by New Compact Land Rover Defender Sport Being Tested on Roads
JLR continues road testing of the new compact electric SUV, which has received the internal designation Defender Sport. This model is set to replace the outdated Discovery Sport and debut in 2027.
Technical Features and Platform
The new SUV will be built on the EMA electric platform, which will also underpin the future electric version of the Range Rover Evoque. Characteristic signs of the car’s electric nature are the blank radiator grille and the absence of exhaust pipes.
Potential Strategy Changes
Due to lower-than-expected demand for electric vehicles in key markets, JLR may revise its plans. There is a possibility of adapting the EMA platform for hybrid powertrains.
Global Trends in the Automotive Industry
Other manufacturers have already responded to changing market conditions. Fiat has brought back the hybrid version of the 500e model, and Porsche has confirmed plans to release hybrid versions of the 718 models and canceled the fully electric version of its SUV.
“We see that the race for full electrification has slowed down somewhat. The demand for hybrids has been a surprise. We are working to offer the market more hybrid models”
Although JLR has not officially commented on possible changes regarding the EMA platform, the company has already stated a more cautious approach to electrification compared to initial plans.
In current conditions, automakers are forced to show flexibility in their strategies. Demand for hybrid technologies continues to grow, which may force even proponents of electrification like JLR to reconsider their priorities. The success of the original Defender showed that the company knows how to make the right market decisions, so their next steps will be particularly interesting for observers.
