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.
Ahead of the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA), Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE) has once again called on the President and national government to act decisively on South Africa’s electric vehicle transition.
Hyundai Springfield Park has been named Dealer of the Year at the 2026 Hyundai Automotive South Africa Dealer Conference, held at Sun City.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is re-entering the growing urban delivery market with the launch of the Vivo Xpress which will be available for sale from February 2026.
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Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?
George Carlin
There is a profound realignment in consumer expectations, brand positioning and technological priorities, with Germany losing long held advantages in its domestic market while China rapidly moves up the value chain.
Over the past weekend, reports surfaced of a letter sent by Martina Biene, chairperson and managing director of Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA), to President Cyril Ramaphosa warning of the increasingly precarious position of South Africa’s automotive sector.
On 20 February 2026, at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit in Australia, the new WorldSBK season roars to life, promising one of the most dynamic championships in recent memory.
