• FREELANDER 8 combines a 460 kW plug-in hybrid powertrain, dual-motor AWD and serious off-road capability.
  • New five-seat version and AI Voice Assistant were revealed at the 2026 Chery International User Summit.
  • International rollout starts in the UAE in Q1 2027, with right-hand-drive markets to follow.

Chery is expanding its global presence with the international debut of the FREELANDER 8, a plug-in hybrid SUV developed through its partnership with JLR.

Unveiled in Abu Dhabi on 29 September 2026, the plug-in hybrid SUV introduces FREELANDER as a standalone brand jointly developed by the two companies. The collaboration combines design led by JLR with Chery’s vehicle technology and global supply network, with the Middle East serving as the starting point for the brand’s international roll-out.

More details of the FREELANDER 8 were revealed at FREELANDER Nightfall in Wuhu, China, on 19 October, held as part of the 2026 Chery International User Summit. The event included the first public appearance of the international five-seat version, joining the six-seat model and giving customers a choice of two- or three-row configurations.

The FREELANDER 8 demonstrates the collaboration between Chery and JLR through a powertrain and chassis developed to accommodate everyday driving, longer journeys and demanding terrain. In Middle East specification, it combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with a 34.12 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery and dual-motor all-wheel drive. Peak outputs reach 460 kW and 662 Nm, enabling acceleration from 0–100 km/h in 5.8 seconds.

An all-electric range of 110 km is complemented by a total range of 886 km with a full fuel tank and fully charged battery. Both figures are measured on the combined cycle, with actual range dependent on driving conditions and use. The battery supports 11 kW AC charging, while DC fast charging allows a 20–80% charge in 20 minutes or less.

Dual-chamber air suspension and continuously controlled damping allow the chassis to adapt to changing surfaces, balancing ride comfort with the clearance required on uneven ground. Ground clearance can reach 266 mm, while a virtual centre differential lock and an electronic limited-slip differential manage torque distribution to help maintain traction when grip is limited.

The Intelligent All-Terrain System brings the powertrain and chassis controls together through nine modes. These comprise seven terrain programmes, including Sand Mode, alongside Smart and Expert modes. Under the relevant test conditions, the FREELANDER 8 can climb a 70% gradient, equivalent to approximately 35 degrees, and wade through water up to 900 mm deep, subject to its operating limits and appropriate conditions.

Inside, a Qualcomm SA8295P automotive-grade processor powers the cabin’s digital systems, which include a 46.3-inch Mini LED far-side screen. L2+ driver-assistance technology is fitted as standard, while FREELANDER has also announced an AI Voice Assistant powered by a large language model and developed specifically for the brand to enable more natural interaction with the vehicle.

More than 30 driver-assistance functions are fitted as standard, while automated valet parking will also be available in selected markets, subject to the system’s operating conditions and the driver’s responsibilities.

The development programme included more than 1,000 test vehicles, with over 200 dedicated to all-terrain durability testing covering 2.15 million kilometres.

FREELANDER’s international introduction will proceed in three stages. The first begins in the UAE, where the FREELANDER 8 is expected to launch in the first quarter of 2027, before expanding across the Middle East and other left-hand drive markets.

Right-hand drive markets will follow in the second phase, with Australia and New Zealand identified as the priorities. The third phase will extend the brand into continental Europe, followed by the United Kingdom and Ireland. South African availability has not been confirmed.

Figures and specifications apply to the Middle East model and may vary by market and trim level.

ENDS//