The JLR-Chery JV in China, which assembles UK designed models for local sale, is to revive the Freelander nameplate.

Under a proposed new licensing agreement, the CJLR JV will produce a range of electric vehicles based on Chery’s EV architecture under the Freelander name.

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“The new model of collaboration leverages fully both parties’ complementary strengths with Chery holding a leading automotive market position in China while JLR has unrivalled heritage and design strength creating mutually beneficial prospects for the future,” a joint statement said.

“Freelander will become a brand reborn under licence from JLR.”

JLR CEO, Adrian Mardell, said: “We believe that working together to develop new models of collaboration for the world’s largest and fastest growing electric vehicle market, combined with the appeal of the Freelander brand, promises a very exciting future for CJLR.”

JLR built the Land Rover Freelander between 1997 and 2015 and it was replaced by the Discovery Sport in 2016.

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The CJLR 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 vehicles will be designed jointly by Chery and JLR and built at the JV’s existing factory in Changshu.

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