In 1950 AWC system was improved: gearbox received additional lever in order to switch transmission between rear wheel drive and all-wheel drive modes. Customers could choose wheelbase length and body configuration. Land Rover became synonym or reliability and superb off-road capabilities.
Not only farmers had appreciated the practicality of the new SUV. First generation Land Rover was used as military light utility vehicle in several countries. Military experts have recognized the reliability and versatility of Land Rover. Delivery of these vehicles to the armed forces of foreign countries had become an important part of the company’s business.
In 1997 Land Rover Freelander was launched. More compact than Discovery, this sport utility vehicle became Europe’s best-selling four-wheel drive model. It was produced for 19 years, changing two generations.