Mumbai: Jaguar Land Rover, owned by Tata Motors, announced on Wednesday that it has signed a letter of intent with its Chinese joint venture partner, Chery, to license the Freelander brand for developing electric vehicles in China.
According to the proposed agreement, CJLR, a 50/50 joint venture between Jaguar Land Rover Ltd and Chery Automobile Company Ltd, will focus on producing a range of advanced electric vehicles using Cherys EV architecture exclusively under the Freelander name.
The Freelander, a Land Rover vehicle produced from 1997 to 2015, was replaced by the Discovery Sport in 2016.
In reborn CJLR form, Freelander will offer a range of mainstream electric vehicles, initially sold in China through a distinct network but over time destined for global export, the statement said.
The vehicles will be designed collaboratively by Chery and JLRs creative teams to establish a new position in Chinas rapidly expanding New Energy Vehicle (NEV) market. The products will be manufactured at CJLRs current facility in Changshu, the company added.
Commenting on the development, JLR CEO Adrian Mardell said, Today we are taking this important strategic step for JLR, one which underlines our ongoing commitment to China and complements our existing business in China.
He further said, We believe that working together to develop new models of collaboration for the worlds largest and fastest-growing electric vehicle market, combined with the appeal of the Freelander brand, promises a very exciting future for CJLR.
Chery Group Chairman Yin Tongyue stated that Chery and JLR are creating an innovative collaboration model that reflects their future growth trajectory.
The blend of Cherys advanced EV technology with the distinctive appeal of the Freelander brand will undoubtedly provide China and global consumers with a unique electric vehicle experience, Tongyue added.
The Freelander portfolio represents complementary growth, which is independent from both Cherys existing portfolio and JLRs modern luxury House of Brands, the statement said.
