Chinese Automaker Chery Launches New LEPAS Brand in Israel with Large Hybrid SUV

Chinese automotive giant Chery is introducing a new brand called LEPAS to the Israeli market, expanding its presence alongside existing Chery sub-brands. LEPAS, established in April 2025, targets affluent customers seeking stylish, youthful, and technologically advanced vehicles. The brand name combines the words Leopard, Leap, and Passion, reflecting its dynamic image.

The first LEPAS model to arrive in Europe and Israel is the LEPAS L8, a large five-seat plug-in hybrid SUV based on the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro. It features a more refined design with a slightly sloping rear and offers a hybrid powertrain combining a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine (143 hp) with an electric motor (204 hp) for a combined output of 347 hp, powering the front wheels. The 18.3 kWh battery provides an electric driving range of approximately 90 kilometers.

Future LEPAS models planned for Europe include the smaller L4 and the compact L6, based on the Tiggo 4 Pro and Tiggo 7 Pro, respectively. In Israel, Chery’s existing brands are distributed by different companies: Chery vehicles by Frisbee and the Jaecoo and Omoda brands by Calmobile. However, Calmobile confirmed it will not handle LEPAS distribution, and Frisbee has not yet responded regarding the new brand’s local importer.

This launch adds to the already saturated Israeli market of Chinese automotive brands offering a variety of models ranging from compact to large SUVs, with gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric powertrains. LEPAS aims to position itself above Jaecoo but below Chery’s premium Exeed brand in terms of market segment and image.