Lepas, part of the global Chery Group, will officially enter the South African market in February 2026, bringing a new vision of modern automotive elegance with the L4, L6 and flagship L8, the brand says.
At the heart of every Lepas vehicle is all new, next generation intelligent LEX platform. This architecture, developed by the Chery Group, sets a higher benchmark for premium mobility in South Africa, according to the manufacturer.
Designed to be compatible with both New Energy Vehicle and Internal Combustion Engine production, the platform fully integrates the advantages of different automotive generations. It enables advanced electrified driving technology while also introducing new generation capability into refined ICE vehicles, delivering intelligent and electrified performance without compromising reliability and dependability.
The LEX platform enables long wheelbases within sleek proportions, creating spacious and quiet interiors. For example, the L4 achieves a 2 700 mm wheelbase from a 4 400 mm body length, while the flagship L8 offers a 2 800 mm wheelbase within a 4 688 mm footprint. This translates into generous cabin space across the model range.
Performance is taken care of by a 1.5 litre turbocharged engine delivering confident output of 115 kW and 235 Nm of torque.
Lepas vehicles are developed under a world class, all scenario safety framework guided by 127 engineering standards and supported by 95 percent CAE simulation accuracy. This commitment aligns with the goals of South Africa’s National Road Safety Strategy 2030.
“Lepas introduces a refined new benchmark in automotive elegance for South Africa,” says Jay Jay Botes, General Manager of Lepas. “With the intelligent LEX platform, we invite drivers to experience mobility where design, comfort and confidence work in harmony.”
South Africa’s electric vehicle landscape is shifting rapidly as government policy, global market pressure and local investment begin to align. Yet a clear divide remains between the slow uptake of fully electric vehicles (EVs) and the stronger growth in hybrids, reflecting the realities of affordability and infrastructure.
Nine out of every ten cars sold in December were sold by a dealer, helping to push year-end sales to pre-COVID levels.
South Africa’s new vehicle market delivered a landmark performance in 2025, finally recovering above 2019 pre pandemic levels and reaching highs not seen in a decade.
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