Chery and Jaguar Land Rover have introduced five new exterior colours for the Freelander 8, expanding the SUV’s palette under the ‘Inspired by Nature’ design philosophy. This update comes as Chery continues to set export records and strengthen its global presence. The Freelander 8, a product of their joint venture, combines advanced electric and off-road technologies with premium design.
Freelander 8 Adds Five New Colours
The Chery-built Jaguar Land Rover Freelander 8 now offers five new exterior colours, each inspired by natural elements and crafted with advanced paint technologies. These join the previously revealed limited-edition shades: Hot Lemon, Twilight Purple, and Flowing Silver (Matte). The new options are designed to give buyers more ways to personalise their vehicles while reflecting the model’s nature-inspired ethos.
Technical Highlights and Features
The Freelander 8 is powered by a 1.5T internal combustion engine acting as a range extender, delivering 115 kW. Its 60.331 kWh battery, co-developed with CATL, enables a pure electric driving range of 221 km (~137 miles). The 800V high-voltage platform supports up to 6C charging, with a peak charging capacity of 350 kW.
On the technology front, the Freelander 8 is among the first globally to feature an 896-line LiDAR sensor and comes standard with the Huawei Qiankun ADS 5 intelligent driving assistance system. It is equipped with the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8397 automotive-grade chip and uses the i-ATS intelligent all-terrain system, developed in collaboration with Huawei. Traction is managed through three differential locks—front mechanical, rear electronic limited-slip, and a virtual centre lock—while a closed dual-chamber air suspension system optimises ride comfort and ground clearance.
Chery’s Export and Sales Momentum
Chery Group continues to post strong sales and export figures. In June 2026, the company sold 256,612 vehicles, marking a 9.8% year-on-year increase. Of these, 191,062 units were exported, representing a 79.7% year-on-year growth and breaking the record for monthly exports by a Chinese carmaker for the fourth consecutive month. This was also the first time Chery exceeded 190,000 monthly exports.
For the first half of 2026, Chery Group’s total sales reached 1,357,533 vehicles, up 7.7% compared to the same period last year. Chery has maintained its position as China’s top passenger-vehicle exporter for 23 consecutive years, with global sales of 2.6 million vehicles in 2024, a 38.4% year-on-year increase.
Competitor Comparison
The Freelander 8 enters a competitive segment, facing off against models like the Li Auto L8, Aito M7, and various BYD SUVs. The Li Auto L8 is positioned similarly in terms of size and technology, while the Aito M7 targets the premium tech-focused SUV market in the $44,000 (~AUD 63,743) range. BYD’s SUVs are also direct competitors, especially for buyers prioritising advanced features and electric range.
Why this matters
The Freelander 8’s new colour options and advanced technical features highlight the ongoing collaboration between Chery and Jaguar Land Rover, aiming to attract buyers seeking both style and substance. Chery’s record-breaking export numbers underscore the brand’s growing influence in the global automotive market, particularly as Chinese automakers expand their reach.
With its blend of electric range, off-road capability, and intelligent driving systems, the Freelander 8 is positioned to appeal to a broad range of customers in China and export markets.
What this means for buyers
Buyers interested in the Freelander 8 now have more exterior colour choices and can expect a vehicle equipped with leading-edge technology and strong electric performance. Those comparing options in the premium SUV segment should also consider direct competitors like the Li Auto L8, Aito M7, and BYD SUVs, especially in terms of price, range, and tech features. Regional availability is expected to expand as Chery continues its export push, making the Freelander 8 a model to watch for international buyers.
Related coverage from The Electric Viking
For more on the Freelander 8 and its development, see Freelander 8 Unveiled: Chery and Jaguar Land Rover Reveal First Official Photos and Chery-Built Freelander 8 Surfaces in Chinese Filings With 3,495 kg Weight, CATL Battery and Huawei Tech.
Key Specs
- Powertrain: 1.5T range extender, 115 kW
- Battery Capacity: 60.331 kWh
- Pure Electric Range: 221 km (~137 miles)
- Charging Platform: 800V, up to 6C charging
- Peak Charging Power: 350 kW
- LiDAR Sensor: 896-line
- Intelligent Driving System: Huawei Qiankun ADS 5
- All-Terrain System: i-ATS with three differential locks
Source
Images sourced from: autoblog.com, cnevpost.com
