'I was hesitant about getting an electric family car. These 6 things changed my mind.'

Thanks to our brand partner, Leapmotor

Like most parents, I've got a mental checklist of things I really should get around to doing — like finally learning how to fold a fitted sheet, organising meal preps for the week and for the past few years, looking into getting an electric car.

I've wanted to make the switch for all the obvious reasons — better for the planet, cheaper to run and let's be honest, they're very nice to drive. 

But I've also had questions. 

"Could it really keep up with our family's non‑stop schedule?"

"What happens on long road trips?"

"Will I remember to charge it?"

So when the chance to spend a week driving the new Leapmotor C10 REEV Ultra Hybrid came up, I jumped at it. 

Image: Supplied.

I was curious to see whether it could deliver all the perks of electric driving — without the compromises. So, here are my honest thoughts.

1. It's electric… but with a safety net.

The Leapmotor C10 is what's called a REEV Ultra Hybrid. 

In everyday language? It runs on electric power most of the time, but also has a petrol engine that charges the battery while you drive. So even if you completely forget to plug it in (hi, that's me), you can keep going without a single moment of "range anxiety".

That means it has a game-changing 1000 kilometres plus range (NEDC) without needing to re-fuel or re-charge. 

That's Melbourne to Canberra without stopping. 

Or for my reality, a solid month of daycare drop-offs, grocery runs, netball training and spontaneous weekend getaways — all without once thinking, I need to find a charger.

You still get the quiet, smooth drive of an electric vehicle, but with the freedom to go on long road trips or clock up endless city kilometres without interruption. 

2. Space. Glorious space.

I drive around two small humans, one large pram and a weekly grocery haul that costs a small fortune. Space isn't just nice — it's a non-negotiable.

The C10 is a mid-sized SUV with a roomy interior, plenty of legroom for car seats and a flat floor design that makes it feel even more spacious. 

The back seats are roomy and comfortable for actual adults (rare) and the large boot area fits all the family gear without having to play a game of packing Tetris.

Image: Supplied.

3. It feels way more luxe than I expected.

With its sleek design and huge panoramic glass roof, the C10 feels like a premium car the second you hop in.

The seats are plush and supportive — perfect for long drives — and the suspension smooths out bumps and speed humps (even the dreaded ones outside my daughter's school). 

The glass roof brings in loads of natural light too, making the space feel bright and open — and my kids thought it was the coolest thing ever. 

Inside, the modern design feels uncluttered, with smart storage (yep, the drink holder fits a Stanley cup) and finishes you'd expect in a far pricier SUV (hello, heated seats).

There's even a camping mode and nap mode! My favourite is nap mode, which dims the lights, adjusts the seats and sets the perfect temp — ideal for when you've parked at your destination and your little ones are still asleep.

And it's husband‑approved — in his own glowing words: "It's a very comfortable ride."

Image: Supplied.

4. It's premium… but still attainable.

Electric and hybrid SUVs can sometimes feel out of reach price‑wise, but the C10 proves they don't have to be.

Starting from $45,900 driveaway for the Style variant, it offers impressive value when you factor in its size, comfort, technology and driving range.

Then there are the cost‑saving benefits that keep paying off long after you've driven it home: think fewer trips to the petrol station and lower everyday running costs.

For families already balancing busy schedules and budgets, it's not just a nice‑to‑have — it's a genuinely smart investment.

5. The tech is actually helpful (and not just flashy).

Some cars pack in technology for the sake of it. This one feels like it's been designed for actual people, with features you'll use daily.

The touchscreen became my co-pilot — easy to navigate, nice to look at and my phone paired via Bluetooth in seconds — no fiddling, no looking through manuals.

There's also wireless phone charging, multiple USB ports (including for the kids in the back) and a crystal-clear digital driver display.

I tested the voice control by asking for directions to the nearest bakery (vital research), and it nailed it. The 360-degree camera? An actual lifesaver in those chaotic school car parks.

It's also packed with driver‑assist features that make driving less stressful: adaptive cruise control, Lane Keep Assist and Autonomous Emergency Brake — an extra comfort when you've got precious cargo in the back.

Image: Supplied.

6. You're covered for servicing and support.

Leapmotor is backed by Stellantis — one of the world's leading automakers with over 14 global brands under its belt, including Jeep, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Opel and RAM. In other words, they know a thing or two about building cars.

And the local support is there too, with 16 dealers across Australia already and more on the way. Which means if you need servicing or support, you're covered.

After a week with the Leapmotor C10, I realised going electric doesn't have to feel daunting.

This beauty takes away the biggest worry (running out of range) and replaces it with the fun stuff: quiet, smooth driving and fewer fuel stops.

So, would I switch to a hybrid car like this? Absolutely. 

Ready to give it a go? To test drive the Leapmotor C10 Ultra Hybrid, head to their website.

Feature Image: Supplied.

Founded in 2015, Leapmotor is a pioneer in the electric vehicle industry, committed to redefining electric vehicles through innovation and advanced technology. In May 2024, Leapmotor joined forces with Stellantis, expanding Leapmotor's global footprint. With a focus on quality, affordability and user-centric design, Leapmotor is redefining the future of mobility, making it more accessible to everyone.