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The Land Rover Freelander is set to return as an EV-only offering, this time built by JLR’s Chinese partner, Chery
A nameplate not heard in over a decade is inching back into the spotlight but with a different face altogether. The Land Rover Freelander is set to return as an EV-only offering, this time built by JLR’s Chinese partner, Chery, at the Changsu plant. Unlike the earlier iteration, the new Freelander will ride on Chery’s own electric architecture as it is not engineered by JLR in the UK.
A brand new lineup will kick off in China before expanding to other markets. The modular T1X platform from Chery has used across several of its own brands and is expected to underpin the upcoming Freelander range. JLR and Chery had early collaborative involvement in shaping this structure as far back as 2016. While global distribution is part of the long-term roadmap, the initial products will focus squarely on the Chinese market.
In addition, a plug-in hybrid setup is expected with fully electric models joining the fray later. Design inputs are said to be shared between the two automakers but the platform and production control will remain in Chery’s hands. The Freelander moniker will now serve in a more premium manner compared to its last stint according to reports.
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What’s more, speculation hints at a dual-motor layout and a projected range of more than 600 km. The backdrop to this move is JLR’s impending restructuring in China. The Jaguar-branded models like the XE, XF and E-Pace, which are co-manufactured under the Chery partnership, are heading for discontinuation.
On Land Rover’s end, Chinese production of the Evoque and Discovery Sport will be wound down by late 2026. The group appears to be clearing space for newer, China-specific EV offerings. The Freelander’s second innings is part of a new strategy by JLR to avoid losses and the improve overall volume sales as China used be a main focus for the British automaker.
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JLR may hope new names like Freelander to help re-anchor the brand in that particular region as it is world’s best-selling electric vehicle consumer for a reason.
The post Land Rover Freelander To Return In A New EV Avatar Next Year appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News by Surendhar M.
