Leapmotor B05 launched in Hong Kong, could Malaysia be next?

Leapmotor has officially introduced the new B05 EV hatchback in Hong Kong, marking one of the brand’s first major right-hand-drive (RHD) electric hatchbacks launched outside Mainland China. Priced from an estimated HKD 249,900 (Price equivalent to RM 130,000), the Leapmotor B05 enters the market as an affordable compact EV with a sporty design and urban-friendly proportions.

What Is the Leapmotor B05?

The Leapmotor B05 is a compact EV hatchback designed to compete with popular models such as the MG4 EV. Built on Leapmotor’s latest LEAP 3.5 platform, it features a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) layout and a sleek fastback-inspired design.

Inside, the cabin follows a minimalist EV design with a large central infotainment touchscreen paired with a digital instrument cluster, creating a fully digital cockpit experience. The system supports smart connectivity features such as OTA updates, smartphone integration, and in-car controls via the central display. It also offers ADAS features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.

It uses a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery with capacity of 67.1 kWh, offering around 482 km of range under the CLTC cycle. Charging support includes DC fast charging (30%-80% in 17 minutes) and AC charging with its 11 kW onboard charger. The model also featured a balanced 50:50 weight distribution.

On the exterior, the Leapmotor B05 comes with 19-inch alloy wheels, full LED lighting with a connected rear light bar, and a panoramic sunroof. Inside, it features a 14.6-inch infotainment display, 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, 12 speaker Leap sound-branded audio system, multiple USB ports, automatic climate control, and wireless charging.

Safety equipment includes a full suite of ADAS features, such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR). It also comes with a 360-degree camera system, parking sensors, and driver monitoring features. 

In China, the model is known as the Lafa 5, but in overseas markets it is marketed as the Leapmotor B05. The B05 name is already being used across Europe as part of Leapmotor’s international expansion strategy.

Why Is The Hong Kong Launch Important?

The biggest reason is simple: right-hand drive (RHD). Many Chinese EVs are first introduced in left-hand-drive (LHD) form for the Chinese domestic market before being adapted for export.

The Hong Kong launch indicates that Leapmotor has already developed a RHD version of the B05, thus indicating at the possibility of the B05 entering other RHD markets such as Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, and Singapore in the future.

Could The Leapmotor B05 Come To Malaysia?

At the moment, Leapmotor Malaysia has not announced any plans to introduce the B05 locally. However, there are several reasons why it could be a realistic possibility.

Leapmotor is already actively expanding its presence in Malaysia. The Leapmotor C10 has already been introduced locally and is currently locally-assembled (CKD), with prices starting at RM 149,005 (on the road without insurance). In addition, the smaller Leapmotor B10 is also expected to be locally assembled later this year, with current pricing in Malaysia starting from RM 108,680 (on the road without insurance).