More than a quarter of a century since the Land Rover Freelander was retired, the iconic SUV nameplate has made a triumphant return with the Freelander 8. This rugged new model is the result of a collaboration between Chery and Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), marking the first of six SUVs set to launch over the next five years as part of their Anglo-Sino partnership.
The Freelander 8 is already confirmed for right-hand-drive markets, paving the way for potential sales in Australia. It will be sold under the newly established Freelander sub-brand, with initial sales planned to start in China later this year before export shipments begin.
Key Features of the Freelander 8
- All-electric mid-to-large six-seat SUV: Designed to compete with vehicles like the Toyota Kluger, the Freelander 8 comes equipped with powerful 800-volt electrics that enable ultra-fast DC charging.
- Future hybrid options: The model will eventually offer both a range-extender hybrid (REEV) and plug-in hybrids, aligning with European trends.
- Advanced battery technology: The REEV version will feature CATL’s latest Freevoy battery, capable of 6C charging and reaching peak DC charging speeds of 360kW.
- Off-road capability: The Freelander 8 includes an electronic limited-slip differential combined with a virtual central locking differential, plus a height-adjustable dual-chamber air suspension system.
Drawing inspiration from the original Freelander and the current Defender, the Freelander 8 features a design that blends heritage with modernity. While styled by the British 4×4 brand, the vehicle incorporates advanced technology sourced from its Chinese partner.
Notable tech highlights include a curved screen that stretches from pillar-to-pillar, a large central floating infotainment system, and a limited number of physical switches alongside a large rotary dial. The interior offers a 2+2+2 seating configuration, with the second row featuring zero-gravity seats for a limo-like level of comfort.
The Freelander 8 also boasts cutting-edge features such as extra-bright 8000-pixel projection headlamps and Huawei’s latest-gen 896-LiDAR. These technologies support the tech giant’s Qiankun ADS 4.1 driver assistance system, which provides Level 2+ autonomous driving capabilities.
These advanced systems are also expected to enhance the Freelander 8’s off-road performance, offering up to nine terrain modes. When it arrives in Europe, the vehicle has been engineered to achieve the full five stars for protection in EuroNCAP crash tests, which could translate to strong results in future ANCAP evaluations.
Manufacturing and Branding
Built at a Chery-Land Rover plant in Changshu, near Shanghai, the Freelander 8 does not carry any Chery or Land Rover branding. Instead, it operates as an independent brand, separate from other Chery subsidiaries such as Exeed, Omoda, Jaecoo, Lepas, Luxeed, and iCaur (iCar).
It remains unclear whether the Freelander will be rebadged and sold through Land Rover dealers in markets like Europe or Australia. However, the vehicle represents a significant step forward in the joint venture between Chery and JLR, combining the strengths of both brands to create a competitive and innovative product.
