Unique Tests Involve Tracking Lions and Transporting Supplies Across Rugged Terrain

The new Defender, slated for a world premiere in late 2019, underwent its final field tests in Kenya's Borana Wildlife Conservancy. These tests were conducted in cooperation with Tusk Trust, an African wildlife conservation organization for which Land Rover has served as an official partner for 15 years.

The prototype vehicle used for these tests featured a unique camouflage wrap and a specially developed snorkel-type air intake.



The 14,000-hectare Borana Wildlife Conservancy presents a challenging environment, including plains, rivers, deeply rutted tracks, steep rocky inclines, muddy riverbanks, and dense jungle. Here, the Tusk Trust wildlife management team conducted unprecedented tests, such as towing trailers laden with heavy supplies and tracking lions fitted with radio collars.

Renowned fine art photographer David Yarrow was also brought in for this field test. He captured images of the Defender prototype alongside African wildlife, including lions, whose numbers are alarmingly declining on the continent. These photographs will be used to support Tusk Trust's "Year of the Lion" charity campaign.