Overview
- The Chery–JLR joint venture set a March 31 debut for the reborn Freelander, launching it as a standalone electrified brand in China with potential for global expansion.
- JLR will steer the design and brand positioning, while Chery handles the platform and engineering for local production.
- Industry reporting indicates use of Chery’s T1X modular architecture and an initial plug-in hybrid powertrain, with the setup designed to support full-electric and range-extender variants.
- Production will center at the CJLR plant in Changshu after a reported ¥3 billion upgrade that replaces local Discovery Sport and Evoque builds, and the venture has begun hiring with more than 30 openings across Shanghai and Suzhou.
- Official teasers point to rectangular pixel-style headlights, a boxy three-row body over 5.1 meters long, and styling led by JLR’s UK design studio.