Leapmotor D16 with Dual Qualcomm Snapdragon Chips Priced Around $42,100, Report Suggests

The Leapmotor D16, part of the brand's ambitious D series, is garnering attention as official images circulate widely across Chinese social media platforms. The D series is expected to feature two models, a full-size MPV and a full-size SUV, with the D16 anticipated to hit mass production by the first quarter of 2026 and deliveries starting in the first half of the same year. The D16, also rumored to be named the D19, was recently spotted in China, further fueling public interest.

Zhu Jiangming, the founder of Leapmotor, has previously outlined the company’s strategy to roll out four series—A, B, C, and D—over the next three years, covering a broad market range from $8,400 to $42,100. The D series, positioned as a luxury offering at an affordable price, will feature models priced between $28,100 and $42,100. Leapmotor's Senior Vice President Cao Li highlighted the D series SUV as the brand’s first flagship model to reach the top price bracket, having successfully completed rigorous summer testing in Turpan, China.

A standout feature of the D16 is its integration of dual Qualcomm Snapdragon 8797 chipsets, one dedicated to the intelligent cockpit and the other to advanced driving assistance systems. This technological advancement is expected to enhance the vehicle's performance in terms of user interface and autonomous driving capabilities. Leapmotor is poised to showcase these innovations at an upcoming technology conference on October 16, where the D16 is likely to be officially unveiled.

In recent months, Leapmotor has seen its cumulative delivery volume skyrocket, surpassing 900,000 units by August, a significant increase from 800,000 units just two months prior. This surge has prompted the company to revise its 2025 sales target to between 580,000 and 650,000 units, with aspirations to reach one million units in the following year. This growth underscores Leapmotor’s expanding footprint in the global EV market and its commitment to innovation and market penetration.

The strategic partnership with Stellantis has further bolstered Leapmotor's position, allowing it to leverage global resources and expertise. This collaboration is not only expected to aid Leapmotor in scaling its production capabilities but also in enhancing the technological sophistication of its vehicles. The global debut of the Leapmotor Lafa 5 at the IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich further illustrates the brand’s international ambitions and its readiness to compete on a global stage.

Looking ahead, the Leapmotor D16 represents a significant step forward for the company and the EV industry at large. By combining cutting-edge technology with competitive pricing, Leapmotor is positioned to capture a significant share of the market. As the world moves towards sustainable transportation solutions, Leapmotor's initiatives could signal a new era of accessible and advanced electric vehicles, potentially reshaping consumer expectations worldwide.