The Leapmotor C16 1.5L 38.7 (231 Hp) EREV is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) SUV introduced by the Chinese manufacturer Leapmotor in June 2025. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the C16 lineup, it combines a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor and a substantial battery pack to deliver both all-electric range and extended overall driving distance. The C16 represents Leapmotor’s entry into the competitive SUV market, aiming to provide a technologically advanced and efficient vehicle for consumers seeking a blend of electric and internal combustion power.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Leapmotor |
| Model | C16 |
| Generation | C16 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5L 38.7 (231 Hp) EREV 5 Seat |
| Start of production | June, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (CLTC) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI-B |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 149.2 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 38.7 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (CLTC) | 280 km (173.98 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 231 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 231 Hp |
| System torque | 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H15R |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 2145 kg (4728.92 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 687 l (24.26 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1663 l (58.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4915 mm (193.5 in.) |
| Width | 1905 mm (75 in.) |
| Height | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2825 mm (111.22 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 205 mm (8.07 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the generator only, with no mechanical connection to the drive. An electric motor drives the rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/45 R21Rear wheel tires: 255/45 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 21Rear wheel rims: 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Leapmotor C16 1.5L EREV utilizes a series hybrid powertrain. The core of the system is the H15R 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder naturally aspirated engine. This engine, producing approximately 110 horsepower, doesn’t directly power the wheels. Instead, it functions as a generator, charging the 38.7 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery pack. The electric motor, located on the rear axle, delivers 231 horsepower and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque, providing the primary motive force. The single-speed automatic transmission efficiently delivers power to the rear wheels. The use of a LiFePO4 battery is notable for its improved thermal stability and longer lifespan compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries, though it typically offers slightly lower energy density. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection, optimizing combustion efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The C16 1.5L EREV offers a unique driving experience. In most situations, the vehicle operates solely on electric power, providing near-silent acceleration and instant torque. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a balanced feel, although it may require some adjustment for drivers accustomed to front-wheel-drive vehicles. When the battery is depleted or requires additional power during demanding driving conditions, the 1.5-liter engine seamlessly kicks in to act as a generator, maintaining a consistent level of performance. The 0-60 mph time of around 8.2 seconds is respectable for a vehicle of this size and type. Compared to potential higher-output gasoline-only versions of the C16, this EREV variant prioritizes efficiency and smoothness over outright speed. The single-speed transmission simplifies the driving experience, eliminating gear changes and providing a linear power delivery.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C16 1.5L EREV comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features. Interior appointments typically include comfortable cloth or synthetic leather upholstery, a modern dashboard layout with a large touchscreen infotainment system, and automatic climate control. Standard safety features include ABS, electronic stability control, and a suite of airbags. Optional extras may include a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, and upgraded interior trim materials. The specific trim level dictates the availability of these optional features.
Chassis & Braking
The C16 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, providing a comfortable ride and responsive handling. Ventilated disc brakes are employed on all four wheels, ensuring adequate stopping power. The electric power steering system offers precise and effortless steering control. The vehicle’s relatively high curb weight of 2145 kg (4728.92 lbs) is partially offset by the low center of gravity afforded by the battery pack positioned beneath the floor, contributing to improved stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Leapmotor C16 1.5L EREV has been generally well-received in the Chinese market, where it competes with other PHEV SUVs. Critics have praised its efficient powertrain, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Fuel economy is rated at 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg), making it a competitive option in its class. Compared to other C16 trims, the 1.5L EREV offers a balance between fuel efficiency and performance, appealing to buyers who prioritize both. Reliability data is still emerging, but the use of a relatively simple naturally aspirated engine and a robust LiFePO4 battery suggests good long-term durability.
Legacy
The Leapmotor C16 1.5L EREV represents a significant step forward for Leapmotor as a brand, showcasing its ability to develop and produce technologically advanced electric and hybrid vehicles. The powertrain’s combination of a gasoline generator and a large battery pack offers a practical solution for consumers seeking to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels without sacrificing range or convenience. As the used car market matures, the C16 1.5L EREV is expected to hold its value well, particularly among buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and well-equipped SUV.
