![Iklan](https://elskynews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Altimet-RidhuanTee-LaguRaya-LaguRayaModen-HiburanMalaysia-SelebritiMalaysia-TrendingMalaysia-ViralMalaysia-MusicMalaysia-EntertainmentNews-1.png")
SHANGHAI, April 3 — The iconic Freelander nameplate is making a dramatic return to the automotive world with the debut of the Freelander Concept 97, a futuristic electric SUV revealed through the collaboration between Chery and Jaguar Land Rover.
The concept vehicle previews the first model from a new generation of Freelander-branded vehicles, marking a significant transformation for the name that once represented compact SUVs produced by Land Rover. Instead of returning as a traditional off-road vehicle under the Land Rover lineup, Freelander will now function as a standalone electric vehicle brand focused on new-energy vehicles.
Originally introduced in 1997, the Freelander helped popularise the compact premium SUV segment before production ended in 2015. The new concept model takes inspiration from the original design while embracing modern EV technology and a significantly larger body.
A Large Electric SUV with Three Rows
The Freelander Concept 97 is designed as a large three-row SUV measuring more than 5.1 metres in length, with a wheelbase exceeding three metres. The design features a bold, upright stance with a boxy silhouette reminiscent of classic Land Rover models, including the original Freelander and the Defender.
Its exterior styling combines rugged proportions with modern EV elements, such as a closed front grille, slim lighting signatures, and large alloy wheels. The design also incorporates heritage cues from the original Freelander, including distinctive rear-quarter window shapes.
High-Tech Interior and Digital Cockpit
Inside the cabin, the concept adopts a futuristic design focused on digital technology and minimalism. One of the most striking features is a wide wraparound display stretching across the dashboard, delivering vehicle information and infotainment functions through a seamless digital interface.
The interior also includes a large central touchscreen, wireless charging pads, and physical controls for key functions, blending digital convenience with practical usability. The seating configuration allows for three rows of passengers, making the SUV suitable for families or long-distance travel.
Advanced Technology from Global Partners
The Freelander concept integrates technology from several major global tech companies. The vehicle will be powered by battery packs supplied by CATL, one of the world’s largest EV battery manufacturers.
For intelligent driving features, the SUV will incorporate Huawei’s Qiankun autonomous driving system, supported by advanced sensors such as LiDAR to enable sophisticated driver-assistance capabilities.
In addition, the vehicle will use a high-performance chipset from Qualcomm, providing significantly higher computing power for infotainment, artificial intelligence, and vehicle software functions.
New Platform and Future Line-Up
Unlike previous Chery vehicles, the new Freelander models will be built on an entirely new architecture developed specifically for electrified vehicles. Production is planned at the Chery Jaguar Land Rover manufacturing facility in Changshu, China, where around three billion yuan (approximately RM1.7 billion) has been invested to upgrade the factory for EV production.
The Freelander brand is expected to launch multiple new models over the next five years, including fully electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and range-extended EVs. Reports indicate that as many as six vehicles could be introduced as part of the new lineup.
A Strategic Move in the EV Market
The revival of the Freelander name reflects the rapid transformation of the global automotive industry toward electrification and intelligent mobility. By combining Chery’s electric-vehicle technology with Jaguar Land Rover’s design heritage, the new brand aims to compete in the fast-growing premium EV SUV segment, particularly in China’s highly competitive market.
Industry observers say the project highlights how international partnerships are increasingly shaping the future of mobility. If successful, the new Freelander lineup could eventually expand beyond China into other global markets.
For now, the Freelander Concept 97 serves as an early glimpse of what the next generation of electrified SUVs might look like — combining heritage, advanced technology, and global collaboration into a single futuristic vehicle.
