDAR provides highly accurate 3D mapping of the surrounding environment, significantly enhancing the car’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) capabilities.

The company is also utilizing an extensive array of cameras and additional sensors to complement the LiDAR system, pushing the boundaries of semi-autonomous driving features in the compact segment.

Design and Performance Specifications

The premium hatchback maintains Leapmotor’s distinct design language. It features stylish curved LED headlights, retracting door handles for better aerodynamics, a sporty roof spoiler, and a single taillight unit across the rear.

The dimensions place it firmly in the compact sedan/hatchback crossover space: 4,430 mm in length, 1,880 mm in width, and 1,520 mm in height, riding on a 2,735 mm wheelbase.

In terms of performance, the Lafarge 5 offers two options based on Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery packs: 56.2 kWh and 67.1 kWh capacities. These batteries deliver CLTP-certified ranges of 515 kilometers and 605 kilometers, respectively.

• Fast Charging: The charging efficiency is notable, allowing the car to replenish its battery from 30% to 80% in a rapid 18 to 19 minutes using a fast charger.
• Motor Options: The entry-level variant uses a 132 kW electric motor, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in 8.7 seconds. The remaining four higher-tier variants feature a more powerful 160 kW motor, cutting the 0-100 km/h acceleration time down to a swift 6.5 seconds.

Global Expansion and Local Footprint

Leapmotor has successfully carved a niche for itself by producing reasonably priced cars and SUVs. Its reputation for value-driven EV Tech Leapmotor products is gaining momentum globally.

The brand is currently receiving significant international attention, especially in Europe, following a major investment from the Stellantis Group. This partnership signals a robust plan for European expansion and validation of Leapmotor’s technology.

In the local market, Shangrila Motors is the authorized distributor for Leapmotor in Nepal. The distributor has already introduced three models, including the entry-level T-03 and the top-end C-10 SUV. The B-10 SUV is also currently accepting bookings, with deliveries set to commence soon.

The introduction of the Lafarge 5, with its advanced features, is highly anticipated to further energize the local EV landscape and broaden the appeal of smart, digitally integrated vehicles.

For more: EV Tech Leapmotor