Land Rover delays electric Defender launch while announcing Dakar edition

Land Rover is delaying the launch of a fully electric version of its iconic Defender SUV. According to reports from The Times, the next generation of the model, which was expected within the next two years, is now not anticipated until at least the beginning of the next decade. This delay is attributed to the strong commercial success of the current model, which accounts for approximately one-third of Jaguar Land Rover's total sales, with roughly 110,000 units sold annually.

The transition to electric power requires a new platform, as the current architecture cannot support a fully electric drivetrain. Additionally, Jaguar Land Rover leadership is facing pressure to manage costs amid challenges such as US tariffs on vehicles manufactured in Slovakia.

In separate news, Land Rover has confirmed the limited production of the Defender Dakar, a road-legal version inspired by its Dakar Rally racing heritage. Based on the Defender Octa, the Dakar edition will feature a 4.4-liter bi-turbo V8 engine producing 635 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque. The vehicle includes specialized off-road enhancements such as Bilstein shock absorbers, increased ground clearance, and a unique 'Flight Mode' for landing control. Production is expected to begin in early 2027, with estimated prices exceeding 200,000 euros.