A test mule spotted at Jaguar Land Rover’s Nürburgring facility reveals the British company is developing a new electric SUV. The vehicle is disguised under a heavily modified Mazda CX-90 body, indicating it’s not a future Mazda model despite appearances.
Spy Mule Shows Major Structural Changes Beneath Mazda’s Skin
Photos of the mule reveal key details that differentiate it from a regular Mazda CX-90. The front end is completely covered, likely because it no longer requires the cooling system typical of combustion-engine cars. The body panels don’t fit perfectly, suggesting they are temporary and purely for camouflage.
The proportions differ noticeably from the CX-90, with a much longer front overhang and shorter wheelbase. The rear overhang is also reduced, and the battery pack is visible hanging low between the axles. These clues point to a more compact SUV, roughly 4.7 metres long, smaller than the CX-90.
Additionally, the wheels sit deeply inside the wheel arches, which hints the chassis underneath is entirely different. This confirms the mule’s body is just a disguise, while the actual electric platform and components are those of Jaguar Land Rover’s upcoming model.
New JLR Electric SUVs Are Under Development but Details Are Scarce
Jaguar Land Rover is already working on several new electric vehicles. The next Range Rover GT is nearly production-ready, and a second electric Defender model is planned on their EMA platform. It appears a third electric SUV is in early development stages, which this mule could represent.
There is no sign that Mazda is involved with JLR on this project. Mazda continues its EV efforts in partnership with Changan in China and has no known cooperation with Jaguar or Land Rover.
Using familiar bodies from other brands for development mules is common in the industry. It protects design secrets while allowing engineers to test new batteries, motors, and software on the road before the final shape is finalized.
So far, the mule’s Mazda camouflage points towards a smaller electric SUV in JLR’s future lineup, but there are no firm details on its exact market positioning, design, or technical specs. More information should emerge as testing progresses.
Source: motor.es