FREELANDER Marks a New Chapter at Its Global Brand Launch in Abu Dhabi, tell me about this news today
03-10-2026
The global brand launch event held at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi marks the official international revival of FREELANDER as a standalone, electrified premium brand.
Gulf NewsOriginally introduced by Land Rover in 1997, the Freelander nameplate has been reimagined through a joint venture between Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and Chery. Under this partnership, JLR oversees the brand identity and styling via a dedicated UK-led design hub, while Chery supplies the platform architecture, electric/intelligent technologies, and supply chain backing.
Just Auto+ 1Key highlights from the brand debut and news announcement:
Debut Model – FREELANDER 8: The brand’s first strategic production model is a mid-to-large electrified SUV aimed at blending British design aesthetics with smart, off-road capabilities.
Gulf NewsIntelligent Cockpit & Technology: The vehicle features Qualcomm’s SA8295P digital cockpit platform, highlighted by a 46.3-inch 8K Mini LED curved display, a 15.6-inch central touchscreen, Level 2+ driver assistance, and an app-controlled Super Intelligent Valet Parking (SIVP) system.
Gulf NewsAll-Terrain Hardware: Built around a hybrid all-wheel-drive powertrain, it includes dual-chamber air suspension and an Intelligent All-Terrain System (i-ATS) supporting nine driving modes, including a dedicated Sand Mode.
Gulf NewsMiddle East Focus & Regional Adaptation: Abu Dhabi was chosen as the starting point for FREELANDER’s international rollout. The car underwent extensive regional testing for sustained heat and dust, featuring a heavy-duty 45 cc air-conditioning compressor and region-specific software such as an integrated Qibla compass.
Gulf News+ 1Retail Network: Distribution in the UAE has officially been established through Al Tayer Motors (covering Dubai and the Northern Emirates) and Premier Motors (for Abu Dhabi), with expressions of interest now open.
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