Chinese automotive brand Lepas – which launches in South Africa early next year – has secured its first international orders for the new L8 model following its global debut at the Jakarta International Auto Show (GIIAS) in Indonesia. The brand utilised the event to introducie its initial product line-up: the L8, L6, and L4 models.
Positioning itself around the concept of ‘exquisite travel’, Lepas aims to shift industry focus from basic functional satisfaction towards integrating life aesthetics. At GIIAS, this philosophy was expressed through a booth designed as an integrated runway and lifestyle space, creating an immersive experience intended to reflect the brand's view that vehicles are an extension of personal life. The company plans global expansion based on a strategy combining design, technology, and service, offering a seamless ‘elegant driving’ experience across markets.
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The L8, Lepas's latest energy vehicle, embodies the brand's ‘Leopard Aesthetics’ design language. It features a streamlined silhouette, distinctive lighting elements and detailed craftsmanship, aligning with the Lepas principle that ‘elegance is power’. The vehicle's cockpit has a skyline-inspired layout and natural textures, prioritising comfort and intelligent features, designed to meet the expectations of an international urban clientele.
Lepas operates as a core component of Chery Group's global strategy. The parent company provides Lepas with access to global resources. This includes research and development, manufacturing, supply chains and established sales networks. Leveraging Chery's worldwide R&D centres, Lepas benefits from full-link development capabilities, aiming to ensure product quality and responsiveness to user needs.
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Chery Group, which recently entered the 2025 Fortune Global 500 at position 233, supports Lepas's international entry. The group has developed capabilities in new energy and intelligent vehicle technologies, employing a progressive R&D strategy described as 'mass-produce one, develop one, pre-research one'.
The flagship L8 SUV will spearhead the local launch, with the compact L4 and midsize L6 models expected to follow. The brand intends to offer South African drivers a premium SUV experience characterised by distinctive styling, high-quality interiors, and advanced hybrid powertrain options, blending elegance, innovation, and lifestyle appeal.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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