The electrification of the automotive industry has been held back on several occasions over the past 18 months. Tariffs imposed by Europe and the United States have led to a slowdown in demand for electric vehicles in these markets. The price war in China continues to affect the profitability of Chinese manufacturers. Today, changes to regulations within the European Union confirm a reality that no one dared to envisage: electrification is taking longer and is more complex than anticipated. What would be the characteristics of the best electric vehicle at present?
Despite the challenges facing electric cars, last year was the busiest yet in terms of new models launched. This year looks set to be even more dynamic. According to my daily tracking of new passenger cars unveiled worldwide, 97 new all-electric models were launched in 2025. This represents 56% of all passenger cars and light commercial vehicles on display. More than half of the new vehicles unveiled in 2025 were electric. So far this year, up to mid-May, 64 new models have been unveiled, 42 of which are available in a 100% electric version.
My data shows that more than half of the fully electric cars unveiled between January and May 2026 (excluding plug-in hybrids, hybrids and range-extended vehicles) were launched by Chinese manufacturers.
Lots of interesting models
Unlike a few years ago, when Tesla and a few Chinese models topped the rankings of the most interesting electric cars, the situation is very different today.
The rapid catch-up by Western car manufacturers is helping to expand the range of options available. I have selected 20 finalists from the 97 new electric cars unveiled between January 2025 and May 2026: Aito M6, Audi E7X, BMW iX3, Buick Electra L7, BYD Han L, Fang Cheng Bao Tai 3, Firefly, Kia EV2, Leapmotor A10, Lexus ES, Maextro S800, Mazda EZ-60, Nissan N7, Onvo L90, Polestar 5, Renault Twingo, Xiaomi YU7, Toyota Highlander, Volkswagen ID.Polo and Xpeng GX.
Although the selection is largely objective and is not based on any specific test, I have tried to take the following three factors into account:
1. Body type: the likely impact of the new car on global markets due to its body type.
2. Availability: the presence and availability of the new car on international markets worldwide.
3. Competitiveness: the right balance between price and technical specifications.
Based on these criteria, I believe the electric car of the moment is the Leapmotor A10. It is a highly competitive small SUV that has the potential to revolutionise the market, both in developed and emerging countries. It is neither too big nor too small. In terms of design, it is modern and contemporary, with a spacious, high-quality interior. Its price is very attractive without being a bargain, which allows it to compete with the traditional leaders in the B and C SUV segments.
Leapmotor is growing rapidly
Leapmotor is set to become one of the fastest-growing Chinese car manufacturers.
The brand has cleverly positioned itself as an affordable alternative amongst the increasingly popular Chinese high-tech car brands. This shrewd move allows the brand to present itself as a technologically advanced manufacturer offering competitive prices, unlike other high-tech Chinese manufacturers such as Nio, Xpeng, Li Auto or Xiaomi.
Stellantis’s stake in Leapmotor could also prove to be a key factor in its success. Although the European-American manufacturer is going through a difficult period, it has a strong presence in Europe and Latin America, two markets where Chinese brands are keen to expand their business. The Stellantis dealer network has the potential to significantly boost the presence and sales of Leapmotor vehicles, including the A10.
