Electric vehicles outperform hybrids on efficiency and cost
As South Africa forges ahead in the automotive landscape, a notable divide has emerged in the growing realm of new-energy vehicles.
- New Energy Vehicles
- 8 December 2025
The Lepas will officially debut in South Africa in 2026, introducing a different perspective on what a premium SUV can be with an eye aimed at younger, style-conscious drivers seeking modernity, claims the Chinese brand.
To lead the roll-out of the Lepas in South Africa, Chery South Africa has appointed Letitia Herold as National Brand & Marketing Manager.
She brings experience from across the automotive and media industries and will oversee the local launch strategy, partnerships and market engagement for Lepas, aligning the brand with its target market.
“I am honoured to have been chosen to build the LEPAS brand in South Africa,” comments Letitia. “We are speaking to a generation that wants more than just a car, they want an experience that reflects who they are.
The LEPAS L8, which debuted earlier this year, sets a bold tone, with sculpted exterior lines, a spacious interior and the latest driver-assist technologies that can be expected in a premium SUV.
The Lepas will expand its offering across multiple segments, growing a versatile lifestyle suited to everything from family life to executive living, it claims.
The name Lepas blends “leap” and “passion,” reflecting a brand built on movement and vitality.
As South Africa forges ahead in the automotive landscape, a notable divide has emerged in the growing realm of new-energy vehicles.
Volkswagen is accelerating its African ambitions, with Egypt emerging as the latest contender for a major manufacturing role.
Kenya’s automotive industry recently made headlines when Tad Motors unveiled its first range of locally assembled electric vehicles (EVs), igniting discussions across Africa about the continent’s growing capacity for indigenous mobility solutions.
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You can't buy happiness but you can buy cars and that's kind of the same thing.
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Volkswagen is accelerating its African ambitions, with Egypt emerging as the latest contender for a major manufacturing role.
Australia’s growing love affair with oversized bakkies (or Utes as they are known Down Under) has sparked a fresh safety review by ANCAP (Australasian New Car Assessment Program). This time, it is not just about surviving a crash, but avoiding one altogether.
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