Chery backed Lepas brand heads to Australia with two EV models

Chinese automotive giant Chery is preparing to introduce a new sub-brand, Lepas, to the Australian market, expanding its presence beyond the existing Omoda Jaecoo line. Lepas will launch with two battery electric vehicle (BEV) models: the compact L4 SUV and the larger L6, targeting right-hand-drive markets including Australia and New Zealand. Both vehicles were recently unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show, where they attracted positive attention from international media for their modern design and competitive specifications. The Lepas L4 is positioned as a small SUV comparable in size to the BYD Atto 2 and Ora 5 EV, while the L6 offers a larger footprint similar to the Geely EX5. The L4 will be available as a pure electric vehicle as well as a hybrid, although detailed powertrain specifications for Australia are yet to be confirmed. Internationally, the L4 is equipped with a 67.1 kWh battery and a 160 kW motor, enabling a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of under eight seconds and an estimated range of around 400 km. Charging times are expected to be under 30 minutes using DC fast chargers. Inside, the L4’s cabin features a minimalist design with technology reminiscent of the Omoda Jaecoo J5 EV, including a digital instrument cluster and a central portrait-oriented infotainment screen. Additional conveniences such as wireless charging and dual cup holders are incorporated to appeal to modern urban drivers. Pricing details for the Australian market remain under wraps, but industry observers anticipate the Lepas models will be positioned above the Omoda Jaecoo J5 EV, which currently starts at $36,990 driveaway. Industry expert Riz Akhtar, founder of Melbourne-based EV data and insights platform carloop, highlights the significance of Lepas’s entry as part of Chery’s broader strategy to capture a share of the growing Australian electric vehicle market. Given the strong reception of the Omoda Jaecoo J5 EV, the Lepas L4 and L6 could potentially achieve solid sales when they arrive towards the end of 2026. The launch underscores Chery’s commitment to delivering competitive, tech-forward electric vehicles tailored to international markets with right-hand-drive configurations.