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New Brand of the Chery Group, Lepas in Brazil Increases Competition Among Chinese SUVs in the Brazilian Automotive Market.
Lepas in Brazil is about to become a reality and, with that, it should mark yet another relevant chapter in the Chery Group’s expansion strategy in the country.
The new brand, created in 2025, is set to debut in the second half of this year and thus expand the presence of Chinese SUVs in the national market.
In addition, the initiative reinforces the influx of new automotive brands into Brazil.
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Group executives confirmed the information and therefore, indicated a commercial offensive that goes beyond the Brazilian market.
The plan foresees a presence in 45 countries by 2027, demonstrating the global ambition of the operation.
Right from the first moves, Lepas’s strategy relies on a streamlined portfolio, composed of three sports utility vehicles.
All models use platforms already known from Chery. In this way, the group bets on scale, speed, and technological recognition to gain space in highly competitive markets like Brazil.
Lepas in Brazil: Who is Bringing It, When It Arrives, and Why It Invests in the Country
The arrival of Lepas occurs at a time of significant transformation in the Brazilian automotive market.
Currently, the sector is experiencing the gradual electrification of the fleet, greater acceptance of Asian brands, and increased competition in the SUV segment.
In this context, the Chery Group, present in Brazil since 2009, intensified its operations after forming a partnership with Caoa in 2017.
In an interview with the program CBN Autoesporte, Roger Corassa, executive vice president of Omoda & Jaecoo Brazil, confirmed the arrival of a new brand from the group in 2026.
Subsequently, investigations revealed that this is Lepas, a subdivision of Chery International aimed exclusively at markets outside China.
Headquartered in Wuhu, Lepas officially emerged in April 2025 and since then, carries a clear mission: to support the global export strategy of the automaker.
Therefore, Brazil assumes a strategic role alongside markets in Europe, South America, Australia, Malaysia, and South Africa.
Global Strategy and Focus on Chinese SUVs
The accelerated expansion of Lepas highlights how Chinese SUVs have become protagonists in the strategies of Asian automakers.
The segment concentrates high demand, more attractive margins, and increasing consumer acceptance. Consequently, new brands can scale operations more quickly.
According to the disclosed plan, Lepas intends to operate in 45 countries by the end of 2027.
To achieve this, the company utilizes platforms shared with other Chery models, which reduces costs, accelerates launches, and facilitates regulatory adaptations.
In addition, the emphasis on hybrid and electrified versions aligns with the global trend of emission reduction. At the same time, it meets environmental demands that are also advancing in Brazil.
Lepas Portfolio: Three SUVs for Different Audiences
The initial portfolio of Lepas includes three SUVs: L4, L6, and L8. The logic is straightforward: the higher the number, the larger the vehicle. This way, the brand covers different consumption ranges right at its debut.
All models share structural bases with vehicles already known from Chery. With that, adaptation to the Brazilian automotive market tends to occur more swiftly.
Lepas L4: Compact SUV for the Most Competitive Segment
The L4 acts as an entry-level model and competes in the compact SUV segment.
The vehicle measures about 4.30 meters in length and has a wheelbase of 2.60 meters.
This way, it faces established competitors like Volkswagen T-Cross, Hyundai Creta, and Chevrolet Tracker.
Although the brand has not yet released official data, expectations point to the use of a 1.5 turbo four-cylinder engine, already familiar to Brazilian consumers.
Additionally, Lepas is considering hybrid versions, which reinforce its electrification strategy.
Lepas L6: Medium SUV to Compete for Leadership
The L6 positions itself as a medium SUV and measures approximately 4.50 meters in length.
In this segment, competition includes Jeep Compass, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Volkswagen Taos.
The mechanical set is expected to use the 1.6 turbo gasoline engine with 187 hp, already employed in Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8.
In addition, some markets are expected to receive hybrid versions, which expands the model’s reach.
Lepas L8: Plug-In Hybrid at the Top of the Range
The L8 occupies the top of the lineup and presents itself as the most technological SUV of the brand.
The model measures around 4.70 meters in length, with a wheelbase of 2.80 meters.
Therefore, it aligns closely with vehicles like the Jeep Commander.
Equipped with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system, the L8 combines a 1.5 turbo engine and an electric motor.
Together, they deliver 275 hp of power and 37.2 kgfm of torque.
The 18.4 kWh battery ensures an electric range of up to 100 km in the Chinese CLTC cycle.
What Changes in the Brazilian Automotive Market
The arrival of Lepas in Brazil reinforces a clear trend: the consolidation of Chinese SUVs and the rise of new automotive brands in the country.
For consumers, this represents more options, greater competition, and possibly more competitive prices.
Meanwhile, the Chery Group expands its local presence and diversifies its operations with brands of distinct positioning. This way, the market gains dynamism.
The expectation is that the manufacturer will disclose, in the coming months, details about prices, versions, and the launch schedule.
With that, the second half promises to be especially busy for those following the Brazilian automotive market.
See more at: Exclusive: Lepas is the new Chinese car brand coming to Brazil in 2026
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