We all know that the 2020 Defender isn't really like an old Defender, don't we? This is not going to be a commercial vehicle for rural types to ferry around livestock. Just in case the message hasn't got through, the latest Land Rover release ought to do it: the car is at the Consumers Electronics Show in Las Vegas, showing off its twin LTE modem connectivity. And the Pivi Pro infotainment. And Software-Over-The-Air update capabilities.
It's a thoroughly modern Millie of an off-roader, then, boasting what Land Rover is calling a world first in offering a dual-modem, dual eSIM design for the infotainment. Essentially it means doubling up the data capability of the system, meaning over-the-air software updates can take place seamlessly alongside music streaming and whatever else is required.
Making the most of this enhanced connectivity will be the latest 'Pivi Pro' infotainment screen, which Land Rover is promising "fast-responding and intuitive" behaviour from. Consider the dual modem and sim arrangement, says it maker, as like the two sides of a brain; one can be dealing with things like software updates for mapping and so on, while the other is managing the current song or podcast download. With its own battery, Pivi Pro should be able to respond immediately, as in accepting navigation requests on the 10-inch screen as soon as the driver has derriere on chair. Let's hope this is finally the case where JLR infotainment is as good as, or better than, the opposition.
Other points of note from this CES display include CloudCar, a cloud-based services platform that Jaguar Land Rover is also claiming it's the first to use. QR codes will enable streaming preferences to be recognised, so that your Spotify playlists can be accessible even if your phone isn't in the car. Moreover, and perhaps more relevantly, the technology will allow customers to pay for parking through apps like RingGo in the touchscreen. Still not impressed? Once the technology reaches other vehicles in the range, JLR customers will be able to "take their digital landscape with them" when swapping between vehicles in a multi-car household. Probably a good job then that the Defender does come with a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, including a 3D Surround Camera System, in case you get distracted...
Now we're in 2020, the Defender's spring debut isn't very far off at all. So for those who were happy that the hype had died down a little, prepare for it to return with a renewed vigour imminently. The twin LTE modem connectivity will just be the start...
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