Overview
Chery International’s new Lepas brand will debut in the UK with its flagship L8 in the third quarter of 2026, setting the launch window and teeing up further details on product, technology, dealer coverage, and future models.
Timing and Launch Plan
- On-sale window confirmed for Q3 2026 (July–September).
- The L8 will be the first Lepas model to reach the UK.
- Further disclosures (specifications, pricing, retail partners) are planned closer to launch.
Vehicle and Platform
- L8 is positioned as the brand’s flagship at launch.
- Built on Chery International’s new modular platform for NEVs (battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, and fuel cell categories).
- Powertrain, variants, and detailed specifications are not yet announced.
Positioning, Design, and Technology (as stated by the brand)
- Lepas highlights advanced in-cabin technology and comprehensive driver-assistance systems (no feature list yet).
- Engineering is described as targeting global five-star safety standards (specific test programs not identified).
- Design narrative centers on a “leopard” theme, with styling said to evoke muscular contours and LED signatures echoing a leopard’s eye.
- Brand identity is framed around “Leopard, Leap, Passion,” aiming to appeal to buyers seeking authenticity, intelligent design, and a bold everyday experience.
Retail and Dealer Network
- Details on UK dealership network expansion will be announced in due course.
- Sales approach (franchise, agency, or hybrid), service arrangements, and geographic coverage remain unspecified.
Market Context
- Lepas joins Chery’s multi-brand push in the UK alongside Chery, Jaecoo, and Omoda.
- The L8 adds to a growing field of electrified vehicles entering the UK market.
- NEV-focused modular platforms typically enable shared components/software and faster updates across models.
What’s Confirmed vs. To Be Determined
- Confirmed: UK entry in Q3 2026; L8 as the first model; NEV modular platform; emphasis on in-cabin tech, assistance systems, and safety targets; design-led brand story.
- To be determined: detailed specifications, powertrain choices, pricing, trim/variants, dealer partners and coverage, retail model, and full model roadmap.
As launch approaches, announcements on specs, pricing, retail partners, and customer events will clarify where the L8 fits on size, price band, and competitors, and how quickly Lepas can build UK sales and aftersales presence.
