What is Lepas?
The name Lepas is a combination of “leap” and “passion”. The brand was introduced internationally in Q3 last year and has since been developed as a new-energy vehicle brand aimed specifically at the European market.
The L8 SUV hybrid, pictured above, is one of Lepas’s international models and is widely expected to be the first vehicle to launch in the UK. The L8 SHS offers an electric-only range of up to 67 miles, with a combined range of 808 miles.
Does it look familiar?
To my eye, the L8 does share some design cues with the Jaguar F-Pace, particularly in its overall proportions and side profile. That said, this isn’t necessarily a negative. Many modern SUVs follow similar design themes, and the L8 still manages to present a clean, contemporary look that should appeal to European buyers.
Rather than imitation, it feels more like Lepas is aligning itself with a proven and popular SUV style as it enters a competitive market.
Chery International’s Growing Presence in the UK Market
Chery International is already an established and rapidly growing presence in the UK automotive market. This expansion has been driven by the successful launches of Omoda UK in August 2024, Jaecoo UK in January 2025, and Chery UK in the summer of last year.
Lepas: Efficiency, Comfort, and Advanced Technology
The company says Lepas will focus on “efficiency, comfort and advanced technology, built on a global platform designed to meet European customer expectations.” Details of the Lepas launch were shared confidentially with retailers during the group’s Omoda UK, Jaecoo UK, and Chery UK retailer conference in January. At the event, the group highlighted its rapid UK growth, having achieved a 5.3% combined market share within just 18 months of launch.
Chery confirmed that further UK launch plans for Lepas will be announced in the coming weeks, including details of the first model set to go on sale. The phased introduction is expected to cover leadership appointments, retailer network plans, and the brand’s positioning in the UK market.
