Land Rover has hinted what its next Discovery range might look like with the Vision concept, unveiled at the New York motor show.
But the fifth-generation new Discovery won’t be confined to a single model with optional engines as it is now, but a new family of vehicles, the off-road specialist has confirmed.
Models sharing the Discovery nameplate and sitting under the large SUV are expected to include the replacement for the Freelander (see spy pictures with this story) and a more rough-and-tumble unit tuned for off-road work.
“It is apt that in the 25th anniversary year of the original Discovery that we preview how this evolution will take us forward into a daring new era,” said Land Rover Jaguar marketing chief Phil Popham.
“The future Discovery range is set to fundamentally enhance the way drivers around the world take on the adventure of modern life.”
Technology Land Rover will include in future models includes
- Remote Control Drive, where the driver can manoeuvre the car at very low speeds from outside it, perhaps while hooking it to a trailer
- Laser headlights which can move to track objects and stretch the vision beyond 300 metres
- Lasers front and rear that can project markings, symbols and imagery on to ground surfaces, including warning triangles
- A heads-up display that shows the ground immediately ahead
- Lasers that measure the depth of water before the SUV enters it
- Windows made of smart glass which control how much light is being let into the cabin
A touchscreen controls seat positions, folding them flat or forward or back. It can even convert the standard seven-seat layout into a six-seat, five-seat or even a four-seat ‘limousine’ mode.
Removable stroller-style luggage is integrated into the vehicle doors, and accessories for passengers are integrated into the seatbacks.
The one-piece tailgate hides a deployable step in the rear sill, and under the luggage area floor is a folding bench seat. “Social seating for active lifestyles, “ Land Rover calls sit.
Inside Vision concept’s cabin are two types of washable leather, along with wood veneer on the floors and instrument panel. Bespoke accessories lined in Harris Tweed “help to create a warm, uniquely British feeling of quality,” says the company.