The iconic Land Rover Freelander is making a grand return — but this time, it’s going electric. After more than a decade out of the spotlight, the Freelander nameplate is being revived as a battery-powered SUV, thanks to a new partnership between Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and Chinese automaker Chery.
Unlike its earlier versions, the new Freelander won’t be built in the UK. Instead, it will be produced at Chery’s Changshu plant in China, using the company’s own electric platform. This marks a major shift for the brand, as the new EV will not be engineered by JLR, but instead developed on Chery’s proven modular T1X architecture — already used across several of its electric and hybrid vehicles.
JLR and Chery began collaborating on this platform as early as 2016. Now, with China’s growing demand for electric vehicles, the two companies are re-aligning their strategy to cater specifically to this market. The new Freelander lineup will debut in China first, with plans to expand into international markets later on.
The upcoming range is expected to include plug-in hybrid models initially, followed by fully electric variants. According to sources, design work will be shared between both automakers, but production and technical development will stay under Chery’s control. The new Freelander is also expected to carry a more premium appeal than before.
Reports suggest that the top variants could come with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup and offer a driving range of over 600 kilometers on a single charge — putting it in line with modern EV standards.
This comeback is part of JLR’s wider restructuring plans in China. Several Jaguar models like the XE, XF, and E-Pace — previously built in partnership with Chery — are being phased out. Production of Land Rover’s Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque in China is also expected to end by 2026. These moves are aimed at making room for new, China-focused electric models.
By reviving the Freelander name, JLR hopes to re-establish a strong presence in the world’s largest EV market and boost sales in a rapidly changing automotive landscape.