Freelander is aiming to open with about 25 Australian dealers when it launches in 2027, with major capital cities in its plans. The new network could include existing Chery retailers as well as dealers representing premium marques such as JLR, but it will operate separately from those brands. No retailers have been appointed and the company has not specified a launch date within 2027.
The brand’s Australia and New Zealand head, Kym Mellow, is establishing a local team and seeking a Melbourne headquarters. Recruitment is under way for four senior positions covering aftersales, marketing, sales and dealer-network strategy. Freelander plans to appoint an aftersales manager early to help shape the customer experience before vehicles arrive. JLR, which owns the Freelander brand and leads its design work, will not run the Australian operation.
The Freelander 8 large SUV is expected to lead the launch. Its international specification, presented to media in China, includes a 2.0-litre four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain and five- or six-seat layouts; Australian specifications and prices have not been announced. Freelander expects to draw on Chery’s parts and vehicle-distribution systems, although authorised servicing arrangements and warranty terms in Australia remain undecided. The vehicles are built at the Chery Jaguar Land Rover plant in Changshu, China.