Land Rover to celebrate 70 years at Goodwood

Visitors to Goodwood Festival of Speed will be treated to a feast of Land Rovers

Land Rover takes to the famous Goodwood hillclimb with a special selection of 70 Land Rovers at this year’s Festival of Speed from 12-15 July, 2018. Spanning all Land Rover models, and with eye catching special editions and conversions the anniversary parade celebrates 70 decades of ‘Above and Beyond’ adventures and public service.

‘Huey’ HUE166, the first pre-production Land Rover prototype, will lead the procession followed by a cast of iconic Land Rovers including Series I, II, IIA and III, Defender, the four generations of Range Rover, the five generations of Discovery, Freelanders, Range Rover Sports, Discovery Sports, Evoques and Velars that bring the family up to date.

There will also be a selection of military, first response rescue vehicles and expedition vehicles that recall some of the greatest adventures in Land Rover history including Bob and Joe Ives’ winning Camel Trophy 110, and the millionth Discovery which was driven from Solihull to Beijing on the ‘Journey of Discovery’ expedition in 2012.

Also on ‘the hill’ is the Defender Works V8 which will be gearing up twice daily in the ‘First Glance’ batch and a staggering Guinness World Record attempt by stunt-driver Terry Grant. Terry will drive the Range Rover Sport SVR aiming to achieve the ‘Fastest Mile on Two Wheels’ title.     

Land Rover will sit alongside Jaguar once again this year in the exhibition area of the Goodwood grounds in its biggest format ever. All of the latest Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles will be on display including showpieces from the ‘Special Vehicles’ division to include the pinnacle of the Range Rover family; the Range Rover SV Coupe.

Visitors to the Festival will have the chance to get involved in the action too – experiencing Land Rover’s legendary off-road capabilities first-hand on a gravity defying obstacle course, whilst youngsters can join in the fun driving mini electric Defenders.

Showgoers will also have the opportunity to meet and hear some of Land Rover’s ambassadors: Explorers Sir Ranulph Fiennes and Kenton Cool, rugby legends David Flatman, Martin Johnson and Jason Robinson, and stunt driver Terry Grant will be regaling the crowd with tales of their own Land Rover adventures.

And if the nostalgia of 70 years of Land Rover isn’t quite enough, Jaguar Land Rover has teamed-up with Top Trumps to reinvent the 80’s icon for today’s fans.  Jaguar Land Rover is introducing an exclusive digital Top Trumps App for Goodwood Festival of Speed visitors. The app is available for iOS & Android and is a digital version of the game.  Players will be able to play against each other and also compete with other players for a ranking on a live leader-board. Prizes include a trip for two to the Ice Drive Academy in Sweden including flights, tuition and luxury accommodation. Second place wins a year’s membership of a David Lloyd Club for two, while third wins £200 to spend in the Jaguar Land Rover boutique. Goodwood FoS visitors can download the App to claim their limited edition Top Trumps card game from the Jaguar Land Rover stand.

Tickets for the event are available from the Goodwood website.

What3words and Land Rover work to save lives

Land Rover works with British technology company to address location issues

One of the difficulties with living on an island is knowing how to get to the more remote properties, especially in a hurry. Sat navs are fine, but they may not recognise the more remote places – and that could prove life-threatening in an emergency.

What3words gets around that by giving every 3m x 3m square on Earth a unique 'address' made up of three words. We mentioned it in our August 2016 issue, praising the idea and now Land Rover has teamed up with Dr Brian Prendergast on the Isle of Mull to give all 2000 residences a plaque with their unique address.

The three-word addresses will help Dr Prendergast and his colleagues to respond to emergency call-outs more quickly and accurately, as well as improving everyday healthcare on Mull. Without detailed local knowledge of the island, it can be difficult for new members of his team to find individual homes where postcodes cover large areas and there may be no formal street names.

“Using three-word addresses will vastly improve the ability of doctors and nurses, particularly those new to the island, to locate and assist remote-living patients. We believe it will not only help us deliver a better routine healthcare service, but will save vital minutes in emergency call-outs that could literally save a life. The island is really grateful to what3words and Land Rover for putting Mull on the map.”

— DR BRIAN PRENDERGAST, TOBERMORY & SALEN SURGERIES

“At Jaguar Land Rover we are passionate about the impact technology can make when combined with the talent of our people. Addressing Mull by Land Rover is the ideal way to launch our global humanitarian partnership with what3words, which has the potential to transform isolated communities around the world by making them more accessible. We have more than 40 active social impact projects that could benefit, so this is just the beginning of what we can achieve together as we explore exciting opportunities for the future.”

— CHRIS THORP, RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS DIRECTOR, JAGUAR LAND ROVER

Find your own what3words address using the map on the company's website.

New Landmark edition for Discovery Sport

Land Rover's fastest-selling model gets special edition

The Discovery Sport has made record-breaking sales in 2017 – selling more in a single year than any other model in the company's 70 year history. And Land Rover has launched a Landmark special edition to celebrate.

Powered by the 177bhp (180PS) TD4 Ingenium engine, the Landmark features unique colour and trim combination. It'll be available in Narvik Black, Corris Grey and Yulong White, and all will have a Carpathian Grey contrast roof.

The exterior will be finished with a 'sporty and dynamic' front bumper, with Graphite Atlas exterior accents and 19in Style 521 ‘Mantis’ wheels in Gloss Dark Grey.

The interior features Ebony grained leather seats and an Ebony headliner, complemented by dark grey aluminium finishers around the centre stack, a panoramic roof, MeridianTM sound system and heated steering wheel.

Like all of the other engines in the range, the 180PS engine is fitted with a particulate filter. The efficient, close-coupled filter is neatly integrated into the after treatment system and traps soot as the exhaust gas passes through it, making the engine cleaner.

The Landmark Discovery Sport starts at £40,400 on the road and is available now.

For more info, check out the Land Rover website.

New life for rusty Discovery

Forward control makeover gives rusty Discovery new life

Everyone knows how badly the body on a Discovery 1 rots, but the chassis and mechanicals seem to last forever. So, how about re-purposing the chassis, giving it a forward control driving position and a massive loadbed? That's what Rotodama have done with their Rediscovery.

The cab is a tubular-framed design and all the panels - including the glass - are flat for ease of replacement and are inset to reduce the likelihood of damage. The loadbed is a significant 12 foot x 6 foot and has a 1000kg payload.

With loads of mechanically-sound Discoverys languishing in farmyards, this could just be the conversion to breathe new life into them.

Click here to visit the Rotodama website

The ALRC National needs you!

The ALRC National Rally needs marshals to help it run smoothly

The ALRC National Rally takes place at Stainby Quarry, Lincolnshire, over the late May bank holiday weekend, 26-28 May, 2018.

Marshals are needed to help the competitions run smoothly.

The competitions are:

• Saturday, 26 May: CCV and Tyro trials
• Sunday, 27 May: RTV trial and Team Recovery
• Monday, 28 May: Comp Safari

If you're able to help, drop Jon Aldridge an email: jonaldridge@yahoo.co.uk

For more information about the ALRC National Rally 2018, click here

Land Rover celebrates 70 years

Global online broadcast to mark 70th anniversary of Land Rover's unveiling on 30 April 1948

Land Rover will mark its 70th anniversary with a global broadcast celebrating the world's favourite 4x4s and the people who love them.

Starring the cars and the people who make and drive them, the online programme will pay tribute to seven decades of adventure, humanitarian aid and hard work across classes and cultures around the world.

The broadcast is at 20:00 BST on Monday 30 April – 70 years to the day since the first Land Rover made its debut at the Amsterdam Motor Show. It will tell how Land Rover began as a utility model at the end of the Second World War and grew to become the world’s favourite 4x4, with more than 7 million sold.

Viewers can expect great models from the past as well as inspirational people behind the legend and a look to the future, with a level of insight only available direct from the factory.

Prof Dr Ralf Speth, Jaguar Land Rover CEO, said: 'Land Rover was born with the launch of a single vehicle. Today our family of SUVs is testament to the pioneering spirit of innovation that has characterised Land Rover for seven decades. Our family of Defender, Discovery and Range Rover models provides unrivalled capability, versatility and luxury, giving us the perfect foundation for another 70 years of success.

'Land Rover is so much more than just the most capable all-terrain vehicles. It connects people through a passion for adventure and making more of our world. From our employees to customers and enthusiasts, this is the family that makes Land Rover special.'

A vehicle line-up including HUE: the first prototype Land Rover, the original two-door Range Rover and the seven-seater Discovery, as well as expedition-proven models from across the decades, will share the stage at the Land Rover Classic Works in Coventry. The current range, including the sector-defining Range Rover Evoque and Velar SUVs, will also be on screen as Land Rover celebrates its lifelong status as a favourite among celebrities, politicians and royalty.

The year of 70th celebrations has already begun and one of the vehicles from the start of the story will star in the show. In January, Land Rover revealed plans to sympathetically renovate the world’s most historically significant unrestored model – one of three pre-production cars from the original Amsterdam motor show launch on 30th April 1948.

Now in the hands of the experts at Land Rover Classic, it will take the stage alongside its closest modern relative – the exclusive 405PS Defender Works V8 revealed earlier this year. Only 150 of the powerful 70th edition models will be produced and each of the specially engineered V8 derivatives will be built under the same roof, by Land Rover Classic’s team of expert engineers.

Land Rover to celebrate World Land Rover Day on 30 April

Land Rover announces 70th anniversary celebrations with world's most remote Defender outline

After 70 years of all-terrain adventures and global expeditions, Land Rover has once again taken the Defender to new heights.

Stretching over 250 metres, the most remote Defender outline was imprinted some 2700m up on the side of a mountain in the French Alps y snow artist Simon Beck. The unique snow art was created to announce World Land Rover Day on 30 April, exactly 70 years since the original Land Rover was first shown to the world at the 1948 Amsterdam Motor Show.

The unique image is a tribute to the moment when the engineering director of Rover, Maurice Wilks, first sketched the shape for the original Land Rover in the sand of Red Wharf Bay and proposed the idea to his brother Spencer, Rover's managing director.  The forward-thinking design was christened the 'Land Rover', the outline of which we now recognise as the Defender.

To watch the broadcast and take part in the celebrations, go to www.youtube.com/landrover at 20:00 BST on 30 April and use the hashtag #LandRover70Years

Sand blasting: Saxon Express event report

LRO Editor Neil Watterson takes on the military off-road at Bovington

Ten miles in an hour. Doesn’t sound much, does it? After all, if Sir Roger Bannister had continued running at the speed he broke the four-minute mile barrier, he’d have covered fifteen miles in sixty minutes. But you try covering ten miles following a specified unmarked route, cross country in an almost featureless landscape, spotting and recording the letters stuck on 100mm squares. Welcome to the world of 4x4 navigation events.

We’re at the driver training area at Bovington, Dorset, home to the British Army’s Armour Centre, where soldiers are taught to drive and maintain armoured fighting vehicles. The terrain needs to be punishing to give the service personnel the skills they need; it’s harsh on tanks and even harsher on light 4x4s like Land Rovers.

We’re competing in Saxon Express, an event run by the British Army Motorsports Association (BAMA) that will challenge both driver and navigator. And I’d go as far to say that the Bovington site offers the best combination of tricky navigation and driving – vast expanses of similar-looking terrain makes it easy to get disorientated, and the power-sapping sand coupled with very cut-up surface means you can’t go too fast, or too slowly.

Run as military exercises in which civilians can compete, all you need is a 4x4, light recovery kit and a navigator, then away you go. The event is made up of different phases, each designed to test driver and navigator, and for this event there are six.

We kick off with a scatter. We’re set off at minute intervals and the start marshal hands us a map with twenty locations plotted on it. It’s simple enough, visit as many of the locations in any order in the time allowed and record the letter we find in the appropriate box. Sean, my son who is navigating for me, and I are veterans of this sort of event, so are competing in the Expert class – we have to deduce a couple of the locations from the clues given. Our aim is to record all twenty code boards; Novice and Beginner crews have to reach fewer locations.

We clear it, getting into the time control in time (you pick up one penalty for missing a board, two for each minute late – so it’s often better to cut-and-run if you’re close to your time) and it’s onto the trial sections.

Trials are driving a route determined by pairs of canes – called ‘gates’. The further you get along the section without ceasing forwards motion the lower the penalties you score. The aim is to clear it.

The sections are set up by members of the Dorset Land Rover Club and are, in my opinion, just the right difficulty. Soft and slushy sand saps power, but go too fast and you’ll understeer into a cane. We clear the first section, but can’t quite get the traction to get through the 1 gate on the second section. The third section starts with a deep watersplash before climbing a steep concrete ramp. Traction isn’t an issue there, but it is when we face the soft, powdery sand towards the end of the section – at least the mound yields when I bash our Defender 90’s bumper into it.

Next up is an orienteering section. The locations have to be visited in sequential order and marshals are positioned to check compliance. You mark the scorecards with the punches, so you can’t note a letter down for later…

I used to marshal BAMA events in the early 1990s and it would be relentless competition. These days you have to take into account driving hours regulations, so there’s an enforced lunch break. Everyone is back in, except Royal Navy’s Rory and Andrew in their Series IIA Land Rover. They’ve broken down, so we tow them off the area to sort a fix (it turned out to be the distributor had jumped out of engagement).

A gymkhana awaits after lunch – an autotest around cones and into garages, but not against the clock – then the Gunnery phase.

This sort of phase is becoming a mainstay of BAMA navigation events, where the venue is large enough. You’re given a distance and bearing. You have to plot it on the map from the firing position, visit the location, record the board and return for the next one. ‘Targets’ at 1km are worth three points, 750m two and 500m just one point. We opt for the high-scoring ones, but despite double-checking our plotting, we can’t find the first, nor the second target, so we go for a closer one, but can’t find that either. We know we’re in the right place, but we can’t find the boards.

We decide to try one more but are informed the phase has been cancelled as the targets are in the wrong places. I’ve competed in some motorsports where crews would be haranguing the organisers about this sort of mistake, but that isn’t the case today. In the real world mistakes happen and it’s how we deal with them that shows us as we are. It’s easy for crews to fall out when things don’t go to plan; Sean and I are just happy we hadn’t lost the plot…

The temperature has plummeted. Snow is falling and water that’s thrown up by the wheels is freezing on contact with the Defender’s bodywork, but there’s no let-up for us, or the hardy marshals braving the bitter winds and keeping the event on track.

We face a multi-format phase. Beginners are given sheets with the routes marked, experts get a variety of instructions, from traces to be marked onto maps to grid co-ordinates and tulip diagrams. Both the driving and navigation are hard and we’re up to the site speed limit of 30mph as much as possible to cover the miles. Speed cameras are used to enforce limits and they could be wielded by personnel wearing ‘crinkly green’, so the first you’d know about a speed trap is when you’re flagged down. And a 10-point penalty would spoil your day if you’re after the win.

We have to cut-and-run the end of the final section and check in at the time control ten seconds within our allocated time. Phew.

So, how did we do? Well, penalty scores range from 17 points to 85 points, with some of the novice teams doing exceptionally well. As for Sean and I, we've taken first overall/first expert. With crews competing from all over the UK – including a Scottish crew who made the nine-hour drive to the south coast of England the day before – it was a tough competition.

Interested in having a go yourself? The next event is Magnum Spirit at Millbrook Proving Ground, Bedfordshire, on Sunday 3 June 2018, and BAMA runs other similar events throughout the year across the country. See you there!

Changes at the top at Land Rover

Moves in the management at Land Rover suggest change is on its way

While Geneva’s Cointrin Airport was bustling with winter sports enthusiasts heading for their late season resorts, over the road at the Palexpo venue for the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS18), members of the motoring media were wondering whether Jaguar Land Rover was also heading for a slippery slope, writes Mike Gould.

This followed the re-location of the company’s stand into a desolate corner next to owners, Tata Motors, and a lacklustre press conference debuting the Range Rover SV Coupé and the Jaguar I-PACE electric car.

The event was previewed by the surprise announcement that Felix Bräutigam would become Chief Marketing Officer, effectively absorbing the responsibilities of Andy Goss, who as Sales Operations Director had been presiding over a rapid rise in Jaguar and Land Rover demand. Goss, would be leaving to ‘pursue new challenges in the automotive business’ – shorthand for not wanting to stick around in the new organisation.

Anyone wondering why the JLR event seemed so downbeat was given another reason for the gloom when, just over a week later, it was reported that Special Vehicle Operations MD, John Edwards, was also on his way to be replaced by Michael van der Sande joining the company from the Renault sports car division, Alpine.

Edwards’ departure marks another step in the demise of former Rover Group and Land Rover staff to be replaced by European car men (Bräutigam is German, van der Sande, Dutch) and poses the question as to who might be next.

There are fears it could be Land Rover’s Chief Design Office, Gerry McGovern. Recently awarded the prestigious Designer of the Year Award at the 33rd Festival Automobile International, Land Rover could be seen as too small a showcase for McGovern’s prodigious talent. Insiders also report that his ambitious design themes for the brand are being tamed by more cautious members of the board. His proposals for the Discovery and Discovery Sport were rumoured to be much more radical than the designs that eventually went into production while the motoring press certainly expected something more of the Range Rover SV Coupé.

Following the success of the LRX-derived Evoque, motor manufacturers would be queuing up to grab McGovern but he certainly has enough cachet to open his own studio, perhaps taking with him some of Land Rover’s best creative talent.  If these fears are real, they could certainly explain McGovern’s uncharacteristically hesitant performance at Geneva.

All this comes against the background that JLR is, despite a 6.5% increase in sales for 2017, a minnow when compared with other manufacturers. While JLR garnered 621,000 customers in 2017, rival specialist BMW flagged over two million and the Fiat Chrysler group double that. JLR’s biggest weapon in its armoury is its distinctive British design. If that edge is lost, then it’s going to be a world as cold and as hard as the mountains framing Geneva for the UK’s flagship motor manufacturer.

Sport SVR sets Tianmen Road record

Range Rover Sport SVR beats record held by Ferrari for the 11.3km ascent

We all talked about how un-sporty the first-generation Range Rover Sport was. Supercharged petrol engine aside, the performance was more runabout than hot hatch. But since those early days, the vehicle has become sportier.

Come the second generation L494, though, and things have gone even further, with the SVR versions blurring the lines between sports car and off-roader.

Land Rover’s latest record attempt is on the 11.3km Tianmen Road, China; the road that leads to the steps up to Heaven’s Gate, which a hybrid Sport PHEV successfully climbed.

The benchmark set by a Ferrari 458 Italia in 2016, was 10 minutes 31 seconds (an average of 40.06mph over the 99-corner road) was smashed by test driver Ho-Pin Tung in the 567BHP/516lb ft SVR, covering the route in 9 minutes 51 seconds, averaging 42.77mph.

Driver Ho-Pin Tung said: ‘I am used to the high speeds of racing but these 99 turns were something unique. Maintaining concentration was the biggest challenge as the road twists and turns constantly, with huge drop-offs to the side. The consequences of getting it wrong would have been really serious so I focused on establishing a rhythm and the Range Rover Sport SVR made this easy – it may be an SUV but it has the performance and agility of a supercar and can take you to places a supercar can only dream of.’

More info

Range Rover Sport SVR Tech Spec

• Engine: 5.0-litre V8 supercharged
• Power: 567BHP
• Torque: 516lb ft
• 0-60mph: 4.3 seconds
• Max speed: 176mph
• Combined mpg: 22.1mpg

Range Rover SV Coupé revealed

Land Rover launches 2-door SV Coupé at Geneva Motor Show

Land Rover has introduced its latest model at the Geneva motor show: the Range Rover SV Coupé. The world’s first two-door, full-size luxury SUV is based on a heavily modified L405 Range Rover (the only shared exterior parts are the bonnet, lower tailgate, lights and fuel flap). 

This four-seater brings the brand into super luxury coupé sector, competing with Rolls-Royce and Bentley – and with a price to reflect that: from £240,000. Only 999 SV Coupés, hand-assembled to customers’ specifications, will be produced next year at the SVO Technical Centre in Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Warwickshire.

A 565PS and 700Nm 5.0-litre supercharged V8 powers the new two-door Range Rover. Coupled with the ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, the Coupé will make the 0-60mph sprint in 5.0sec and have a top speed of 165mph – faster than any standard Range Rover.

The colour palette extends to 100 shades with finishes in gloss or matt, on top of ‘match to sample’ hues. The Liquesence paint option brings a ‘liquid metal’ finish while the Contour Graphic offers a contrasting tint to the flanks, from the side vents back. New wheel designs are offered in 21, 22 and 23 inches – the latter being a first on a production Range Rover.

Mega luxury and delicate craftsmanship are evident in the two-tone cabin. The 20-way front and 10-way electrically adjustable rear graduated diamond quilt seats may be specified in different colours. 

There are new wood finishes, such as fused walnut and sycamore or palisander on the steering wheel, door casings, centre console, instrument panel and loadspace floor, reminiscent of the L322 Ultimate Edition Range Rover.

Bespoke headrest embroidery, door handles and treadplates, engraving and semi-precious metal badging will be offered. The 1700-watt, 23-speaker, sound system features Trifield 3D ‘concert sound’ technology.

Alterations to the chassis include an 8mm lower stance (the suspension automatically lowers by 15mm above 65mph). The Range Rover retains its world-class 900mm maximum wading depth. The Terrain Response 2 is kept, too, along with the Active Locking Rear Differential.

Land Rover offers a five-year Care Package, covering services including brake replacement. Range Rover SV Coupé sale will start in the fourth quarter of 2018. You can register your interest at landrover.com

Range Rover SV Coupé Tech Spec

• Engine: Supercharged 4999cc V8 petrol
• Max power: 458bhp
• Max torque: 516lb ft.
• 0-60mph: 5.0 seconds
• Top speed: 165mph
• Gearbox: 8-speed ZF automatic with 2-speed transfer box
• Brakes: 380mm front, 365mm rear
• Length: 5013 mm
• Width: 2220mm
• Height: 1794mm
• Fording depth: 900mm
• Approach angle at off-road height: 31°
• Breakover angle at off-road height: 26.5°
• Departure angle at off- road height: 25°
• Ground clearance: 263mm
• Wheels: 21, 22 or 23-inch with new dark grey and silver polished alloys
• Tyres: 275/45 R21, 275/40 R22 or 275/40 R23
• Price: from £240,000

The Britpart Workshop

Land Rover Explore smartphone launched

£599 rugged Android smartphone that's as tough as a Land Rover

Where would we be without our mobile phones? Even the most tech-unfriendly will have a phone of some kind or other (probably a Nokia 3310…), but most of us now have smartphones. And Land Rover has launched a smartphone with a battery life to rival that of the old Nokia: the Land Rover Explore.

Capable of running for two days of typical use, and able to double that with the Adventure Pack, the £599 Land Rover Explore is a rugged full-HD Android mobile phone with a five-inch screen.

It’s drop-tested to 1.8 metres and can survive underwater and cope with extreme temperatures, humidity, thermal shock and vibration exposure - watch the video

The screen is bright enough to use in full sunlight and can be controlled with gloves or wet fingers. It’s also fully compatible with all Land Rover in-car apps.

The phone will be available to order from 26 April 2018. For more details and to register an interest, check out the website

Land Rover Explore outdoor phone specifications

• Huge battery (4000mAh) plus add-on battery pack
• IP68 splash, water and dust resistance
• Drop-proof to 1.8 metres with factory-fitted screen protector
• Premium grade, detailed off-road topographical mapping options from ViewRanger with Augmented Reality Skyline feature
  • In-box premium off-road mapping voucher, giving a choice of country-wide or custom region topographical maps in many markets.
• Customisable outdoor dashboard to access to the most important weather information, sensor data, and on-device tools for your activity: eg weather, wind, tides, compass, SOS light
• Android Nougat OS, with scheduled upgrade to Oreo
• 4GB RAM and 64GB ROM, expandable via microSD
• Deca-core 2.6GHz 64 bit MTK Helio X27 chipset with dual SIM functionality
• 16MP rear camera, 8MP front camera, 4x digital zoom
• Bright five-inch FHD display, Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protected, optimised for outdoor use
  • Touchscreen can be controlled with gloves on or with wet fingers
  • Night red filter mode reduces screen glare, preserving natural vision in low light and at night
• LTE Cat 6
• Curated apps and content catalogue relevant to outdoor pursuits

Adventure Pack specification

• 3600mAh additional battery
• 25 x 25mm ceramic patch GPS antenna
• TPU protective case
• Stainless steel carabiner with canvas strap
• IP68 and 1.8-metre drop tested

Bike Pack specification

• Bike mount and case for both stem and handlebar
• Tilt to adjust viewing angle or change device orientation

Battery Pack specification

• Ultimate battery performance, additional 4,370 mAh of battery capacity
• IP68 and 1.8-metre drop tested

Range Rover Sport PHEV climbs to Heaven’s Gate

As far as publicity stunts go, driving a Range Rover Sport up one of China’s most famous landmarks is quite a feat.

The showroom-standard Sport, a P400e plug-in hybrid (PHEV), started its run from
the bottom of the legendary seven-mile-long Tianmen Mountain Road – known as the Dragon Road thanks to its twists and turns – in Hunan Province, before attempting the epic final ascent to the Heaven’s Gate natural rock arch.

Powered by a combination of the 296bhp 2.0-litre Ingenium petrol engine and 85kW electric motor, the Sport effortlessly conquered the phenomenal 999-step, 45º stairway.

Driver Ho-Pin Tung said: ‘I’ve won at Le Mans, but this was one of the most demanding driving challenges I’ve faced.’   

Off-Roaders: which one is really king of the hill?

Everybody knows that the Land Rover Defender is the best 4x4, and that makes it the best classic off-roader of them all. Doesn’t it? Well, sort of. If you’re using your off-roader to go mud-plugging and staying off the roads, it’s certainly up there.

But in reality, most classic off-roaders are still very firmly on the Queen’s Highway. And that opens up a whole new criterion for judging greatness. And as wonderfully classless as the Defender is, relaxing you on the M25 on the way to the Bromley Pageant is not among its greatest talents.

So, here are the best seven classic off-roaders – for enjoying on the road.

Range Rover SV Coupé on way

Range Rover SV Coupé set for debut at Geneva Motor Show

Another limited-edition Land Rover is about to hit the streets, but the company isn't giving much away at the moment.

The Range Rover SV Coupé will be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show and 'no more than 999 examples' will be offered worldwide. Each vehicle will be hand-assembled by Special Vehicles Operations at Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Warwickshire.

It will be a 'celebration of the Range Rover bloodline, with a dramatic two-door silhouette which alludes to its unique heritage, while being thoroughly modern and contemporary.'

Gerry McGovern, Land Rover chief design officer said: 'The Range Rover SV Coupé is a highly compelling design with peerless refinement and uncompromised sophistication from its breathtaking exterior proportions to its sumptuous, beautifully appointed, interior. This is a vehicle that will resonate on an emotional level.'

The SV Coupé will be revealed on 6 March 2018, when full details will be available. If you'd like to register an interest for one of these limited edition models, contact your local dealer - find them here.

New signage guides the way in Slaley Forest

Improved access information will keep everyone on the right track in Slaley Forest, Northumberland.

Forestry Commission, working in collaboration with Northumbria Police, Northumberland County Council, Green Lane Association, Northumbria Trail Riders Fellowship and the local community, have improved access information so that everyone can enjoy the forest safely.  Slaley forest welcomes a variety of users from walkers, cyclists and horse riders to trail riders and greenlaners. The new signage clearly explains which routes through the forest are legally open to all traffic.

Alex MacLennan, Recreation & Public Affairs Manager for Forestry Commission for the North East has been leading the project and explains:

'Forestry Commission welcomes everyone to the public forest estate. Slaley is a popular location for trail bike riders and 4x4 drivers and part of managing this site with multiple users is to ensure that the public byways are clearly marked so everyone can maximise their enjoyment of this special forest, whilst at the same time staying on the right side of the law.'

Neighbourhood Inspector Pam Bridges said: 'Northumbria Police is delighted to support this collaborative initiative. Police will continue to work with local agencies and individuals to ensure this area is available for visitors to enjoy.'

Northumbria Trail Riders Fellowship welcomes all responsible trail riders who are looking to learn where they can ride in the area, and have been a key contributor and partner in this project. Greg Villalobos, Chairman Northumbria TRF, said:

'All the riders at Northumbria Trail Riders Fellowship are proud to have been part of this initiative. We value the Green Road network in the north east and understand that Slaley Forest is an important and sensitive part of that. We believe that with a respectful approach all users can use the byways open to all traffic and that having clear signage, that doesn't discriminate against any particular user group, helps send out a positive message about where vehicles can and can't access.'

An equal contributor to the partnership has been the Green Lane Association (GLASS), who promote the responsible use of public byways. Darren Clark, Northumberland Area rep for GLASS, adds:

'The Green Lane Association (GLASS) is proud to support and work with the Forestry Commission in promoting the responsible use of our public byways. These new signs should make it easier for all users to access the forest legally. We believe everyone has a part to play in preserving this sensitive area of the northeast for all to enjoy.'

LRO welcomes this great initiative. The new signage makes it clear where it is legal to drive our and it also informs other forest users that there may be vehicles around. Read the signs, stick to the byways and follow the green lane code.

High-performance upgrades from Land Rover Classic

Land Rover Classic to offer high performance upgrades

A select number of high-performance upgrades inspired by the Defender Works V8 70th Edition will soon be available for owners of more standard Land Rover Defenders to purchase.

The options will include power upgrades for the TDCi engine, together with fast-road suspension and braking kits.

Land Rover was always reluctant to offer Defender owners power upgrades, but relented a little with the Autobiography and Adventure editions, boosting power from the standard 120bhp to 148bhp; a noticeable increase.

More information will be available from Land Rover Classic in due course.

JLR unleashes 400bhp Defender Works V8

400bhp V8 Defender created for Land Rover’s 70th anniversary

There’s nothing quite like a V8 engine. And there’s nothing quite like a Defender. So, fusing the two together to create a special 70th anniversary edition is the stuff of dreams – and that’s what Land Rover Classic are doing with the 70th Edition.

These aren’t ‘new’ Defenders, though. Like the company’s Reborn restorations, the Defender Works V8 will be re-engineered vehicles, completely rebuilt and fitted with JLR’s 5.0-litre 400bhp naturally aspirated V8 engine, coupled to an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission. That'll give a 90 exceptional performance, propelling it from 0-60mph in 5.6 seconds.

Up to 150 units will be built, and the starting price is a cool £150,000 for 90 models. 110 models will also be available.

So, what do you get for your money? Well, you’ll get a fully rebuilt and re-engineered Defender with the V8 engine and eight-speed gearbox, complete with pistol shifter. The two-speed transfer box is fitted with a torque-biasing centre differential, while the front and rear diffs are heavy-duty.

Brakes are beefed up too, with 335mm front and 300mm rear discs and four-pot cylinders front and rear. These push the standard wheel size up to 18-inch, and the diamond-turned Sawtooth alloys are shod with 265/85 R18 BF Goodrich All-Terrain KO2 tyres. A handling kit including front and rear anti-roll bars is also fitted.

The exterior is finished off with rear LED stop/tail and indicators, and Nolden LED headlights, as fitted to the Defender Celebration models in 2015.

Inside, full Windsor Leather interior trim covers the dashboard, door panels, headlining and Recaro Sports seats. In car entertainment is brought to you by Land Rover Classic’s own Classic Infotainment System.

Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover Classic Director, said: ‘It’s fitting that we’ve been able to release the full potential of the iconic Defender, whose much-loved shape remains synonymous with Land Rover, 70 years since it was seen in public for the first time.

‘The idea of reintroducing a V8 Defender was something we were discussing as far back as 2014, when we were still building the Defender in Solihull. We knew the demand was there for a powerful and fast Defender; the Land Rover authenticity is the ultimate finishing touch for discerning clients purchasing these collector’s edition Defenders.’

We’d heard the rumours of the V8 special editions, before the launch of the Celebration Editions, and were a little disappointed not to see a V8 model among them. At least that has now been addressed and the 70th Edition will be available in the UK, and MENA (Middle East and North Africa) markets on a personal import basis. European market availability is also on an individual import basis, subject to rules on importation of vehicle conversions.

Interested? Drop Land Rover Classic a line at: info@classic.landrover.co.uk or visit Land Rover Classic

Land Rover Defender Works V8 – 70th Edition Tech Spec

• Engine: 4999cc V8 naturally-aspirated petrol (EU5)
• Max power: 400bhp@ 6000rpm
• Max torque: 380lb ft @ 5000rpm
• 0-60mph: 5.6 seconds (90 station wagon)
• Top Speed: 106mph (limited)
• Gearbox: 8-speed ZF automatic, 2-speed transfer box with torque-biasing centre diff
• Brakes: 335mm front, 300mm rear. 4-piston calipers
• Wheels: 18-inch diamond-turned Sawtooth alloy
• Tyres: 265/65 R18 BF Goodrich All-Terrain KO2
• Price: from £150,000 (Defender 90)

JLR Classic to restore pre-production Land Rover L07

Pre-production Land Rover L07, shown at Amsterdam launch, set for sympathetic restoration.

The Land Rover, chassis number L07, was one of three Land Rovers at the Amsterdam Motor Show in 1948, when the world got its first sight of the vehicle we all love.

One of 48 pre-production vehicles, it was presumed lost in the 1980s when research was done to track down the remaining examples – and its fate only came to light in 2016, when a garage owner was told about a couple of old Land Rovers in a garden. They were about to be scrapped, but the garage owner realised what it was and secured both vehicles – you can read the story of how it was found in the Spring 2016 issue of Land Rover Owner International.

The Land Rover was built as a left hand drive model, hence the L prefix in the chassis number, but was subsequently converted to right hand drive and has also been recorded as R07.

Given its significance, Jaguar Land Rover Classic was obviously interested, bought the Land Rover and its experts spent months researching the company archives to unravel its ownership history and confirm its provenance.

JLR Classic will sympathetically restore it at the Classic Works facility in Ryton, Warwickshire as part of the company’s 70th anniversary celebrations.

Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover Classic Director, said: ‘This Land Rover is an irreplaceable piece of world automotive history and is as historically important as ‘Huey’, the first pre-production Land Rover. Beginning its sympathetic restoration here at Classic Works, where we can ensure it’s put back together precisely as it’s meant to be, is a fitting way to start Land Rover’s 70th anniversary year.

‘There is something charming about the fact that exactly 70 years ago this vehicle would have been undergoing its final adjustments before being prepared for the 1948 Amsterdam Motor Show launch – where the world first saw the shape that’s now immediately recognised as a Land Rover.’

Previous owners of this historic vehicle are being invited to Jaguar Land Rover’s Classic Works facility to share their experiences and to witness its loving restoration.

Want to see the restoration progressing? A three hour tour of the Classic Works costs £49 and not only do you get to see the Series Land Rovers being Reborn, you also get to peek into the massive vault where up to 500 classic Land Rovers and Jaguars are stored. For more info, click here.