Land Rover Discovery Vision Concept debuts in New York
Land Rover’s Discovery Vision Concept, revealed at the 2014 New York Auto Show, previews the next-generation Discovery and showcases advanced off-road technology.
Land Rover pulled the covers off the Discovery Vision Concept at the 2014 New York Auto Show, giving the public its first look at the brand’s vision for the next-generation Discovery. The concept sets out the design and technology direction for the production model due later in the decade.
The Discovery Vision Concept stands apart from its predecessor with a more sculpted body, a clamshell bonnet and a pronounced C-pillar. The design draws on the latest Range Rover, most obviously in the slim LED headlights and taillights, but the Discovery’s proportions are more compact and less formal. Flush door handles and slimline wing mirrors add to the concept’s clean look.
Inside, the cabin is configured for five, with a focus on luxury materials and technology. The concept’s interior moves away from the utilitarian style of older Discoverys, instead using high-quality finishes and a more minimalist dashboard layout. While the show car is a five-seater, production versions are expected to retain the Discovery’s reputation for practicality and versatility.
Technology preview: transparent bonnet and remote driving
Land Rover used the New York debut to highlight two key technology concepts. The transparent bonnet system uses cameras to project an image of the ground beneath the front of the car onto a head-up display, giving the driver a virtual view through the bonnet. This is aimed at helping drivers place the wheels accurately in off-road conditions or when manoeuvring in tight spaces.
Remote control drive is another technology showcased on the concept. It enables the driver to move the vehicle at low speeds from outside, using a remote device. Land Rover says this could be useful for negotiating obstacles off-road or for precise positioning in challenging conditions.
Discovery family direction
The Discovery Vision Concept signals Land Rover’s intent to expand the Discovery nameplate into a family of vehicles. The concept’s platform is closely related to that of the current Range Rover, promising improved refinement and efficiency compared to the outgoing Discovery. Details of the production model’s powertrains and final specification were not released at New York, but the concept’s styling and technology are expected to influence the next Discovery and its derivatives.
Land Rover’s presentation in New York follows a series of concept and production reveals from other manufacturers at the show, including the updated Hyundai Equus and the BMW Concept X5 eDrive. The Discovery Vision Concept, however, stands out for its blend of off-road innovation and a clear move upmarket for the Discovery range.
The production version of the new Discovery was expected to arrive following the concept’s debut, marking a major change for the model line. For more on Land Rover’s future product plans, see Land Rover Freelander Gains Final Updates for 2015 Model Year.
