22 minutes to charge: Lepas L6 leads new EV brand into Australia
Lepas Australia will launch its first EV for the Australian market in October
Another day, another Chinese EV as Chery Group automotive brand Lepas Australia will launch its first EV for the Australian market, the L6 EV, in October.
The mid-size electric SUV is built on the LEX platform, which is designed to support “a broad range of new-energy powertrains and vehicle sizes, providing the technological foundation for the brand’s next generation of electrified vehicles”, according to a Lepas Australia statement. (Lepas is a mash-up of ‘Leopard’, which the vehicle takes some design cues from (“distinctive slim LED lighting signatures inspired by the eyes of a leopard”), and ‘passion’.)
L6 EV engineers have utilised Chery Group’s battery development experience, incorporating a high-density battery system engineered to deliver balanced performance, efficiency, charging capability and everyday usability.
The L6 EV is powered by a 65kWh LFP battery and it has a front-mounted electric motor (producing 160kW of maximum power and 275Nm of maximum torque), with drive sent exclusively to the front wheels.
The L6 delivers a claimed 440km driving range (WLTP), with energy consumption rated at 17.5kWh/100km.
DC fast-charging capability enables the battery to charge from 30 to 80 per cent in about 22 minutes, providing faster-than-standard access to additional range when required.
“The L6 represents an exciting new chapter for our business and marks the arrival of Lepas in Australia,” said Lucas Harris, chief operating officer for Lepas Australia.
“Lepas has been developed around the concept of ‘Bold by nature’ – bringing together sophisticated design and colours, intelligent technology and advanced electrification in a way that is relevant to the everyday needs of Australian customers.
“The L6 is an important first step for the brand, offering a compelling combination of style, technology, comfort and EV performance in one of Australia’s most competitive vehicle segments.”
Key interior and convenience features include:
• 8.88-inch LCD digital driver display
• 13.2-inch LCD infotainment touchscreen
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• “Hello LEPAS” intelligent voice command
• Eight-speaker Sony premium sound system
• 50W wireless smartphone charging
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Synthetic leather upholstery
• Panoramic sunroof with slide and tilt function and powered sunshade
• Colour selectable ambient lighting
• Powered tailgate
• Puddle lights
Exterior specification includes 19-inch machined-finish alloy wheels, LED lighting and a panoramic glass roof.
Key safety and driver-assistance technologies include:
• Seven airbags
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Autonomous Emergency Braking
• Lane Departure Prevention
• 360-degree Around View Monitor
• Automatic Parking Assist
• Remote Parking Assist
More details on the Lepas L6 EV – including variants, full specifications and pricing – will be made available closer to the official launch later this month.
