Land Rover have revealed two concept cars for a future all new Land Rover Defender. Named DC100 and DC100 Sport, the two concepts showcase the direction and thinking behind the ongoing development of the go anywhere Land Rover Defender, due to be launched in 2015.
DC100 and DC100 Sport capture the flexibility, adaptability and configurability that have always been key attributes of Land Rover and continue in today's Defender.
DC100 demonstrates the future of Land Rover capability and versatility; DC100 Sport is an active expression of freedom and leisure.
Both concepts are based on the same lightweight platform. They feature sustainable hi‑tech materials and the very latest technology to optimise fuel and operational efficiency at all times, in all modes and in all driving conditions.
Used by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in its humanitarian work across the globe, Land Rover's technical capabilities are one of the organisation's vital assets to get rescue and aid where it is needed as swiftly as possible.
Goli Ameri, Under Secretary General for Humanitarian Values and Diplomacy, IFRC said: "The Red Cross is the largest humanitarian network in the world responding to emergencies and development challenges across the globe. It is vital that we reach people affected within hours of these emergencies providing them with life saving assistance and relief.
"We are often faced with difficult and hard to reach environments which we need to navigate in order to reach the most vulnerable. We look forward to working with Land Rover to help us meet the rigorous requirements for frontline humanitarian work."
Land Rover DC100 and DC100 Sport reveal a variety of technical capabilities including:
- Terrain‑i scanning device to warn of obstacles when off‑road
- Wade Aid sonar technology to assess water depth and advise optimum speed
- Driver‑activated spiked tyre system deployed at the touch of a button
- Permanent four‑wheel drive
- Eight‑speed transmission
- Intelligent Stop/Start
- Petrol and diesel engines with hybrid and plug‑in capabilities
- 'Always‑on' connectivity and telematics
- Built‑in induction charging stations throughout both concepts
World‑renowned explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes has used Land Rover vehicles, from the original 1948 model to the current Defender, in his many extraordinary expeditions and journeys. Speaking about the two concepts revealed today, he said: "I rely on Land Rover vehicles to get to ‑ and most importantly return from ‑ the places to which I travel in some of the world's most inaccessible places.
"Land Rover's commitment to a new Defender is welcome news indeed, made more so by the extraordinary levels of practical and helpful technology the concept versions demonstrate. These will be of enormous value to all explorers and adventurers wherever they wish to go."
Land Rover's 'Our Planet' programme emphasises the longstanding relationship that the company has forged with the natural world. A Land Rover has become an essential piece of equipment for anyone who operates in the most remote corners of the globe; explorers, conservationists, environmentalists, humanitarians and scientists.
Support of conservation projects includes partnership with the Born Free Foundation, Biosphere Expeditions, China Exploration & Research Society (CERS), Earthwatch Institute and the Royal Geographical Society.
Kathy Gill, Director of Biosphere Expeditions, said: "Land Rover Defenders are crucial to the running of our expeditions. They enable us to run expeditions to some of the most remote and inaccessible places on the planet, reducing our running and expedition costs by providing the ultimate expedition vehicle and sponsorship. Knowing that we have reliable and effective vehicles means that we are able to support scientists and conservation efforts all over the globe."
Please visit www.media.landrover.com or www.media.dc100.co.uk for further information and imagery.