What's all this about?
With the all-new Land Rover Defender seeing unprecedented global demand, according to LR itself, now that its passenger versions are on sale, here comes the commercial model. And, borrowing a nameplate from the old Defender's illustrious history, they will be called the 90 Hard Top and 110 Hard Top.
Does it have a removable roof section, like the old 1950s Series Hard Tops?
No, not quite, although the roof and rear section of the vehicle mimics the appearance by being in contrast white. Anyway, it should be a comfortable and versatile vehicle in equal measure. Based on the same D7x body-on-frame architecture as the civilian models, the 90 and 110 Hard Tops also gain Electrical Vehicle Architecture (EVA 2.0) and Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment. This allows for smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as Software-Over-The-Air updates for the vehicle, both of which mean it will be a connected commercial vehicle that spends as little 'downtime' as possible in dealerships, allowing business owners to maximise its potential.
Inside, there are no second- or third-row seats in the Defender Hard Top models, although an optional front-row jump-seat means up to three people can travel onboard. It'll tow up to 3,500kg and has some impressive towing features to make hitching up, driving with and reversing a trailer easier. Ground clearance on both is 291mm and the wading depth is 900mm, while the 110 Hard Top has approach, breakover and departure angles of 38, 28 and 40 degrees respectively. The ClearSight rear-view mirror camera system will also preserve visibility behind the vehicle, no matter what is being carried in the back of the Hard Top.
Are there any more technical details as yet?
No, they're due to be released later in the year. Land Rover's Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) department is handling development of the Hard Tops and Nick Collins, Land Rover's vehicle line director, saidd: "The new Defender 90 and 110 Hard Top will be the toughest, most capable and most connected commercial 4x4s we have ever produced. They have been engineered to meet global safety standards and deliver impressive long-haul comfort, giving businesses and professionals the best of all worlds."
Matt Robinson - 30 Jun 2020
