10 things to know about FREELANDER before its global launch

1. FREELANDER is now an independent global brand

Once Land Rover’s compact entry-level SUV, FREELANDER is no longer just a Land Rover nameplate. It has been revived as an independent global brand, positioned as a Premium Intelligent All-Terrain Brand, with a portfolio developed separately from Chery’s existing brands and JLR’s House of Brands.

2. JLR leads the design direction

Jaguar Land Rover leads FREELANDER’s design, while Chery provides advanced intelligent technology and global supply-chain capabilities. JLR has also established a dedicated design hub in Shanghai to help shape the brand’s visual identity.

3. FREELANDER 8 is its first strategic model

The FREELANDER 8 is the brand’s first strategic model. FREELANDER says it is built around three pillars: British Craftsmanship, Smart Confidence and All-Terrain Freedom, combining premium design, intelligent technology and all-terrain capability.

4. It secured more than 10,000 orders in 48 hours

FREELANDER says the 8 secured more than 10,000 orders within 48 hours of its launch in China, giving it early momentum ahead of its international rollout.

5. China-spec FREELANDER 8 gets 818 hp

For reference, the China-spec FREELANDER 8 uses a range-extender hybrid system with dual-motor AWD, producing up to 610 kW (818 hp) and 813 Nm. It can accelerate from 0–100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. It also gets a 60.3 kWh CATL battery, up to 310 km of CLTC electric range, an 800V architecture and claimed 20–80 per cent charging in around 12 minutes. Other key highlights include dual-chamber air suspension, rear-wheel steering, up to 270 mm of ground clearance and 900 mm of wading capability.

6. The UAE is its first international market

The UAE is FREELANDER’s first international market, with the Middle East serving as the first strategic step in its broader global expansion.

7. Its UAE dealer network is already in place

Al Tayer Motors will represent FREELANDER in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, while Premier Motors will handle Abu Dhabi.

8. More than 1,000 test vehicles have been deployed globally

The wider validation programme has involved more than 1,000 test vehicles across humid tropical conditions, extreme desert heat and cold northern environments.

9. It has been tested for Middle Eastern conditions

FREELANDER has tested the 8 across desert, coastal and urban environments in the region, focusing on vehicle performance, thermal management and all-terrain reliability.

10. It has already set a Guinness World Record

The FREELANDER 8 reached 6,002.33 metres in China, earning a Guinness World Records title for the highest altitude achieved in a hybrid car. The record was set in the Xizang Autonomous Region under low-oxygen, snowy and low-grip conditions.

What we still need to learn

The Abu Dhabi launch is expected to clarify the international FREELANDER 8’s UAE specifications, trim structure, equipment, pricing and availability, which will determine how it compares with other premium electrified and all-terrain SUVs in the market.