Lepas locks in L6 for Australia

CHERY GROUP brand Lepas has officially confirmed it will launch its business in Australia with the L6 all-electric SUV.

Set to arrive in the fourth quarter of this year, the Lepas L6 is said to represent the next step in the Chery Group’s growing commitment to electrified mobility for Australian customers, though detailed specifications, pricing, and sales forecasts are still unknown.

Lepas says the five-seat, medium segment model has been developed with “a strong focus on design, intelligent connectivity, and refined driving comfort, while also delivering the versatility expected by Australian families”.

The L6 offers sleek, Leopard-inspired exterior styling faced by slimline LED lighting signatures and a “modern stance”, while inside we find a “less is more” approach with a focus on “premium materials, comfort, and space”.

While a detailed equipment list is still under wraps, Lepas Australia says buyers can expect standard premium features that include a panoramic glass sunroof and a spacious cabin that is “designed to enhance both the driver and passenger experience”.

Elsewhere, the model is available with a heated windscreen, electric sunshade, powered tailgate, dual-zone climate control, a 50-watt wireless device charging deck, synthetic leather (PVC) upholstery, six-way powered front seats with heating and ventilation, a 360-degree camera system, and Sony-sourced audio package.

There is no confirmation as to whether these features will be offered in the Australian model.

GoAuto understands the rival to BYD’s Sealion 7 (from $54,990 plus on-road costs), GAC Aion V (from $42,990 + ORC), Geely EX5 (from $41,990 + ORC), Hyundai Elexio (from $58,990 + ORC), KGM Torres (from $58,000 driveaway), Leapmotor C10 (from $45,888 + ORC), Mazda CX-6e (from $53,990 + ORC), Renault Scenic E-Tech (from $55,990 + ORC), Skoda Elroq (from $47,990 + ORC), Tesla Model Y (from $58,900 + ORC, and Zeekr 7X (from $57,900 + ORC) is powered by a single electric motor delivering 160kW/275Nm to the front wheels.

Lepas claims a 0-100km/h standing acceleration time of 7.9 seconds.

Electrons are stored in a 67.1kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack to return a single-charge driving range of up to 450km.

International specification data shows the Lepas L6 may be charged at a rate of up to 120kW (DC) when connected to a compatible fast charger, offering a 30-80 per cent recharge in approximately 20 minutes.

AC charging is available at up to 7kW.

Built upon the Chery Group’s NEV modular platform, the Lepas L6 measures 4570mm in length, 1852mm in width, 1683mm in height, and 2700mm in wheelbase. No weight, towing, payload, or cargo capacity details are offered.

“The Lepas L6 represents an exciting new chapter for our business and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to bring innovative, technology-driven vehicles to Australian customers,” said Lepas Australia chief operating officer Lucas Harris.

“As demand for electric vehicles continues to grow locally, the Lepas L6 will offer Australian buyers a compelling combination of sophisticated design, intelligent features, and everyday usability within the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment.”

Expect full details and pricing to be announced closer to the local launch of the Lepas L6 in Q4 this year.