Freelander brand confirms entry into UK market — Autocar
The new automotive brand Freelander has confirmed its entry into the UK market as part of the third wave of its international expansion. Autocar reports.
Market entry plan
Freelander was created as a result of cooperation between China’s Chery and JLR, and the brand was named after the original Land Rover Freelander. Initially, the marque is set to enter the markets of the Middle East and North Africa. The vehicles will then be introduced in the first right-hand-drive countries — Australia and New Zealand. This will be followed by entry into the UK and other European countries.
The year sales will begin in the UK and the company that will be responsible for importing the vehicles have not yet been named. JLR chief PB Balaji previously said that the British company would not prevent Chery from bringing Freelander to this market. According to him, JLR’s role is to ensure that the models’ design aligns with the company’s approach, while the brand’s further development is Chery’s responsibility.
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The brand’s first model
The brand’s first model is the large Freelander 8 SUV with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It combines a 2.0-litre petrol engine and two electric motors, which together produce 617 hp and provide all-wheel drive.
The vehicle is equipped with a 34 kWh battery which, according to the stated specifications, enables up to 68 miles of electric-only driving. Charging is supported at up to 350 kW. Freelander CEO Wen Fei also previously noted that for exports to Europe, the company would develop separate versions adapted to local markets rather than supply reworked versions of Chinese models. Freelander prices have not yet been announced, although PB Balaji said the brand’s positioning would differ from JLR’s more expensive models.
