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New Chinese car brand taking South Africa by storm

Lepas, one of the Chery group’s newest local offerings, has already sold more than 1,000 new vehicles in South Africa, marking a major milestone for the brand’s growth.

According to the relatively new Chinese entrant, the milestone represents more than just a headline figure; it instead reflects increasing brand recognition among motorists across the country.

It added that each vehicle sold reflects an individual customer’s decision to trust the brand and contributes to its continued growth.

“Surpassing 1,000 sales is a defining moment for Lepas South Africa and everyone who has supported our journey,” said Jay Jay Botes, General Manager of Lepas and Chery South Africa.

“We extend our sincere gratitude to our customers for their trust, as well as to our dealers, service teams and strategic partners whose commitment continues to drive the brand forward.”

Lepas noted that the achievement reflects the progress it has made in establishing itself in a competitive local market, as it continues to strengthen its visibility and relationship with South African buyers.

The brand’s local approach is centred on delivering distinctive vehicles that feature modern technology, comfort and everyday usability, alongside a national network to provide customers a consistent ownership experience.

“The first 1,000 vehicles provide us with a strong base from which to continue growing,” said Botes.

“Our focus remains on supporting our customers, strengthening our dealer and service network and building a brand that South African motorists can trust.”

Establishing itself as a major local player

Now that the Chinese carmaker has surpassed 1,000 vehicles sold and expanded to 29 operational dealerships and 42 appointed locations, it is entering the next phase of its local development.

Lepas said the milestone provides an opportunity to recognise its customers and partners, while maintaining a clear focus on its sustainable long-term local growth plans, including strengthening its national retail and aftersales footprint.

In May, Lepas confirmed that 27 dealerships were operational across South Africa. At the time, these were supported by 39 appointed service stations and trained technicians throughout the country.

Since the opening of its Waterfall branch – the latest location to join the network – its footprint has expanded to 29 operational dealerships.

To date, Lepas has appointed 42 dealerships as it aims to establish a strong foundation to improve accessibility and provide consistent sales and aftersales support to its customers across South Africa.

This ongoing expansion of its network forms part of Lepas South Africa’s growth strategy, as a broader national presence allows more motorists to experience the brand’s vehicles firsthand.

It also provides existing customers access to trained technicians, technical expertise and dedicated ownership support.

“Our dealer and service partners have played an essential role in reaching this milestone,” explained Botes.

“They represent Lepas in their communities, introduce new customers to the brand and ensure that owners continue to feel supported long after leaving the showroom.”

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