Chery and JLR are pushing ahead with the revived Freelander brand, with new details emerging about the Freelander 8 plug-in hybrid SUV.

According to TimesLIVE, the Freelander 8 has been developed through the Chery Jaguar Land Rover joint venture and is positioned as a new electrified SUV for international markets.

The model forms part of a wider strategy first announced by JLR, which confirmed in 2024 that the Freelander name would be revived for a new portfolio of electrified vehicles based on Chery technology.

Freelander 8 Packs 460kW

TimesLIVE reports that the Freelander 8 combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with electric motors and all-wheel drive.

The plug-in hybrid system produces up to 460kW and 662Nm, with a claimed 0-100km/h time of 5.8 seconds.

The SUV is also expected to offer up to 110km of electric-only driving and a combined range of 886km.

According to TimesLIVE, the battery can be charged from 20% to 80% in about 20 minutes using a compatible DC fast charger.

Chery Technology Meets JLR Design

The Freelander project combines the strengths of both manufacturers.

JLR says the new Freelander range is based on Chery’s electrified architecture, while design work is being carried out collaboratively by Chery and JLR teams.

JLR’s 2026 annual report says Chery is bringing its electrification expertise to the project, while JLR is providing design expertise through a dedicated Shanghai design hub.

The original Freelander was produced between 1997 and 2015 before being succeeded by the Discovery Sport, according to JLR.

Freelander Brand Expands

Chery has already highlighted the new model as an important part of its electrified vehicle push.

In its September 2026 sales update, Chery said the Freelander 8 secured more than 5,000 firm orders within 12 hours of launch in China.

JLR says the revived Freelander portfolio is intended to expand beyond China over time.

According to TimesLIVE, South African availability for the Freelander 8 has not yet been confirmed.