Land Rover Freelander is back! JLR and China’s Chery reinvent mid-size 4WD as a cool, blocky all-electric SUV to fight inbound battery-powered Toyota LandCruiser
The Land Rover Freelander name is set for a dramatic return, with Jaguar Land Rover partnering Chinese giant Chery to launch a new range of electrified SUVs under a revived Freelander brand.
The first preview comes in the form of the Concept97, a bold mid-size SUV expected to closely resemble the production model due in the second half of 2026.
Developed by JLR’s Gaydon design studio in collaboration with a China-based team, the new Freelander will be built in Changshu and spearhead a six-model line-up planned over the next five years.
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A new model is expected to launch every six months as the brand rapidly expands.
Underpinning the Concept97 is Chery’s new T1X architecture, designed to support 800-volt electrical systems and multiple powertrains, including full-electric, plug-in hybrid and range-extender configurations.
The Freelander will also showcase advanced technology, including next-generation driver assistance systems co-developed with Huawei, featuring dual optical LiDAR sensors.
Off-road capability for the Concept97 remains a core focus, with intelligent terrain response, adaptive dampers and three locking differentials designed to automatically adjust to conditions.
Powering the system is Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8397 chip, making Freelander the first brand to deploy the company’s most advanced automotive processor.
Battery technology is being developed with CATL, including its “Freevoy” range-extender battery capable of ultra-fast 6C charging at rates up to 360kW.
The battery pack also incorporates cell-to-pack construction, advanced cooling systems and underbody protection to improve durability and reduce the risk of fires (or thermal runaway).
Measuring 5100mm long with a 3000mm wheelbase, the new Freelander offers seating for up to six occupants.
Its design pays clear homage to Land Rover heritage, with a boxy silhouette, squared-off lighting and styling cues reminiscent of the Defender.
While Chery has secured rights to the Freelander name — previously used on Land Rover models between 1997 and 2014 — export plans have not yet been confirmed.
However, the Concept97 has been engineered to meet Euro NCAP standards, fuelling speculation that Europe and Australia could be part of the rollout.
In China, the new Freelander is expected to replace the Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque, with a similar strategy possible in other markets if global expansion is approved.
