Freelander 8 revealed as first model under Chery-JLR NEV partnership

The revived Freelander nameplate has returned with the official reveal of the new Freelander 8, marking the first production model developed under the joint new energy vehicle (NEV) cooperation between Chery and Jaguar Land Rover. The SUV is scheduled to debut in China in the second half of 2026, with a global rollout expected to follow.

The Freelander brand was previously confirmed as part of a new electrified SUV strategy jointly created by Chery and Jaguar Land Rover. The Freelander 8 builds on the earlier Concept 97, forming the starting point of what is expected to be a multi-model lineup over the coming years.

Moves into production validation

The Freelander 8 has now entered the production validation phase, following extensive durability and environmental testing. This stage indicates the model has progressed beyond concept and prototype development, moving into final pre-production calibration ahead of its market launch.

Boxy design with off-road focus

In terms of design, the Freelander 8 stays close to the Concept 97’s visual direction. It adopts a boxy SUV silhouette, with an upright stance and clean, straight character lines along the sides. The front end features a closed-off surface typical of electrified vehicles, paired with rectangular lighting elements.

A roof-mounted LiDAR unit is integrated into the design, signalling the SUV’s focus on advanced driver assistance and terrain-aware driving capabilities.

Huawei-powered ADAS and terrain systems

The Freelander 8 will feature Huawei’s ADS 5 intelligent driving system, supported by an 896-line LiDAR setup. This is combined with an i-ATS intelligent all-terrain system, which uses LiDAR and binocular camera inputs to analyse terrain conditions and adjust driving strategies accordingly.

The vehicle is underpinned by a centralised computing architecture powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8397 hardware, supporting both driving assistance and vehicle control systems.

Flexible electrified platform

Built on a new dedicated platform, the Freelander 8 will support multiple powertrain configurations, including battery electric (BEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and extended-range variants. For the Chinese market, the model will standardise an 800V high-voltage system in range-extended form.

The battery pack is developed in partnership with CATL, with peak charging capability rated at 350 kW and up to 6C fast-charging performance, according to official specifications.

GCC Arrival

Freelander had initially planned to launch in April, starting with the UAE before expanding across the wider GCC. However, due to recent regional developments, the rollout has been postponed indefinitely. The brand is now expected to make its regional debut closer to Q4, subject to further updates.