Land Rover's new electric Defender may quickly lose its eco-friendly credentials (2 photos)
New compact Land Rover Defender Sport is being tested on the roads
JLR continues road testing of a new compact electric SUV, which has received the internal designation Defender Sport. This model should replace the outdated Discovery Sport and debut in 2027.
Technical features and platform
The new SUV will be on the EMA electric platform, which will also form the basis of the upcoming electric version of the Range Rover Evoque. Characteristic signs of the electric nature of the car are a deaf radiator grille and the absence of exhaust pipes.
Potential strategy changes
With demand for electric vehicles in key markets weaker than expected, JLR may reconsider its plans. There is a possibility that the EMA platform will be adapted for hybrid powertrains. 
Global automotive trends
Other manufacturers have already responded to changing market conditions. Fiat has brought back a hybrid version of the 500e, while Porsche has confirmed plans to launch hybrid versions of its 718 models and cancelled a fully electric version of its SUV.
“We see that the race to full electrification has slowed down a bit. The demand for hybrids has been a surprise. We are working to bring more hybrid models to the market.”
While JLR has not officially commented on possible changes to the EMA platform, the company has already stated a more cautious approach to electrification compared to its original plans.
In today’s environment, carmakers are forced to be flexible in their strategies. Demand for hybrid technology continues to grow, which may force even electrification advocates like JLR to reconsider their priorities. The success of the original Defender showed that the company knows how to make the right market decisions, so their next steps will be particularly interesting for observers.
