Freelander targets 25 dealers for 2027 Australian launch

Freelander is targeting around 25 dealers for its Australian launch in 2027, with existing Chery retailers and premium-brand dealers in the running.

Kym Mellow, the brand's head for Australia and New Zealand, told CarExpert the new network could include retailers representing JLR brands.

"I think we'll be looking at somewhere around 25," Mr Mellow said of the launch network, with plans to take into account major capital cities.

The previously announced Australian introduction of Freelander will be led by the Freelander 8 large SUV.

Mr Mellow reaffirmed the brand's plans for a local launch in 2027 but didn't offer any more specific launch timing, or identify any appointed dealers or locations.

Mr Mellow said enquiries had been coming in since Freelander announced its Australian plans.

"Lots of dealers have inquired about the opportunity to participate," he said. "It can be premium brands, like JLR, for instance."

"It'll be its own dealer network," Mr Mellow added.

Freelander has been jointly established by Chery and JLR, the latter of which owns the brand and leads its design work. Mr Mellow said, however, that JLR wouldn't be involved in running the Australian operation.

It's looking for a local headquarters in Melbourne, where Mr Mellow is building a separate local team. Recruitment is underway for four key roles.

"I'm employee number one, so Melbourne-based," he said.

Those roles include a national aftersales manager, with the other appointments covering marketing, sales, and network strategy. Mr Mellow said bringing in an aftersales manager early would help establish the customer experience before launch.

Freelander also expects to use Chery's existing parts and vehicle distribution infrastructure, rather than build those systems from scratch.

Australian servicing arrangements remain unclear, including which workshops will be authorised to work on Freelander vehicles. Mr Mellow also couldn't confirm warranty terms.

The Freelander 8's international specification was detailed to media in China.

The SUV was presented with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain and five- and six-seat configurations, but specific Australian specifications and pricing have yet to be announced.

Freelander vehicles are built at the Chery Jaguar Land Rover plant in Changshu, China. CarExpert has detailed the factory upgrade supporting the brand's global rollout.

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