Lepas franchise launches under Evans Halshaw in Walsall

Evans Halshaw will launch its first Lepas showroom in Walsall on 16 November, marking the Chery Group’s entry with a dedicated UK franchise. The new site adds a fresh electric vehicle line to dealers’ portfolios and signals growing interest in Chinese‑made models across the market.

Key takeaways

• Lepas dealership opens in Walsall on 16 November.
• Evans Halshaw operates the Lepas franchise in the UK.
• Lepas is a brand created by the Chinese Chery Group.
• The launch expands the UK dealer network with a new EV line.

Background to Lepas and the Chery Group

Lepas is the latest brand launched by the Chinese automotive group Chery, targeting markets outside mainland China with a focus on affordable electric cars.

In the UK, Chery has previously offered its own badge‑engineered models, but Lepas represents a separate brand strategy aimed at differentiating design and pricing.

Evans Halshaw’s role and franchise agreement

Dealer group Evans Halshaw has secured the UK franchise for Lepas, operating the brand under the combined name Evans Halshaw Lepas.

The agreement gives Evans Halshaw rights to sell, service and market Lepas vehicles, leveraging its existing showroom network and after‑sales infrastructure.

Opening plans for the Walsall site

The Walsall showroom, scheduled to open on 16 November, will be the first purpose‑built Lepas location in the country.

The outlet will showcase the initial model range, provide on‑site test drives and integrate the brand’s digital retail tools.

Staff training is underway to ensure technicians are familiar with Lepas electric powertrains and warranty procedures.

What this means for dealers

Introducing Lepas gives dealers a new, competitively priced electric offering that can attract cost‑conscious buyers and broaden stock mix.

The partnership also provides access to Chery’s supply chain, potentially improving margins on low‑cost EVs and supporting dealers looking to meet UK emission targets.

Frequently asked questions

When does the Lepas showroom open in Walsall?

The Lepas showroom, operated by Evans Halshaw, is set to open its doors on 16 November. The launch date has been confirmed by both the dealer group and the Chery Group as the first dedicated Lepas site in the United Kingdom.

What does the Lepas franchise mean for Evans Halshaw dealers?

Evans Halshaw dealers will now be able to sell and service Lepas electric vehicles, expanding their product range with an affordable EV option. The franchise also gives them access to Chery’s supply chain, training resources and digital retail tools, which can help improve profitability and customer reach.

How might the Lepas addition affect the UK used car market?

Adding Lepas to the market introduces a new source of relatively low‑priced electric cars, which could increase the supply of affordable EVs in the used‑car sector over time. Dealers may see a shift in buyer demand towards newer electric models, influencing trade‑in values and inventory strategies.