How 4 x 4’s conquered the world- A few years ago SUVs were the vehicle everyone loved to hate and vehicles like the Land Rover tended to have a gas- guzzling reputation. They were the second largest cause of the global rise in carbon dioxide emissions.

Car manufacturers figured out how to make SUV’s almost as economical as regular cars.

In 1948 the first Land Rover was officially launched after a design was created in 1947 using the Jeep chassis and components. It was never intended to be a long-term production model, but a production vehicle to fill a need in post-war Britain for a tough vehicle with a power takeoff, that would be able to fill in as a tractor.

Series I was officially launched at the Amsterdam Motor Show. In 1958 Series II was launched and was the first to use the 2.25 litre petrol engine. A 109-inch Series II Station Wagon was introduced which technically could fit up to 12 people, qualifying as a “bus” by the taxman’s standards. This qualification allowed them to be exempt from the tax system on passenger vehicles.

This layout stayed very popular on the later models including the Defender variants.

So why are they so popular? For those who can buy one, the Range Rover stands for quality. The high driving position along with the space and reputation go a long way. The Land Rover is built to last. Original Land Rover Defenders are still being driven today. One carbon footprint expert claims that sticking with your older car is the best option for the planet.

On a scrapped Land Rover, very little will go to waste because there are so many old Land Rovers on the road and demand for recycled parts is high.

Land Rover have made some significant improvements. Not only are they reducing the amount of carbon produced when driven but also during the production process. Their newest production centre feature solar generators, significantly reducing its carbon footprint. By the end of the decade Jaguar and Land Rover will provide pure electric power, with 100% of Jaguar sales and 60% of Land Rover’s will be equipped with zero tailpipe powertrains.

By 2039, Jaguar Land Rover aims to achieve net zero carbon emissions across its supply chain, products, and operations. Development is underway preparing to adopt clean fuel-cell power in line with the maturing of the hydrogen economy.

If you ‘re on the hunt for a new car that’s safe, spacious, and perfect for all weather terrains no matter what the British winter throws at us a Land Rover may be just the car for you.