Chery’s new Lepas brand has completed an extensive Australian validation program, marking a step toward its local showroom debut later this year. The program involved engineers testing prototype vehicles across thousands of kilometers to adapt them for local conditions, including a wide range of road surfaces, climates, and driving scenarios. The validation program is part of the preparations for the launch of Lepas, which will become the latest brand under the Chery Group umbrella to enter the Australian market. Its first local model will be the all-electric Lepas L6 midsize SUV, due in November.
Previously confirmed for Australia, the L6 enters a growing midsize electric SUV segment. It will compete with the Tesla Model Y, BYD Sealion 7, Deepal S07 and Xpeng G6. The L6 is expected to feature slim LED lighting, a minimalist cabin with a large central touchscreen and a focus on technology and driver assistance systems. Full Australian specifications and pricing are yet to be announced.
Testing focused on Australian road conditions
According to the company, the local development program focused on adapting vehicles for Australian road surfaces, driving conditions and climate. Engineers assessed ride and handling, refinement, software calibration and advanced driver assistance systems across a mix of metropolitan, regional and rural roads. Testing included coarse-chip bitumen, country highways, winding mountain roads and urban environments, while prototypes were also evaluated in both hot- and cold-weather conditions to assess durability and climate-control performance. The company said particular attention was given to calibrating the vehicle’s advanced driver assistance systems to recognise Australian road markings, traffic signs and local driving environments.
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Australian conditions pose unique challenges, says Lepas COO
Lepas Australia chief operating officer Lucas Harris said Australia presented unique challenges for vehicle development due to its varied road surfaces, long driving distances and extreme temperatures. That prompted the company to carry out local validation rather than relying solely on global testing.
Further details, including final specifications, pricing and the broader Australian model range, are expected to be announced closer to the L6’s November launch.
