- Six models will be launched from the Freelander brand in the next five years.
- Underpinning the Freelander 8 is the company’s own iMAX platform.
- The EV model will support DC fast charging speeds of 350 kW.
Just a few weeks after the Freelander name was revived with a striking concept built by Jaguar Land Rover and Chery, the production version was unveiled in full during the Beijing Auto Show. Officially badged the Freelander 8, it will be sold globally, including in left- and right-hand configurations.
The Freelander 8 is based on the new company’s own iMAX platform, flexible enough to support battery-electric, extended-range EV, and plug-in hybrid powertrains. While many important details about it remain unclear, we know it’s longer than a Land Rover Defender 110, taller and wider, and could end up snatching sales from that model.
Read: Land Rover Let The Freelander Go. China Brought It Back As An Electrified SUV
The design of the new model largely mimics the Concept 97, which is certainly no bad thing. Positioned up front are a pair of intriguing square headlights, while a traditional grille is notably absent. Instead, there are small black air intakes positioned on the bumper. A LiDAR has also been added just above the windshield.
A handful of official photos of the Freelander 8 were also released, showing that it includes blacked-out, flared wheel arches just like the concept, as well as a set of rugged-looking skirts. It also sits on a set of intriguing black and silver wheels and has roof rails. While the concept had suicide doors at the rear, the production model ditches these in favor of normal doors, which is a shame.
What Else Do We Know?
Other intriguing design elements of the Freelander 8 include the angled D-pillar, similar to the old three-door Freelander. The rear end is quite simple, with a blacked-out roof spoiler, black accents on the bumper, and small taillights.
The newly formed company has yet to release photos of the SUV’s interior, but says it will include the largest “Mini LED integrated screen” in the segment, presumably similar to the pillar-to-pillar display in the Concept 97’s cabin. There will also be so-called “zero-gravity” seats in the front.
Technical specifications have not been confirmed, but we know all models use an 800-volt electrical architecture. Battery-electric motors will support charging speeds of up to 350 kW.
There’s more to come from JLR’s new Freelander brand. It plans to launch six production models over the coming five years, many of which will be sold in other markets. Sadly, the United States is not expected to be among them.
Freelander Concept 97
