The Land Rover Defender is a (relatively) no frills, rugged SUV with go-anywhere capabilities that few can match. This also means that it makes an ideal commercial vehicle. Think Mahindra Bolero, but kicked up a few notches. Internationally, some Land Rover models have been available for commercial use in the past, and the new Defender Hard Top is the latest addition to that lineup. The name harks back to 1950 when Land Rover introduced detachable Hard Tops for added security and as protection from the elements
Michael van der Sande, Managing Director, Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations, said: “We will maximise the functionality and usability of the new Defender’s cargo area, with tough materials and clever storage solutions to ensure it surpasses the capability of any previous Defender Hard Top.”
The Defender Hard Top will be identical to the standard models underneath the body, getting the same coil spring set up as standard and optional air suspension on the five-door 110 model. The Defender has a towing capacity of up to 3500kg, ground clearance of 291mm and approach, breakover and departure angles of up to 38, 28 and 40 degrees respectively. All of these should make the Defender Hard Top a very capable vehicle, should your business need you to travel off the beaten path. If your business also involves crossing small rivers, the 900mm wading depth will help you in that regard. The Defender Hard Top gets almost all other goodies that the standard car gets, including Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment system, the Terrain Response 2 system, ClearSight rear view mirror and all the safety kit included in the company’s Advanced Driver Assistance package. The Remote smartphone app will allow owners to get their Hard Top’s current location, fuel level and journey history remotely.
The Defender Hard Top will probably not make its way to India, since there isn’t really a market for premium commercial vehicles in the country. However, it will go on sale internationally later this year for approximately 12 per cent lower than a standard passenger Defender, making it good value considering the kit you get with it.