The iconic Land Rover Defender, a symbol of off-road prowess for decades, is undergoing a historic transformation: electrification. While the Mercedes G-Class clings to its combustion engine roots, Land Rover is embracing a greener future for its legendary SUV.
Electrification Arrives Sooner Than Expected
Originally, whispers of an electric Defender surrounded the next generation model. However, Land Rover is accelerating its electric ambitions, with rumors suggesting an electric variant could arrive as early as the current generation’s mid-cycle refresh. This exciting development comes courtesy of our colleagues at AutoExpress.
A Platform for Future-Proofing
The key to this early electrification lies in Land Rover’s new MLA Flex platform. This versatile architecture can accommodate both traditional internal combustion engines and fully electric powertrains, future-proofing the Defender for the evolving automotive landscape. Importantly, AutoExpress assures us that this platform switch won’t drastically alter the Defender’s iconic design – the rugged good looks we know and love will remain.
Powering Through with Electric Performance
While full technical specifications remain under wraps, Land Rover insiders have hinted at the potential for a substantial battery pack. A 100 kWh battery is rumored, which could translate to a very impressive range of 480 kilometers (approximately 300 miles). This ensures the electric Defender retains its go-anywhere spirit, albeit with a quieter and cleaner conscience.
The Wait is On: Electric Defender Arrives in 2024
While details are still emerging, one thing is clear: the Land Rover Defender is embracing electric mobility. Patience is required, though, as we eagerly await the arrival of this groundbreaking model in 2024. The electric Defender promises to be a thrilling new chapter in the legendary SUV’s story, offering off-road capability with a sustainable twist.
