While many automakers are diving headfirst into electrification, Land Rover is taking a more cautious approach with its iconic Defender.
Mercedes-Benz has already made the leap with its legendary G-Class, the Defender’s top competitor, so why isn’t a fully electric Defender planned for this generation? Here’s a look at the reasons behind this decision and what it means for the future of Land Rover’s off-road champion
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Current architecture: current Defender can’t be electrified
Since its launch in 2019, the L663-generation Land Rover Defender has won over off-road enthusiasts with its ruggedness and capabilities, even though it’s more commonly seen in urban settings than on winding trails. However, integrating an electric powertrain into this chassis presents a major challenge: space. According to Lennard Hoornik, Chief Commercial Officer of Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), the current D7x platform is not suitable for housing a battery and electric motor without compromising performance. The issue goes far beyond simply adding batteries. The Defender’s structure is designed to maximize off-road performance, particularly through the configuration of its axles and other mechanical components. Altering this balance to accommodate an electric drivetrain would require a complete overhaul—something that’s not on the horizon for the current generation.
An electric defender will have to wait for a new generation
Jaguar Land Rover has committed to offering electric models across all its ranges, including Range Rover, Discovery, Jaguar, and Defender. However, an electric Defender will have to wait for what Hoornik describes as a “significant step in evolution” for the model. In other words, it’s likely to require a next-generation release or a new dedicated platform to make this a reality. Land Rover has two options: develop a standalone electric Defender or wait until the next generation to integrate an electrified platform. The latter seems more likely but won’t happen until the next decade. Hybrid powertrains are currently driving sales, and this generation is so successful that it’s far from being discontinued anytime soon.
A thoughtful electrification strategy
While Land Rover takes its time with the Defender, the brand is actively working on other electric models. The electric Range Rover, for example, is on the verge of being unveiled, strengthening Land Rover’s presence in the premium electric vehicle market. The company’s strategy is to maintain the DNA of its models while meeting market demands for sustainable and high-performing options. For the Defender, known for its authenticity and toughness, sacrificing its off-road capabilities for the sake of marketing would be a mistake. Land Rover is choosing to wait until it can deliver a product that meets its high standards, even if it means letting competitors like the Mercedes-Benz electric G-Class get ahead. That said, whether the market’s excitement for electric off-roaders is as strong as predicted remains to be seen.
This article explores why an electric Land Rover Defender won’t be available in the current generation, the technical challenges of electrifying the model, and the brand’s strategy to integrate EVs while staying true to its DNA. With a forward-looking vision, Land Rover is ensuring that an electric Defender will honor its storied legacy.
Images: © Land Rover