Chinese newcomer Lepas reveals the L4 EV – a new, small SUV that’s headed for the UK – UK Times

Giant Chinese car maker Chery’s fourth brand to arrive in the UK, Lepas, is set to reveal its third new model at this week’s Auto China motor show.

The new car will make its debut at the Beijing show, but Lepas is using the event for more than just a single model reveal. The brand will also outline its wider new energy vehicle strategy as it ramps up plans for international growth, with Britain firmly in its sights.

The L4 is being pitched as a compact, city-friendly crossover aimed at modern urban life. Lepas says it has been designed to offer agility, comfort and everyday practicality, putting it right into one of the busiest parts of the EV market.

That means it is likely to face plenty of competition when it arrives, but Lepas is clearly trying to give the car a bit of personality. The L4 will be presented under the theme “Elegance Moves the World”, with the company saying the car combines design, intelligent technology and everyday usability in one small crossover package.

The L4 is also expected to give a clearer idea of what Lepas wants to stand for as a brand. The company says the car reflects its ‘Leopard Aesthetics’ design philosophy, which brings together sculpted bodywork, distinctive lighting and what it describes as a confident stance. In short, this is not being sold as just another anonymous electric SUV.

Inside, Lepas is keeping a few details back for the full reveal, but it says the L4 will feature in-car technology aimed at boosting convenience and connectivity for everyday driving. The brand says its cars are built around three pillars: Leopard Aesthetics, Elegant Technology and Exquisite Space, with a focus on design, electrified powertrains, intelligent cockpit systems and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.

Lepas says its future EV plans will be supported by parent company Chery Group’s global research and development strength and its LEX intelligent New Energy Platform. That platform is intended to support a broader range of models, from smaller cars to mid- and large-sized vehicles, as the company builds up its global lineup.

Gary Lan, CEO of Lepas UK, said: “The debut of the Lepas L4 EV represents a significant moment for our brand as we take the next step in our global journey and begin to build real momentum in international markets, including the UK.

“This is not just the introduction of a new model, but a clear signal of our long-term ambition. As we establish Lepas in the UK, we are focused on delivering a new kind of ownership experience – one that combines design, technology and a deep understanding of how customers want to live and move today.

“The UK will play a key role in our global strategy, and moments like this are important in establishing Lepas as a brand with a clear identity, strong direction and the confidence to do things differently.”

Lepas has already confirmed its first UK rollout plans, being set to launch three SUVs here over the next 12 months, starting with the flagship L8 in the third quarter of this year. The L6 will follow, with the L4 arriving after that.

More details of the L4 are expected once the car has been unveiled at the Beijing show.

Lepas sits within the wider Chery Group, which sold 2,806,393 vehicles in 2025, up 7.8 per cent year on year. New energy vehicle sales reached 903,847, a rise of 54.9 per cent, while exports climbed to 1,344,020, up 17.4 per cent and setting a new annual export record for a Chinese carmaker. Chery says its global customer base had passed 18.53 million by the end of December 2025, including more than 5.85 million overseas.