A few months after its public reveal, the Freelander 8 has entered a new phase. The Chery-JLR partnership has now released the First Edition EREV, the opening chapter for a model carrying a name familiar to many sport utility vehicle buyers.
The return of the Freelander badge follows a strategy that appears focused on both domestic and international markets. According to the published information, the Freelander 8 is a large mid-size SUV and became the first vehicle introduced under the revived brand. Following its presentation at the end of April, the model has now reached its official market debut. Deliveries begin with the First Edition variant, which recently made its first public appearance in China.
Battery-electric driving plays a major role in the package. A 60-kWh battery allows the Freelander 8 First Edition to travel up to 137 miles, or 221 km, before the gasoline-powered range extender starts working. At first glance, the figure might appear modest. Then again, this vehicle targets demanding terrain rather than aerodynamic efficiency.
A comparison mentioned in the published material highlights the point. The Jeep Recon recently received certification for 222 miles, or 357 km, despite carrying a much larger 100.5-kWh battery pack. The Freelander approaches the problem from a different direction.
Electric energy support comes from a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine rated at 115 kW, equivalent to 154 horsepower. The engine does not send power directly to the wheels. Instead, its role centers on supplying energy to the lithium-ion battery. CATL participated in developing the battery system, which supports 6C charging. Peak charging power reaches 350 kW, while an 800-volt electrical architecture helps reduce charging times.
And there is more beneath the bodywork. The Freelander 8 remains focused on off-road use, with three separate locking differentials managing traction. The front axle employs a mechanical differential. The rear receives an electronic limited-slip differential, known as an e-LSD. A virtual center lock completes the setup.
Control of these systems falls to the Huawei-powered i-ATS intelligent all-terrain platform. Integration with the Huawei Qiankun Intelligent Driving ADS 5 system allows road-condition analysis and passing-strategy planning within milliseconds.
Buyers selecting the First Edition receive a limited-edition badge and a choice of three exterior colors: Hot Lemon, Radiant Silver, and Twilight Purple. Chery-JLR also plans Pro, Max, and Max+ versions. Pricing has not yet been announced, although the company indicated a target market segment around 300,000 yuan, equivalent to $44,395.
For now, the First Edition serves as the introduction. The broader Freelander 8 range will follow behind it.
