FREELANDER will launch in Australia and New Zealand in 2027, bringing a new premium SUV brand developed by Chery and Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) into the local market.
The FREELANDER 8 will lead the Australian launch, combining JLR-led British design with Chery’s electrified vehicle technology. Australian specifications, pricing and the detailed launch schedule will be announced closer to arrival.
For fleet buyers and novated leasing customers, the announcement adds another brand to watch in the premium SUV market. However, the local powertrain offering, charging capabilities and ownership costs are yet to be confirmed.
Familiar name, new direction
FREELANDER is being established as a standalone brand, with vehicles produced by Chery Jaguar Land Rover, the companies’ 50:50 joint venture in China.
JLR licensed the FREELANDER name to the joint venture in June 2024. The new brand draws on JLR’s design and all-terrain heritage, while Chery contributes electric and hybrid technology, engineering and supply chain capabilities.
Production takes place at the joint venture’s Changshu plant in Jiangsu Province, which has also manufactured models including the Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque.
FREELANDER 8 leads the local launch
Measuring more than 5.1 metres in length, the FREELANDER 8 is positioned in the premium upper-large SUV segment. The model offers five- and six-seat configurations, although the Australian line-up remains subject to confirmation.
The brand is targeting buyers seeking a vehicle that can handle metropolitan travel, regional roads and gravel tracks while delivering premium comfort.
Kym Mellow, appointed Head of FREELANDER Australia & New Zealand, said the partnership brought complementary strengths to the new brand.
“FREELANDER brings together JLR’s British design and all-terrain heritage with the best of Chery’s technology, scale and supply chain,” Mellow said.
Mellow has previously held executive roles with Inchcape Australasia and Mazda Australia. His responsibilities include establishing the local business, product planning, sales, marketing, aftersales and dealer network development.
Dealer support takes shape
FREELANDER plans to enter Australia and New Zealand through established local dealerships, with appointments to be announced before launch.
The network strategy includes trained sales and service staff, parts support and aftersales coverage in metropolitan and selected regional locations.
For fleet operators considering a new entrant, the reach of that network will be an important part of the assessment, particularly where vehicles operate outside capital cities.
“We’re investing in the Dealer partnerships and local team to make every part of ownership live up to that promise,” Mellow said.
What fleet buyers need to know
The launch announcement establishes FREELANDER’s local ambitions, but fleet suitability will depend on the Australian product details.
Confirmed powertrains, energy consumption, range, charging requirements, safety equipment, warranty and servicing arrangements will help buyers assess where the FREELANDER 8 could fit within their vehicle policies.
For organisations considering electrified SUVs, those details will also be needed to compare whole-of-life costs and operational suitability with existing options.
Australia and New Zealand have been identified as priority right-hand-drive markets in FREELANDER’s international expansion. The brand plans to introduce six models globally over the next five years, potentially broadening its offering beyond the initial flagship SUV.
