Introducing Land Rover's New Defender Baby EV | Carscoops

      Shorter, all-electric Defender variant built on JLR’s new EMA architecture

      Land Rover’s compact 2028 Defender EV has made its first appearance in prototype form.

      Scheduled for release in 2027, it may be named Defender 80 or Defender Sport.

      This SUV utilizes JLR’s EMA platform alongside the Evoque EV and will compete with Mercedes’ smaller G-wagon EV.

      JLR has temporarily halted deliveries to the US due to Donald Trump’s import tariffs, which could present challenges for the all-electric 2028 baby Defender EV that has been caught testing for the first time.

      To launch in 2027, this robust electric SUV is significantly smaller than the current Defender, which will also have its own EV version. While it retains some design elements, such as wide hips visible from the rear, flared fenders, a vertical tail, and a flat roof, it will bring a distinct look.

      Compared to the existing Defender, this prototype, similar in size to a Skoda Kodiaq, features a sportier windshield angle, narrower headlights, and a C-pillar that leans forward instead of standing straight. Underneath, it operates on JLR’s new EMA platform designed for various upcoming EVs, including the Evoque, Velar, and Discovery Sport.

      Thus far, the company has confirmed only those three models, but these images indicate that a Defender spinoff is also in development, which aligns with the Defender being JLR's strongest sub-brand.

      Equipped with 800-volt technology for rapid charging that potentially allows for 350 kW power for refuels in under 18 minutes, these models will be produced at JLR’s Halewood facility in Merseyside, northwest England, using batteries manufactured at its new Somerset plant several hours further south.

      Speculation suggests the baby Defender might be named Defender 80 or Defender Sport once it hits the market to take on Mercedes’ upcoming smaller G-wagon. The latter name seems logical since Land Rover has previously used the Sport suffix for a Discovery variant, making it easily recognizable for consumers, especially with this prototype's elevated waistline and angled C-pillar akin to the Discovery Sport.

      Regardless of its name, the smaller Defender is anticipated to debut in 2027 as a 2028 model, and it will likely be popular in the UK, where EVs are in high demand. However, unless the current US tariff situation changes, this baby Defender could carry a substantial price tag in American markets.