Leapmotor B05 Ultra, its first electric hot hatch, previewed for 2026 launch
Leapmotor has previewed the upcoming sports variant of the B05 hatchback, B05 Ultra, known in China as the Lafa 5 Ultra, following comments by Senior Vice President Cao Li during a recent media interaction. The Leapmotor B05 made its debut at the 2025 Munich Motor Show.
According to Cao, the Lafa 5 Ultra has undergone extensive development targeting young, performance-minded users. Around 70% of existing blind-order customers are under 35 years old, reflecting the brand’s appeal among younger buyers. He also confirmed that while the standard Lafa 5 will enter the Chinese market by late 2025, the Lafa 5 Ultra is planned for domestic delivery in the first half of 2026, with a gradual international rollout to follow.
Although Leapmotor has not released full technical specifications, the Ultra version features significant exterior upgrades. These include a dedicated aerodynamic package with a reshaped front splitter, larger rear spoiler, and gloss-black trim accents. Both the standard and Ultra models ride on 19-inch alloy wheels. Still, Cao noted that the Sports variant features different styling elements for its front bumper, diffuser, and spoiler, enhancing visual distinction and aerodynamic stability.
The interior remains under wraps, but Cao confirmed the use of extensive suede-like materials to create a “strong sense of performance.” The company intends to reveal the complete cabin design later this year. He added that all aesthetic choices serve functional purposes, emphasising that Leapmotor avoids purely decorative elements in favour of designs that support aerodynamics or driver control.
The Lafa 5 Ultra’s chassis has reportedly been tuned by Stellantis’ European engineering team, with a 50:50 weight distribution aimed at improved cornering stability. Industry observers expect the Ultra to feature a dual-motor all-wheel-drive layout, although this remains unconfirmed.
Built on Leapmotor’s LEAP 3.5 modular platform, the Lafa 5 will join the brand’s lineup as its most dynamic compact EV to date. Once released, it will compete in China’s growing compact hatch segment against models such as the BYD Dolphin, Geely Geome Xingyuan and MG4.
