Your next car deal could come with an AI upgrade you’ll appreciate
Artificial Intelligence (AI) can play a vital role for customers to make the right choice when hunting for a pre-owned vehicle.
- Industry News
- 5 November 2026
Leapmotor has launched the Leapmotor App in South Africa, giving C10 REEV customers seamless smartphone-based access to their vehicle and connected services.
Following the brand’s local debut in 2025, the introduction of the app further strengthens the connected ownership experience in South Africa, reinforcing its focus on intuitive, digitally integrated mobility, the Chinese manufacturer claims.
The C10 REEV is a family-sized SUV that drives exclusively in electric mode, with a 1.5-litre petrol engine acting as a generator to extend range. It delivers up to 145km of pure electric driving and up to 970km of total combined range under local driving conditions. Power is supplied by a rear-mounted electric motor producing 158kW and 320Nm, paired with a 28.4kWh lithium iron phosphate battery.
The app enables owners to unlock and access their vehicles using their smartphones. For customers who want to integrate their vehicles seamlessly into their digital routines, the app also provides remote vehicle status information, charging updates, and notifications, depending on configuration. The main registered owner can add up to eight additional profiles and restrict their access to specific app features if required.
The app replaces the need for the key card for access; however, the key card is still required to start the vehicle. Alternatively, the vehicle can be started by entering the security code without the card.
“The launch of the app marks an important step in delivering a fully connected ownership experience in South Africa,” says Janus Janse van Rensburg, Head of Marketing and Sales for Leapmotor at Stellantis South Africa. “Digital convenience is increasingly important to customers, and this platform ensures C10 REEV owners can manage and access their vehicles with confidence and ease.”
Customers are enrolled at vehicle handover, with their details captured securely by the dealer to enable activation. After downloading and verifying their account, owners complete pairing by scanning a QR code displayed on the vehicle’s central screen. A personal PIN safeguards both app-based remote functions and vehicle access.
More information is available at www.leapmotor.net/za
Artificial Intelligence (AI) can play a vital role for customers to make the right choice when hunting for a pre-owned vehicle.
The South African motor industry has lost one of its longstanding business figures following the passing of Jebb McIntosh, the group chief executive of Combined Motor Holdings (CMH), on Monday, 2 November 2026.
“South Africa’s automotive industry has been AGOA’s largest user, but for the sector the preference has already been largely overridden by the 25% Section 232 tariffs applied on vehicles and components. Losing AGOA adds a further cost to an industry that has already absorbed a significant shock.”
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