Another sub-brand from the Chinese powerhouse, Chery Group Holdings, is scheduled for an imminent release into the local market when Lepas start to hit South African roads next month.
The first of these will be the L4, which will lead the way for two more models, namely the L6 and the brand’s flagship, the L8.
All of these vehicles are being built on Chery’s next-generation LEX intelligent platform, an updated layout for the carmaker, which enables much longer wheelbases than its previous platforms.
According to Lepas, this advanced architecture will set a higher benchmark for premium mobility in South Africa.
The LEX platform was designed for both New Energy Vehicle (NEV) and traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicle production, integrating advantages from different automotive generations.
Lepas says the L4 has been engineered to offer both hybrid flexibility as well as petrol performance, delivering electrified innovation combined with everyday reliability.
This has become somewhat of a trend with newer vehicle offerings from Chery and its sub-brands, Jetour, and Omoda and Jaecoo.
As such, the L4 is likely to be offered in both an ICE configuration and a NEV version, as seen in other Chinese brands.
The Lepas line-up also promises to be sleeker looking than its Chery counterparts, with styling inspired by the elegance of a leopard.
While pricing has not yet been announced, Lepas claims the L4 captures the spirit of accessible elegance, which remains to be seen when pricing is confirmed.
Chery and its sub-brands do have several NEV offerings at attainable price points, which could indicate that the L4 will be reasonably priced.
Lepas has not said much about the L8 as yet, but did confirm that its flagship will be released later this year.
The brand says this model will offer even more space and a stronger, premium presence, while still being built on the same advanced platform as the L4.
Official launch dates for the latter, as well as pricing for either, are still under wraps for now.
What to expect
With the announcement of the LEX intelligent platform, Lepas noted its ability to inject new-generation capability into its refined internal combustion vehicles.
This way, the brand has been able to achieve electrified performance without compromising on reliability or dependability.
The L4 sports an expansive 2,700mm wheelbase from just a 4,400mm body length, while the L8 model boasts a wheelbase 400mm longer within its 4,688mm body.
Through this longer wheelbase, Lepas says it is able to create spacious, quiet interiors across its line-up.
In terms of propulsion, vehicles on the LEX platform are fitted with a refined 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, with no further information on NEV layouts.
This motor is capable of producing power outputs of 115kW and 235Nm, while Lepas guarantees its chassis and control systems ensure a smooth driving feel.
The L4 is expected to feature a premium interior feel, with warm lighting and ample intuitive technology that promises to enhance driving experience.
Jay Jay Botes, General Manager of Lepas South Africa, says the brand is setting the benchmark for automotive elegance in South Africa.
“With the intelligent LEX platform, we invite drivers to experience mobility where design, comfort and confidence work in harmony,” he says.
“The arrival of Lepas marks the start of a new culture of elegant, intentional driving in South Africa.”
The Lepas L4
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