New Defender Concept - DC100

Last night Land Rover released preview pictures of the The Land Rover DC100 Concept, a modern interpretation of the iconic Land Rover Defender will make its debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. Land Rover also confirms, that production of a new Defender is intended for 2015.

Commenting on the Land Rover DC100 Concept car,Gerry McGovern, Director of Design, Land Roversaid: "Replacing the iconic Defender is one of the biggest challenges in the automotive design world; it is a car that inspires people worldwide. This isn't a production-ready concept but the beginning of a four-year journey to design a relevant Defender for the 21st century."

John Edwards, Global Brand Director, Land Roveradded: "Loved the world over for its simple, honest and distinctive design, we are determined that the new Defender will be true to its heritage, while meeting the requirements of a changing global market.  We plan to engage with existing and potential customers to help us finalise the details of the new vehicle. One thing's for sure, it's going to be an exciting journey, and we can't wait to get going."

I must admit my first reactions are not good.  I don't feel that this is an inspired design or particularly practical one.

For instance, I would have liked to see some sacrificial plastic wheel arches like the ones on this design -

I have to say I think if this is the model that makes it into production I may build an Ibex F8 instead!