Chinese automotive giant Chery has shipped the first batch of its latest New Energy Vehicle (NEV) sub-brand to launch locally, Lepas, to the Durban Port ahead of its official global launch this weekend.
The first 500 Lepas L4 models were loaded and shipped from the Taicang Port in China, marking the next phase in Chery’s local growth, as well as its increasing global expansion.
Lepas announced that it will stage the global debut of the L4 at the Cape Town Met on Saturday, 31 January, before full retail sales commence from March.
Two more models from the sub-brand, the L6 and the flagship L8, are expected to launch locally once it establishes local dealership and distribution networks.
Lepas said its debut introduces a new philosophy where automotive elegance integrates with purposeful intelligence.
The decision to launch another of its brands in South Africa was a decision Chery took due to the thriving local market.
“South Africa is one of the key hubs in Africa’s vehicle market and also one of the world’s major right-hand-drive markets,” declared Lepas.
“With its well-developed ports and logistics networks, the country serves as an important gateway for overseas brands expanding into Africa.”
Lepas also announced its intention to use South Africa as a strategic hub to expand into other markets by leveraging its mature vehicle distribution systems, ports, and logistics networks.
The first 500 examples of the L4 will feature two variants of the SUV, an internal combustion variant, as well as a hybrid option.
Both will be built on the all-new Chery LEX intelligent platform, which promises to make the Lepas L4 the standout offering in the Chery group’s line-up.
What it offers
Chery’s LEX intelligent platform has been built with both traditional internal combustion in mind as well as NEV capabilities.
The brand said this allows its new generation of vehicles to achieve electrified performance without compromising on the reliability or dependability of the previous generation.
The LEX intelligent platform boasts a 2,700mm wheelbase in its 4,400mm body length, while being 1,820mm wide and 1,635 mm high, offering drivers and passengers expanded cabin room.
In terms of styling, Lepas claims the L4 was inspired by the poised efficiency of the leopard, and features signature vertical-slit full-LED headlamps and a definitive full-width LED taillight.
Its interior features a central control infotainment system with integration for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The L4 is also said to feature a premium interior feel with warm lighting.
It has also been confirmed that the first batch of L4 models are fitted with a refined 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, as well as a hybrid offering.
Not much detail has been shared about the hybrid variant, but the traditional motor is capable of producing power outputs of 115kW and 235Nm.
The brand guarantees that the L4’s chassis and control systems ensure a smooth driving feel.
It said its first shipment also signifies that Lepas’s offerings are prepared to deliver an elegant driving and handling experience for users with diverse driving habits, even under complex road conditions.
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