Leapmotor Reveals First Images of Its Flagship D99 Minivan
The Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Leapmotor has officially released the first images of its debut minivan, the D99. This model will become one of the brand’s flagship vehicles and a key representative of Leapmotor’s premium D-series. While the interior has not yet been revealed, the exterior images and preliminary technical data already position the D99 as one of the most ambitious electrified minivans developed in China to date.
Leapmotor is widely known for its strategic partnership with Stellantis, and this collaboration has significantly accelerated the brand’s technological progress and global ambitions. The D99 is expected to play a crucial role not only in the domestic Chinese market but also in Leapmotor’s potential expansion into Europe.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
Visually, the Leapmotor D99 follows a modern and restrained premium design language, clearly aimed at the upper end of the minivan segment. The front fascia is dominated by a clean LED lighting signature and a closed-off grille, emphasizing the model’s electrified nature. Smooth body surfaces, flush door handles, and a long, horizontal beltline create a sense of length and visual stability.
In terms of size, the D99 comfortably enters the full-size MPV category. Its overall length exceeds 5.2 meters, while the wheelbase stretches beyond 3.1 meters. Although the manufacturer has not disclosed the exact width and height yet, these figures already indicate a spacious cabin layout with a strong focus on passenger comfort, particularly in the second and third rows.
Such dimensions place the D99 in direct competition with premium hybrid and electric minivans from both Chinese and international brands, including models positioned well above it in price.
Powertrain Strategy and Battery Technology
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Leapmotor D99 is its diverse powertrain lineup. The model will be offered with both extended-range hybrid and fully electric configurations, covering a wide spectrum of customer needs.
The range-extended hybrid version is expected to set a new benchmark for long-distance capability in its class. This version will be equipped with an 80.3 kWh battery pack, which is exceptionally large for a plug-in hybrid minivan. According to Leapmotor, this setup will deliver the longest electric driving range among comparable hybrid MPVs globally, making it particularly attractive for urban use combined with long highway trips.
The fully electric Leapmotor D99 will feature an even larger 115 kWh battery. This variant will also benefit from a cutting-edge 1000-volt electrical architecture, allowing for ultra-fast charging, improved thermal efficiency, and more consistent performance under heavy loads. Such technology is typically associated with premium electric sedans and SUVs rather than family-oriented minivans.
Chassis, Suspension, and Comfort Technologies
Leapmotor has confirmed that the D99 will be equipped with an advanced suspension system. The flagship minivan will feature air suspension combined with adaptive dampers, allowing the vehicle to automatically adjust ride height and stiffness based on driving conditions, speed, and load.
This setup is designed to provide limousine-like comfort in city traffic while maintaining stability and confidence at highway speeds. For a large MPV often used with a full passenger load, adaptive suspension is a major advantage, particularly in markets where long-distance travel is common.
Although interior details remain undisclosed, the presence of such chassis technology strongly suggests a focus on premium ride quality, noise isolation, and overall refinement.
Pricing Philosophy and Market Positioning
Leapmotor has reiterated that the D99 will follow the same pricing strategy already applied to other models in its D-series. The company aims to deliver a level of comfort, technology, and performance comparable to vehicles priced above 500,000 yuan, while keeping the actual retail price within the 250,000 to 300,000 yuan range.
This aggressive value proposition is one of Leapmotor’s key competitive advantages. By combining large battery packs, high-voltage architecture, and premium suspension systems at this price point, the D99 could significantly disrupt the minivan segment, especially in the electrified MPV category.
Future Models and Global Expansion Plans
Alongside the D99 announcement, Leapmotor also confirmed that the flagship D19 crossover, equipped with similar battery technologies, will debut on the Chinese market in April 2026. This indicates a broader rollout of high-capacity batteries and advanced electrical architectures across the brand’s premium lineup.
Previously, Leapmotor hinted that some of its models could be integrated into the portfolios of European brands through rebranding. This strategy, supported by Stellantis, aims to strengthen Leapmotor’s presence in the European Union and accelerate its entry into regulated international markets.
If the D99 follows this path, it could eventually appear in Europe under a different badge, targeting families and corporate clients looking for spacious, high-tech electric or hybrid mobility solutions.
Technical Specifications Overview
The confirmed and expected technical highlights of the Leapmotor D99 include a body length exceeding 5,200 mm, a wheelbase over 3,100 mm, hybrid and fully electric powertrain options, battery capacities of 80.3 kWh and 115 kWh, a 1000-volt electrical architecture for the EV version, air suspension, and adaptive dampers. Full performance figures, interior features, and official range data are expected to be revealed closer to the market launch.
The Leapmotor D99 represents a bold step into the premium minivan segment, combining large dimensions, advanced electrification, and high-end comfort technologies at a relatively accessible price point. While many details are still under wraps, the initial information suggests that the D99 could redefine expectations for what a modern electric or hybrid MPV can offer.
As Leapmotor continues to leverage its partnership with Stellantis and expand its global footprint, the D99 is poised to become a key model in the brand’s international strategy.
