Leapmotor relies on range extenders from ZF

ZF has won its first customer order for its advanced eRE+ range extender technology: Chinese automaker Leapmotor will offer a version of its premium SUV D19 with a range extender from ZF starting in 2026.

In standard range extender operation, i.e., generator mode, a combustion engine drives the electric motor, charges the high-voltage battery and thus extends its range.

The eRE+ technology also offers switchable all-wheel drive via the front axle and, with a drive power of up to 200 kW, provides an additional boost for overtaking manoeuvres.

The Leapmotor D19, a model not yet on sale in Ireland, is the first to use ZF’s advanced range extender technology, known as eRE+. Like the eRE, it is based on an electric motor with an integrated inverter, matching software and planetary gearbox.

While the eRE is designed purely as a power generator, the eRE+ also features an intelligent clutch and differential. This allows it to act as a secondary drive at times.

Thanks to eRE+, car manufacturers can offer switchable all-wheel drive functionality and a boost without having to install separate components or incur additional development costs.

The eRE+ used for the D19 has a generator output of 90 kW and a peak drive output of 200 kW. With ZF eRE+ technology, the SUV achieves a total range of more than 1,000 kilometres.

The combustion engine used is not included in the scope of delivery from ZF.

“Range-extender technology builds a bridge between today’s customer needs and the fully electric future. It makes an important contribution to significantly reducing CO2 emissions and helps models based on pure electric platforms achieve greater acceptance and market penetration,” said Mathias Miedreich, CEO of ZF.