Chery’s latest international brand, LEPAS, has reached a major milestone as its first model – the L8 – officially rolls off the production line.
Designed to support Chery’s premium positioning and global expansion, LEPAS aims to fill a market gap with a fresh take on elegant travel, guided by the brand’s philosophy: “Colourful Life, Masterful Drive”.
The LEPAS L8 caters to urban elites seeking a premium vehicle. Beyond the L8, LEPAS will expand its line-up to cover all mainstream segments, building a diverse portfolio.
The new brand name fuses “LEAP” AND “PASSION”, symbolising dynamism and vitality while balancing elegance with fervour. The “Leopard Aesthetics” design, inspired by the American leopard’s muscular contours, creates boundary-defying visual signatures, says Chery.
“Chery’s continued expansion into global markets is a clear reflection of its ambition and ability to evolve with the needs of today’s discerning drivers,” says Verene Petersen, National Marketing Manager for Chery South Africa. “The introduction of LEPAS, and its first model, the L8 luxury SUV, adds a dynamic new layer to Chery’s growing portfolio, combining refined design and premium innovation to meet the expectations of a new generation of consumers.”
The debut was marked by a live unveiling attended by global partners and media, where Zhu Shaodong, Executive Vice President of Chery International Business Division, and Cao Bin, Chief Technology Officer of Chery, presented the brand’s first vehicle.
“LEPAS represents the Chery R&D team’s relentless pursuit of excellence,” says Cao. “From design and engineering validation to mass production, we have meticulously refined every detail to meet the highest global standards. Moving forward, we will ensure a seamless product roll-out, delivering vehicles that align with the needs of international markets.”
Motor industry leaders are anticipating a sharp fall in American electric vehicle sales after the elimination of a vital R135 000 tax incentive for purchasers.
BNA Motors in Cape Town is celebrating its tenth birthday this year with five separate dealerships in Goodwood and Parow and some major expansion plans for the near future.
The Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, Leapmotor, has entered South Africa and its vehicles will soon be available at selected Stellantis dealerships across the country.
Advertisement
Advertisement
A light on my car’s dashboard came on, and instead of fixing the problem, I waited for the bulb to burn out. Crisis solved.
Jarod Kintz
Motor industry leaders are anticipating a sharp fall in American electric vehicle sales after the elimination of a vital R135 000 tax incentive for purchasers.
South Africa ranks as the fourth riskiest country to drive in, according to the World's Best Drivers Index 2025, a study by Compare the Market, which tracked 56 countries, according to a report on GadgetWheels.
The Automotive Business Council (naamsa) says the broader economy surprised one and all on the upside in the second quarter, with GDP expanding by 0.8% q/q and household spending showing resilience, in its reaction to the release of the monthly new vehicle sales for September this year.
