Leapmotor’s first Australian model, the C10 electric SUV, will not gain Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility in its current form. The omission stems from the vehicle’s older LEAP 3.0 software architecture, which lacks the necessary hardware support.
The C10 launched in Australia late 2024 without smartphone mirroring, despite its positioning as a competitor to the Tesla Model Y. Leapmotor initially indicated that these features would only be considered for a mid-life update or a future generation model running the newer LEAP 3.5 platform.
This decision contrasts with the company’s newer B10 model, which did receive both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via an over-the-air update in January after launching on the LEAP 3.5 architecture in late 2025. Leapmotor Australia’s senior product manager, Rick Crichton, has confirmed that there are no plans to retroactively add these features to the C10 via software updates.
The Hardware Limitation
The C10’s infotainment system runs on LeapmotorOS, an Android-based operating system powered by a Snapdragon 8195 chip. While functional, it cannot support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto due to the underlying hardware constraints. Instead, the C10 relies on its own suite of native apps, accessible through a built-in SIM card and app store, including Spotify, TuneIn, and TikTok.
The vehicle also features a voice assistant (“Hey Leapmotor”) and Tesla-style modes like “Camp” and “Nap,” controlled through the 14.6-inch touchscreen. Recent OTA updates have added features such as integrated dashcam functionality and QDLink screen projection for Android devices.
Why This Matters
The lack of CarPlay and Android Auto is notable because these systems have become a standard expectation for most modern car buyers. Consumers rely on them for seamless smartphone integration, including navigation, music streaming, and hands-free calling. Leapmotor’s decision to exclude them from the C10 risks alienating some potential customers, particularly those who prioritize connectivity.
The situation highlights the growing divide between carmakers who embrace established smartphone mirroring standards and those who prefer proprietary in-car ecosystems. Tesla, for example, also does not offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, instead relying on its own built-in apps.
Leapmotor’s Responsiveness
Despite the C10’s limitations, Leapmotor has demonstrated responsiveness to customer feedback. According to Crichton, the company actively seeks input from local teams to improve its vehicles. Recent OTA updates have addressed some Australian-specific requests, suggesting a willingness to adapt to market demands.
However, whether this responsiveness will extend to retrofitting Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for existing C10 owners remains uncertain. While Crichton did not rule it out entirely, he offered no commitment.
In conclusion, the Leapmotor C10 will remain without Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in its current generation, forcing buyers to rely on the car’s native LeapmotorOS system. The company’s future plans are uncertain, but its responsiveness to feedback suggests a potential for change in later models.
