Land Rover Freelander Set for EV-Only Comeback in 2026; Will Be Exclusive To China

Land Rover is set to revive the Freelander nameplate after more than a decade, but in an all-new electric avatar. The announcement came through a joint statement by Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and its long-standing Chinese partner Chery Automobile, confirming that the Freelander will return as an EV-only model in 2026, produced exclusively in China for both domestic and international markets. While Land Rover has not yet confirmed global availability timelines, its increasing focus on India as a growth market makes the Freelander a likely candidate for future introduction. 

The new Freelander will be built at Chery’s Changshu manufacturing facility and will ride on an electric vehicle platform developed by Chery. The collaboration marks a deeper integration between the two companies under the existing CJLR joint venture, with both firms contributing design and engineering inputs. JLR will focus on brand alignment and global design cues, while Chery will take the lead on EV architecture, manufacturing, and initial market deployment.

Originally launched as a compact SUV in the late 1990s and discontinued globally in the mid-2010s, the Freelander was once one of Land Rover’s more accessible models. However, according to official communication, the new-generation Freelander is expected to be positioned above its predecessor. 

Though the companies have not released technical specifications or design previews, early indications suggest the new Freelander will feature a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, a driving range exceeding 600 km, and a suite of modern comfort, connectivity, and safety technologies consistent with Land Rover’s premium identity. 

The new Freelander will initially be launched in China, the world’s largest EV market, before being considered for other regions. This rollout strategy underscores the increasing importance of China as a hub for electric vehicle innovation, production, and early adoption. It also reflects the CJLR joint venture's growing capability to serve global markets with region-specific products.

The model will be sold under the Freelander sub-brand, distinct from the core Land Rover and Range Rover lines, though it will likely share certain design and branding elements. The modular platform used is expected to support multiple body styles or "top hats," tailored for different global markets and possibly under various brand labels depending on regional strategy.