Lepas unveils Aura concept, a hatchback-shooting brake design study

The Aura is the second evolution of what Lepas calls 'Leopard Aesthetics', the company said at the event. TechRadar reported that the Lepas name is a portmanteau of 'leopard' and 'passion'. The front is dominated by a 'Leopard-Eye' lighting signature and a large back-lit screen in place of a conventional grille; the screen houses the Lepas logo.

According to designer Ivan Dulanovic, the front screen can display adaptable graphics, lighting effects and animations, while an elliptical display at the rear allows for personalized taillight signatures. The absence of a front grille and ducting suggests the concept could use an electrified powertrain, TechRadar reported.

The Aura's body features pronounced shoulder lines, flowing surfaces and a long, low stance. TechRadar described the design as blending hatchback proportions with a sporty shooting brake aesthetic that could go toe-to-toe with some of Europe's best designs, setting it apart from Lepas's existing L8 and L6 SUVs, which the report said have fairly generic exterior styling.

Lepas did not confirm whether the Aura previews a production car. TechRadar reported that the concept gives a strong look at the design direction the brand intends to pursue with future models.

The brand has been making waves in many European markets with a selection of cut-price SUVs, according to TechRadar. The report noted that many new Chinese brands entering the UK and Europe tend to lack an individual identity, often appearing like an AI mash-up of numerous successful crossovers currently on sale. It said that offering customers something they immediately recognize can help reduce anxiety around trusting a new brand, and that the SUV remains the top-selling body style in most markets. But the Aura is different, the report said, previewing what a sleek and stylish hatchback or shooting brake could look like from Lepas.

The report added that the simple, uncluttered design feels fresh and should deliver more cause for concern among established European players. Until now, Audi, Porsche and Mercedes-Benz have been trading on their reputation as leading design figures, but the report argued that the Chinese automotive industry is starting to refine a style of its own.