Addition of a hybrid option for the baby Defender indicates that the shift to electric may take longer in certain markets
Launching smaller, more road-oriented versions of popular Range Rover and Discovery SUVs has turned out to be a successful strategy for Land Rover. Some relevant examples include Range Rover EvoqueRange Rover Sport, Range Rover Velar and Discovery Sport. Working on the same approach, the baby Defender was conceptualized.
As per the original plan, the baby Defender was to be offered in only BEV format. It was to be built on the electric-only EMA architecture. However, with the latest official inputs, it has been confirmed that the baby Defender will also be getting a full hybrid option. To accommodate the hybrid powertrain, the electric-only EMA architecture is being reworked.
Baby Defender hybrid – What to expect?
Specific details about the hybrid setup for the baby Defender have not been revealed. However, it is known that it will be a full hybrid setup and not a PHEV (plug-in hybrid) or mild hybrid. The decision to add a full hybrid option with the baby Defender is likely based on evolving consumer preferences. The US is one of the key markets for Land Rover, where demand for BEVs appears to have cooled down.
In comparison, demand for full hybrids has increased in the USA. Full hybrids are being preferred for multiple reasons such as better fuel economy and absence of range anxiety and charging hassles. Incentives for BEVs have also been removed, making hybrids a more accessible option in the USA. Moreover, it is estimated that full electrification in markets like the USA can take decades.
Hybrids are essentially the middle path that many people are now being drawn to. By offering both BEV and full hybrid versions of the baby Defender, a larger segment of potential buyers can be targeted. However, there could be some challenges, as the original electric-only EMA architecture is being reworked to accommodate the full hybrid setup. This will require additional time, funds and resources.
Even the BEV version of the baby Defender faced some challenges in combining 4×4 capabilities with its electric underpinnings. Defender boss Mark Cameron explained that wheel articulation is impacted due to the floor mounted battery pack. This is applicable when the vehicle is negotiating rough terrain. With Defender’s upright and boxy profile, the increased wind resistance has an adverse impact on the overall range. Such issues won’t be there with the strong hybrid version of the baby Defender.
EMA architecture debut
Test mules of the baby Defender BEV version have been spotted multiple times. However, the baby Defender will not be the first Land Rover model to be launched with the EMA architecture. This will be used first with a Range Rover model, which could be the new Velar. The next Evoque is also expected to get the EMA architecture.
As per the new gameplan, Range Rover, Defender and Discovery models will be using various powertrains such as mild-hybrid, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully-electric options. In comparison, Jaguar models will remain committed to achieving a fully electric portfolio. As part of this plan, Jaguar is working on the Type 01 sedan. This 4-door luxury grand tourer with 1,000+ hp output is expected to debut later this year.
To boost its presence in the US market, JLR has also partnered with Stellantis for new products and technologies. Considering the preference for trucks in the US market, a pickup based on the Defender could be a possibility. A large rugged SUV could also be under consideration. With the Stellantis deal, the new JLR model for the USA could actually be using a Stellantis platform.
