LEPAS, the new energy vehicle brand under Chery Group, will make its European debut at Milano Design Week from April 20 to 26. The brand will unveil its LEX intelligent new energy platform alongside the LEPAS L8 and LEPAS L6 models at Via Vigevano 18 in Milan, marking the company’s formal entry into the European market.
Highlights
- LEX platform debut: LEPAS will globally premiere its modular LEX intelligent new energy platform, built around spatial, energy, and mobility intelligence pillars.
- Two models revealed: The LEPAS L8 flagship and mid-size L6 SUV will be shown, with the L6 available in both plug-in hybrid and battery-electric configurations.
- European strategy announced: The brand will outline its new energy mobility strategy for Europe and global markets, including a partner co-creation plan.
- Fourth Chery brand in Europe: LEPAS joins Omoda, Jaecoo, and the Chery nameplate in the group’s expanding European portfolio.
LEX Platform and Three Core Intelligences
The LEX platform underpins LEPAS’s vehicle lineup and supports both hybrid and fully electric powertrains. The company describes it as built around three technology pillars.
Spatial intelligence focuses on human-centered cabin layouts and flexible configurations designed to adapt across use cases. Energy intelligence balances range and efficiency through advanced battery and powertrain management. Mobility intelligence integrates driver-assistance and connectivity systems intended to improve safety and comfort.
LEPAS has not disclosed specific technical specifications for the platform, such as battery capacities, motor outputs, or charging speeds, in this announcement. However, reporting from Just Auto and other outlets provides additional detail on the L6.
LEPAS L6 Specifications
The LEPAS L6 is a mid-size, five-seat SUV offered in two powertrain variants. The Super Hybrid pairs a 1.5-liter engine with an electric motor and battery pack, claiming a combined range exceeding 700 miles. The battery-electric version uses a 67 kWh battery with a claimed range of 270 miles and supports 30-to-80-percent rapid charging in approximately 20 minutes.
Both range figures cited here are manufacturer claims, likely based on WLTP testing. Real-world results may vary depending on driving conditions.
Ray Wang, LEPAS UK Managing Director, said in a separate announcement: “The LEPAS L6 marks an exciting step for our brand in Europe and, of course, the UK market – as we confirm this will be the second model sold. Combining our proprietary LEPAS Super Hybrid and fully electric powertrains, the LEPAS L6 delivers exceptional efficiency, impressive range, and rapid charging – all tailored for British roads.”
European Market Strategy
LEPAS becomes Chery’s fourth brand in the European market, following Omoda, Jaecoo, and the eponymous Chery nameplate. The brand name combines “Leopard” and “Passion,” and its market positioning centers on a philosophy it calls “Elegant Technology.”
The flagship LEPAS L8 is expected to go on sale in the UK in Q3 2026, with the L6 following in Q4 2026. UK pricing has not been announced for either model.
Chery Group, headquartered in Wuhu, China, ranked 385th on the 2024 Fortune Global 500 with revenues of $39.1 billion. The company describes itself as China’s largest vehicle exporter for 23 consecutive years.
Milan Design Week Context
The choice of Milano Design Week rather than a traditional auto show reflects a growing trend among automakers using design and lifestyle events for brand launches. The LEPAS L4 has already launched in South Africa as the brand’s first market entry, and the Milan event represents the formal European introduction.
LEPAS will also unveil a global co-creation plan with partners during the event, though specific partner names and terms have not been disclosed.
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