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

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

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

Future LEPAS models planned for Europe include the smaller L4 and compact L6 SUVs, based on the Tiggo 4 Pro and Tiggo 7 Pro platforms, respectively. Regarding local distribution in Israel, Chery’s existing brands are split between two importers: Chery vehicles are sold through Frisbee, while Omoda and Jaecoo are handled by Colmobil. Colmobil has confirmed it will not distribute LEPAS models, and Frisbee has not yet responded about their involvement.

This launch adds to the already saturated Israeli market of Chinese automotive brands, which offer a wide range of vehicles from compact to large, private to commercial, and various powertrains including gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric. LEPAS aims to position itself above Jaecoo but below Chery’s premium Exeed/Excellent sub-brands, appealing to buyers looking for a blend of style and advanced technology.