The ‘baby’ Defender is due for launch in 2027 and will be available as a bespoke EV alongside a converted ICE model
The Land Rover Defender ‘baby’ EV has finally been spotted with heavy camouflage. Note that there will be two electric Defenders on sale in the coming years – one will be a new EV based on an EMA (Electric Modular Architecture) platform, and an electric iteration of the existing Defender (in ICE guise). Clearly, the Tata Motors-owned British luxury auto giant wants to keep all options open for the customers.
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Land Rover Defender ‘Baby’ EV Spied
The EMA platform is the same which will underpin the Range Rover Velar and Evoque in their electric avatars. In terms of the dimensions, the Defender ‘baby’ EV will be around the same size as the Defender 90. This confirms that it will be smaller than the Defender 110 and Defender 130. Additionally, it might have either of two names – Defender 80 or Defender Sport.
Despite the heavy camo, one can trace the silhouette. The electric luxury SUV gets sharp and slim LED headlamps, raked windshield, upright bonnet, massive wheel arches, a rugged skid plate under the bumper an almost flat boot lid, roof-mounted rear spoiler, etc. While the design will bear distinctions in comparison to the regular Defender, the overall silhouette is unmistakably Defender.
Since the launch is still distant, we are unaware of the exact details regarding the specifications. Nevertheless, we can expect it to borrow the 800-volt tech. This will ensure brisk charging speeds to ensure short stops in between journeys. With a 350 kW DC fast charger, we can expect a charging time of around 18 minutes. The electric SUV will be manufactured at JLR’s Halewood plant on Merseyside in north-west England. Also, the batteries will come from the new Somerset facility.
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Learn Electric Cars Says
I must admit the Indian-owned British luxury auto giant is definitely late to the EV party. Most legacy carmakers have already commenced selling EVs in some form. Hence, it is no surprise that Range Rover has massive plans to offer an extensive EV portfolio. We will start witnessing the first Range Rover EV from next year. Let us keep an eye out for more details as and when they arrive.