JLR revives Freelander name for new range of electric cars

In a surprise move, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has announced that it is reviving the iconic Freelander nameplate for a new range of electric vehicles. The Freelander, which was first introduced in 1997 and discontinued in 2014, was a popular compact SUV that gained a loyal following worldwide.

According to sources close to the company, JLR has been working on a new electric vehicle platform, codenamed “Project Freelander,” which will form the basis of a new range of electric cars. The first model to be launched under the revived Freelander name is expected to be a compact SUV, similar in size to the original Freelander.

The new Freelander range is expected to be built at JLR’s Castle Bromwich plant in the UK, which has undergone significant investment in recent years to prepare for electric vehicle production. The company has confirmed that the new Freelander will be a fully electric vehicle, with a range of at least 250 miles on a single charge.

Industry insiders suggest that the new Freelander will be positioned as a more affordable and accessible alternative to JLR’s existing electric offerings, such as the Jaguar I-PACE and Range Rover PHEV models. This move is seen as a strategic play by JLR to tap into the growing demand for electric vehicles in the compact SUV segment.

The revival of the Freelander name is also seen as a nod to the company’s heritage and a recognition of the brand’s loyal following. The original Freelander was known for its ruggedness, versatility, and off-road capability, and it is likely that these characteristics will be carried over to the new electric model.

“We are thrilled to be reviving the Freelander name, which holds a special place in the hearts of many of our customers,” said a JLR spokesperson. “Our new electric Freelander will offer a unique blend of style, capability, and sustainability, and we are confident that it will appeal to a new generation of car buyers.”

The launch of the new Freelander range is expected to take place in the next 12-18 months, with pricing and specifications to be announced closer to the launch date. In the meantime, JLR is expected to release teaser images and details of the new model to build excitement and anticipation among car enthusiasts and potential customers.

The revival of the Freelander name is a significant development for JLR, which has been investing heavily in electric vehicle technology and expanding its product lineup to meet growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions. With the new Freelander range, JLR is poised to take a major step forward in the electric vehicle market, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this iconic brand.