Chery's New Lepas Brand Debuts in Europe with High-Performance Hybrid and EV SUVs

Chery is expanding its European presence with a new brand called Lepas. This latest addition will join the company's existing lineup of Chery, Omoda, and Jaecoo in the region. The brand is designed specifically for Europe, focusing on electrified SUVs.

Lepas will enter the UK market in the third quarter of 2023. A wider launch across continental Europe is expected in the coming months, though no exact dates have been confirmed.

The first model under the Lepas name will be the mid-size L8 SUV. It will be available in two versions: the all-electric Lepas L8 EM-P and the plug-in hybrid Lepas L8 EM-i. The pure-electric variant offers a claimed range of around 700 km (CLTC), supports 800V fast charging, and features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing up to 637 PS. The plug-in hybrid combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine with dual electric motors, delivering a total range of roughly 1,370 km and a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.5 seconds.

Both versions share the same dimensions: 4,778 mm in length, 1,935 mm in width, and 1,689 mm in height, with a 2,825 mm wheelbase. They also include Level 2+ advanced driver assistance systems. These models are set to launch in China by late 2025, with European availability to follow.

Lepas will offer both all-electric and hybrid powertrains, depending on the market. The brand's arrival marks Chery's continued push into Europe's growing electric vehicle sector. The Lepas L8 will lead the charge as the first model in the lineup.