Autocar has reported that the current Land Rover Defender models are expected to continue production until 2017, and possibly until 2020.
Autocar has reported that the current Land Rover Defender models are expected to continue production until 2017, and possibly until 2020.
This does not mean that the new DC100 concept has been scratched. Instead, the two Defender models are expected to run concurrently beginning in 2015, the projected launch date of the DC100. The details from Autocar are vague, but suggest that the new 2.2 liter engine found in the current Defender model will be able to meet the future Euro VI emission standards expected in 2015.
Additional information suggests that the Defender’s reclassification as a commercial vehicle will provide the truck with an exemption to the Euro VI mandate, a pedestrian emissions law.
It will be very interesting to examine sales figures between the current Defender and the DC100 in their overlapping years. Land Rover purists have trashed the DC100 since the first images of the vehicles were released online. However, if the DC100 outpaces the current Defender in sales, it will be harder for critics to blame the company for discontinuing its popular line. A wonderful opportunity awaits purists who wish to show their love of the Defender; purchase your beloved vehicle and help Rover outsell the DC100 – you have three whole years to save!
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