Land Rover’s Freelander nameplate has re-emerged as a standalone electrified SUV brand, with the first concept unveiled in China as part of a joint venture between Jaguar Land Rover and Chery.
Dubbed Concept 97, the SUV references the original Freelander launched in 1997 and combines British and Chinese design input.
The concept draws styling cues from the modern Defender and is expected to deliver off-road capability through an electric four-wheel-drive system.
It is also expected to use 800-volt architecture and be offered with a mix of powertrains, including fully electric, plug-in hybrid and range extender options.
Inside, the vehicle features a three-row, six-seat layout with a rear bench seat configuration.
The cabin includes a full-width display spanning the windscreen, supported by a secondary infotainment screen below, along with a fold-down screen for rear passengers.
The Freelander line-up is expected to expand to six models over time, with development projected over the next five years.
Production will take place at Chery Jaguar Land Rover’s plant in Changshu, China, and the new range is expected to replace the Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque.
