Whitley, UK, 27 August 2015 ‑ LandRover has delivered a fleet of 450 vehicles to support Rugby World Cup 2015 as part of its role as Official Vehicle Partner for the Tournament.

A mixed fleet of specially liveried Discovery Sport, Discovery, Range Rover Sport and Range Rover models will provide transport for match officials, event support staff and VIPs for the duration of the 44‑day competition, covering an anticipated total of 650,000 miles ‑ enough to drive around the world 26 times.

To mark the hand‑over of the final vehicle and celebrate its support of the event, Land Rover created a unique installation using 450 Land Rover keys ‑ one for every vehicle on the fleet ­‑ suspended in the shape of a rugby ball.

Land Rover, Fleet and Business General Manager Jon Wackett said: "We are proud and excited to be supporting Rugby World Cup 2015 as the tournament returns to the UK. Discovery Sport is the perfect vehicle to lead the fleet as its compact dimensions, flexible 5+2 seating and advanced connectivity features provide versatility and capability in equal measure."

Land Rover Discovery Sport is the world's most capable and versatile compact SUV, combining premium design and technology with a range of fuel‑efficient petrol and diesel engines. The premium model is fitted with a host of advanced features, which will be put to good use during the event. They include Land Rover's intuitive InControl technologies, which allow occupants to display compatible smartphone apps on the vehicle's touchscreen. The versatile vehicle also features up to six USB sockets and four 12V charging points, so passengers can keep mobile devices topped up on the move.

The fleet of liveried Rugby World Cup 2015 vehicles will provide high profile support for the organisers across 13 stadia and all 41 bases being used by the 20 international teams talking part in the event.

Land Rover's unique installation features 450 Land Rover keys supplied by automotive electrical systems specialist Lear Corporation. The advanced devices are extensively tested to ensure they meet the most demanding requirements. The resilient fobs are capable of operating in extreme temperatures ranging from as low as ‑30 to as high as +60 degrees celsius. Splash and shock resistant cases also mean they can cope with the unique demands of active families.

With 920 players and 1,100 team staff set to take part in the tournament, Land Rover could accommodate all 2,020 participants in only 289 Discovery Sport models thanks the premium compact SUV's flexible 5+2 seating.

The Rugby World Cup 2015 will be watched by 2.3 million live spectators and attract a television audience of four billion in 200 countries around the globe, making it one of the biggest sporting events on the planet.

The Tournament begins on September 18 and the Final will be played at Twickenham on Saturday October 31.

ENDS