Lepas expanding into electric territory with SA-bound L6 EV

Lepas, the Chinese automotive brand owned by Chery, is set to expand into the electric vehicle market with its upcoming L6 EV model. The news follows the introduction of the L6 combustion-engined version earlier this year. The electric L6 will make its debut at the Festival of Motoring event at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit later this weekend, though a specific launch date and pricing details are still pending.

Despite sharing the same exterior design as the L6 gas-powered counterpart, the L6 EV showcases a distinctive front fascia that foregoes the large grille and replaces it with a sleeker, sculpted bumper featuring triangular headlights. The EV version comes standard with 19-inch alloy wheels. The front-mounted electric motor delivers 160kW and 275Nm of power to the front wheels, while a 67.09kWh battery promises a WLTC range of up to 450km on a full charge.

This battery can be charged via both alternating and direct current. Inside, the cabin boasts a 13.2-inch vertical touchscreen display, an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, a 540-degree panoramic camera, an eight-speaker Sony sound system, and a 50W wireless smartphone charger. Additional luxury features include dual-zone climate control, multi-colored ambient lighting, powered tailgate operation, and a panoramic sunroof.

The L6 EV also offers a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and its front seats are equipped with electrically adjustable, heating, and ventilated seats with memory functions. Lepas brand and marketing manager Letitia Herold expressed enthusiasm about the L6 EV, stating, "The L4 marked the start of our journey in South Africa earlier this year, and the imminent launch of the L6 will take our local range another step forward.

The L6 EV shows how we plan to build on that foundation by giving consumers more choice, not only between models but also between powertrains." Lepas continues to provide more information about the L6 EV as the launch date draws nearer.