Huge level of demand sees Defender production extended

PRODUCTION of Land Rover’s legendary Defender 4×4 vehicle – which was due to end in December – will now be extended into 2016 to meet demand.

In January Land Rover announced a year of celebration to mark the final year of Defender production at its Solihull plant but high demand during its final year has now seen production extended.

The vehicles will continue to be produced at Lode Lane at least until February to meet a glut of orders.

And that is despite Defender production being ramped up this year to meet increased demand.

Last year 17,781 Defenders were produced at the Solihull plant.

Given the high demand for the vehicle observers may be wondering why it is being discontinued but the car’s design makes it difficult for it comply with EU emission rules and modern safety standards.

Land Rover launched three special edition Defender models in January to mark the vehicle’s final year.