Opel Could Launch a Chinese SUV with a European Touch: Leapmotor B10 Under Review

Stellantis is reportedly considering building in Spain a Chinese-designed electric SUV under the Opel brand, priced below €30,000.

What if the next Opel had Chinese DNA? That scenario is becoming increasingly plausible, according to Automobilwoche and Automotive News Europe. The reports suggest that Stellantis is evaluating the integration of the Leapmotor B10 into Opel’s lineup. This compact, fully electric SUV—designed in China but potentially produced in Figueruelas (Zaragoza) starting in 2026—falls under the 2023 cooperation agreement between Stellantis and Leapmotor. The deal allows the Franco-Italian group to manufacture and distribute Chinese-made vehicles beyond their domestic market, opening the door to an unprecedented collaboration in the European industry.

Built in Spain, Priced for Accessibility

According to industry sources, Figueruelas is a logical choice. The plant already produces the Opel Corsa and the new Lancia Ypsilon, and has previously assembled models like the Citroën C3 Aircross and the Mokka. This move would enable Stellantis to avoid European tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles, which can reach up to 30%, resulting in a retail price potentially under €30,000. If confirmed, this strategy would allow Opel to offer an affordable, Spain-built electric SUV designed to appeal to a broader audience seeking quality and efficiency.

Modern Design and Advanced Technology

The Leapmotor B10 measures 4.52 meters in length, positioning it between the Opel Frontera and Grandland, both of which offer electric versions. It features a rear-mounted 218 hp electric motor and battery options of 56 or 67 kWh, providing ranges of 360 km and 430 km, respectively. The model is built on a centralized electronic architecture similar to Tesla’s, allowing fast over-the-air updates and enhanced system integration. Inside, the B10 combines simplicity with generous space, offering a practical and comfortable cabin. An extended-range version is also planned, using a petrol engine that works solely as a power generator.

A Strong Contender in the Electric SUV Market

If the project goes ahead, Opel would strengthen its presence in the compact electric SUV segment, directly challenging models like the Volkswagen ID.4, Skoda Elroq, and Kia EV3. Beyond competitive pricing, this new SUV could make electric mobility more accessible to everyday drivers, while maintaining European standards of quality and performance. So far, Opel’s headquarters in Rüsselsheim have stated only that they “do not comment on speculation” about future products—but such discretion might signal that something significant is indeed in the works.

Leapmotor Expands in Europe as Opel Weighs Its Future

Meanwhile, Leapmotor continues to gain traction across Europe. According to Dataforce, the Chinese automaker delivered 16,485 vehicles in the first nine months of 2025, including 11,064 units of the T03, 5,080 of the C10, and 313 of the newly launched B10. While these are modest figures, they underscore a steady upward trend that Stellantis may wish to capitalize on. If the partnership moves forward, Opel’s potential Chinese-born SUV could become a key player in Stellantis’s broader global electrification strategy.