Johannesburg, 5 December 2025 - On October 20, during the 2025 Chery International User Summit, LEPAS hosted its first public safety test at the Chery Longshan Test Centre in Wuhu, open to global media and dealers, proving that true elegance is founded on uncompromising safety.
The robust safety system, which follows the principles of "All People, All Processes, All Scenarios, All Directions, and All Markets," encompasses 127 safety development standards and achieves over 95% Computer Aided Engineering simulation accuracy. This means that the LEPAS flagship model, the L8, will help South Africa get closer to its goal of ensuring safe and secure roads as outlined in the National Road Safety Strategy by 2030.
The LEPAS L8 successfully completed three rigorous tests: the Bottom Scraping Test, Fording Max 600mm Wading Obstacle Test, and Rollover Test at 60km/h, demonstrating exceptional technical strength. In the Bottom Scraping Test, the chassis remained intact, and the battery pack showed no leakage, fire or short circuit, validating its excellent protection design. During the Fording Max 600mm Wading Obstacle Test, the vehicle passed through 600mm-deep water without intrusion or failure, proving strong waterproof capability and making it the perfect vehicle for the unpredictable weather patterns of South Africa’s coastal towns.
LEPAS features a three-path front impact design and a "5-longitudinal, 3-lateral, 1-vertical" body structure layout, providing occupants with all-around and multi-dimensional safety protection. With 80% high-strength steel and aluminium and 10 airbags, the brand ensures comprehensive occupant protection while optimising wading and rollover performance for not just the SADC region but global conditions, too.
Developed on Chery Group’s all-new intelligent platform, LEPAS L8 integrates advanced three-electric systems and a human-centred intelligent cockpit, ensuring stability, efficiency and comfort. This safety test not only validated LEPAS's technological strength but also reaffirmed its positioning as the "Preferred Brand for Elegant Mobility Life," where safety and elegance coexist in perfect harmony.
In the new era of intelligent electrification, the LEPAS positions itself as the preferred car brand for Elegant Mobility Life, with safety as the cornerstone of "Drive your Elegance".
South African drivers will soon have the opportunity to experience the L4, L6, and L8, vehicles that combine intelligent design, advanced technology, and effortless performance. Launching in the first and second quarters of 2026, these models set a new benchmark in automotive elegance. They offer a seamless blend of style, comfort, and confidence, with cutting-edge safety features designed to make every journey secure and enjoyable.
ENDS
