​This is Chinese brand Lepas’ answer to the Cupra Raval, Ford Puma Gen-E and VW ID.Cross. It’s called the L4 EV, and it’s coming to the UK within the next 12 months.

The new small SUV is the latest unveiling from the brand, which is part of the giant Chery Group which is taking the British car market by storm with big selling models from Omoda and Jaecoo. 

Lepas will introduce three SUVs over the next 12 months, starting with the flagship L8 in the third quarter of this year, followed by the L6 and this, the L4.

Unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show, the L4 is described as a “a compact, city-focused crossover” which is around 4.4m long. This is bigger than the mainstream rivals, which is said to give it excellent interior space.  

There are no official technical details so we will be left guessing the battery size and motor outputs until nearer the launch, but Lepas said the L4 EV is designed for “lightweight urban use”, which would suggest it will have a smaller battery and range to keep the cost and weight low.  

It is based on Chery’s LEX platform which means it could feature a 204hp, front mounted motor and a 67kWh battery, giving a 280 mile range. It could also have 800V fast-charging – that would be a first for this sector of the market which usually only has 400V tech. 

Gary Lan, CEO of Lepas UK, said: “The debut of the L4 EV represents a significant moment for our brand as we take the next step in our global journey and begin to build real momentum in international markets, including the UK.

“The UK will play a key role in our global strategy, and moments like this are important in establishing Lepas as a brand with a clear identity, strong direction and the confidence to do things differently.” 

Lepas has only revealed teaser pictures and limited technical details of the L4 so far.