Baby Defender

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【Summary】Land Rover is reportedly launching a "baby Defender" in 2027, which will be smaller and more compact than the current Defender model. It will be part of Land Rover's electric vehicle lineup, running on their new EMA platform. The new Defender model will have smaller batteries with higher energy density and will be capable of fast charging. This move is part of Land Rover's strategy to separate its core brands into distinct product lines.

FutureCar Staff Aug 17, 2023 12:28 AM PT

If you're a fan of the Land Rover Defender but find it a bit too big, there's good news for you. The British automaker has reportedly approved a "baby Defender" to join the product line in 2027, making it the fourth model alongside the 130, 100, and 90.

According to Autocar, the new Defender will be related to the next-generation Range Rover Evoque, Velar, and Discovery Sport. It will be built on Land Rover's new EMA electric vehicle-only platform and may be called the "Defender Sport," according to a source.

While the exact size is not yet known, Autocar suggests that the new Defender will be "much more compact in all dimensions" compared to the current combustion-powered version. However, since it will share its underpinnings with the smaller cars, it is estimated to be around 15 feet long, 6.5 feet wide, and 5.9 feet tall. The current full-size Defender is based on the same platform as the Discovery, and an electric variant is expected to be released around 2026 using the MLA architecture from the Range Rover.

EMA-based vehicles will feature 800V charging architecture, allowing for fast charging with a peak rate of 350kW, similar to other EVs on the market. The batteries will be supplied by Tata's new UK-based factory and will have significantly higher energy density than the current Jaguar I-Pace.

This means that the new Defender will have smaller batteries, creating more room for cabin occupants. It will also have a raised ride height, making it suitable for off-roading enthusiasts.

Autocar suggests that the introduction of a fourth Defender model is part of Jaguar Land Rover's plan to separate its four core brands into distinct product lines. This strategy, known as the "House of Brands," aims to position the Defender as a vehicle that embraces the impossible.