Stellantis: Is Leapmotor targeting customers from Peugeot and Citroën? The Chinese brand reveals its figures

It’s not easy to thrive within a group with 14 brands… Leapmotor claims that nine out of ten of its international customers would not have purchased a different Stellantis brand. This statement is intended to reassure stakeholders about internal competition, as the Chinese company accelerates with its affordable electric vehicle offerings.

Integrating a Chinese manufacturer with competitive pricing into its sales network carries a risk: that it might draw buyers away from its own brands. For Stellantis, which includes Peugeot, Citroën, Fiat, and Opel, Leapmotor’s development inevitably raises this issue. But the company claims it brings in more new customers than it takes away from its partners.

Ten out of ten new buyers would be a gain

During the international launch of the B03X in Spain, Francesco Giacalone, head of brand strategy, products, and marketing at Leapmotor International, presented an initial analysis of its customer base. According to statements reported by CarExpert, around 90% of international buyers would not have chosen any Stellantis brand “if Leapmotor had not been offered.”

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The executive mentioned that approximately 150,000 units sold have allowed them to begin analyzing these trends. The brand specifically reported 105,000 vehicles sold overseas in the first eight months of 2026, compared to 47,500 for the entire year of 2025.

The significance extends beyond mere coexistence in dealerships. Stellantis holds about 21% of the Chinese manufacturer and controls 51% of Leapmotor International, the joint venture responsible for its development outside China. Attracting drivers who were previously unattainable would thus give purpose to this investment.

Younger customers, sometimes from the used car market

Leapmotor also describes its buyers as being, on average, eight to nine years younger than those of established automotive brands. Less concerned with brand prestige, they prioritize features and technologies that fit within their budget.

Some would even consider a used car before opting for a new Leapmotor. Yet another advantage for the Chinese brand!

Yes, but...

But be cautious—this is a profile created by the company itself. We don’t know the methodology of the study, the actual size of the sample surveyed, or the results by country. It’s impossible to apply this 90% rate automatically to the French market.

These initial indications also do not resolve the long-term issue. As Leapmotor expands its lineup, comparisons with Peugeot, Citroën, or Opel will increase. For Stellantis, the real test will be retaining this additional customer base without undermining sales of its established brands.