S_w203
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Joined: 30 Sep 2006
Posts: 374
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 Posted: Tue Oct 03, 2006 7:24 pm Post subject: |
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New Six-Speed Automatic and Manual Transmissions
Both Freelander 2 engines are available with a sophisticated six-speed automatic transmission, while a six-speed manual is also available for the TD4 (diesel auto models become available from spring 2007).
They are both new transmissions specially developed for Land Rover's challenging blend of on-road and off-road driving, and deliver power to Freelander 2's unique full-time intelligent 4x4 driveline.
The Aisin Warner AWF21 six-speed automatic transmission is a light, compact unit that features a unique remote breather, deliberately routed above Land Rover's wade line (500 mm water depth). Seamless shift quality is ensured by a new fully integrated electronic Transmission Control Module. The module uses different gearchange maps, depending on whether the transmission is in full auto, sport or manual CommandShift mode, and when the vehicle is using one of the special Terrain Response programmes.
In sport mode, the auto transmission is programmed to hold low gears longer and to shift down more readily, to assist acceleration
CommandShift allows manual sequential gearchanging
When Terrain Response special programmes are engaged, different mappings are applicable, depending on the mode chosen. The Transmission Control Module also manages torque converter lock-up, which has different requirements depending on the selected Terrain Response mode
The six-speed manual gearbox, available only with the TD4 diesel, is a Getrag M66 unit, specially adapted for Land Rover use. It has a four-shaft design, and gear selection by twin cables, to ensure short, positive changes. The dual-mass flywheel carries a single-plate 250 mm (9.84 inch) hydraulically actuated clutch. The system is fully self-adjusting, to maintain constant pedal loads through the vehicle's life. |
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S_w203
Site Admin
Joined: 30 Sep 2006
Posts: 374
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| Posted: Tue Oct 03, 2006 7:25 pm Post subject: |
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DRIVING DYNAMICS
"The all-new Freelander 2 has been engineered to inspire driver confidence and passenger comfort over a wide variety of conditions and surfaces, from sporty on-road driving to off-road mud-plugging. Our goal was to create a driving experience that felt just as good to someone trading up from a conventional saloon as it did to an experienced 4x4 specialist." Mike Cross, chief engineer, vehicle integrity.
The Land Rover engineers' objectives for the driving dynamics of Freelander 2 were to combine on-road behaviour that is agile, predictable and refined, with class-leading off-road ability. Their comprehensive approach started with the design of the base suspension system, and was supplemented by innovative technologies such as an intelligent 4x4 system, Land Rover's patented Terrain Response, and sophisticated traction and stability systems. Key contributors to achieving excellent on-road performance were the new, fully independent suspension system coil-sprung struts front and rear and an exceptionally stiff body using front and rear sub-frames. Front and rear anti-roll bars provide excellent anti-roll control.
The responsive rack-and-pinion steering is direct and fluid, with just 2.6 turns lock-to-lock. Rigidly mounted to the front sub-frame to improve lateral stiffness, the steering is adjustable for reach and rake.
"The Freelander 2 is a revelation on-road," says Land Rover's chief engineer, vehicle integrity, Mike Cross. "Some sporty 4x4s are more firmly sprung, but where Freelander 2 really scores is in its mix of agility, responsiveness and ride comfort. It is never harsh, but is always a rewarding and predictable vehicle to drive hard."
On-road ride comfort has been a key consideration, and Freelander 2 surpasses many compact premium saloons let alone rival 4x4s due to its supple long-travel suspension, its excellent torsional body stiffness, its isolated (rubber-mounted) front and rear sub-frames, and its large-diameter gas damper struts.
Off-road it is a class-leader. Its capability starts with 210 mm (minimum) of ground clearance to overcome rocky, sandy, rutted or muddy terrain. This also helps
Freelander 2 to wade through water up to 500 mm deep better than most rivals. Approach and departure angles are also excellent.
Full-Time Intelligent 4x4 System
An innovative full-time intelligent 4x4 transmission is fundamental to delivering Freelander 2's class-leading breadth of capability. Its front-rear torque split varies continuously to suit dynamic conditions. Only a small amount of torque is fed to the rear wheels under normal conditions, such as on a straight tarmac road, but in tough off-road situations, almost all the engine torque can be fed to the rear wheels, if required. This is an ideal arrangement that always offers maximum grip in difficult conditions, yet minimises rear drive and therefore rotational losses and, in turn, fuel consumption when not required.
"The torque balance adapts continuously," says chief programme engineer Andrew Foster. "So, for example, if you encounter mud or snow on the road, torque distribution between front and rear can be adjusted, to give you optimal traction and primary safety at all times."
The intelligent 4x4 system has been developed in conjunction with Haldex, whose acclaimed centre-coupling technology continuously alters the front-rear torque split, normally through a hydraulically operated multi-plate wet clutch. However, Land Rover wanted an electronically controlled centre coupling linking the propshaft to the rear differential that could pre-engage at rest to reduce wheelspin from standing starts, engage quickly when traction loss was detected and disengage quickly without compromising stability control systems. The system also had to transmit the necessary torque to achieve Freelander 2's off-road traction demands.
The result is used exclusively on Freelander 2, and proactively engages full-time 4x4 rapidly and completely. A new high-pressure pre-charge pump charges the hydraulic system as soon as the engine is started, allowing for full-time 4x4 from rest. It also reduces the time taken to achieve full torque once wheel-slip has been detected within 15 degrees of wheel-slip rotation (compared with over 60 degrees of wheel-slip rotation with more conventional units).
The Freelander 2's Haldex unit is designed to allow up to 1500 Nm of torque transmission. An accumulator also speeds up the unit's response. Full torque transmission can be achieved in just 150 milliseconds. In effect, the new Haldex coupling gives the proactive engagement benefits of full-time 4x4 and the efficiency and fuel economy of an on-demand system. Representing the best of both worlds, it is ideal for a compact 4x4 such as Freelander 2. |
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S_w203
Site Admin
Joined: 30 Sep 2006
Posts: 374
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| Posted: Tue Oct 03, 2006 7:26 pm Post subject: |
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Large and Powerful Brakes
The Freelander 2 has large vented discs front and rear, providing stopping power comparable to that of a good compact sports saloon. The large front discs 316 mm on the petrol model, 300 mm on the diesel are 'reverse vented', so they draw cool air into the disc over the central bell, which is then vented out from the rim of the disc. This approach improves thermal stability under severe braking. Rear brake discs are also substantial 302 mm in diameter, for both diesel and petrol. The handbrake is a drum-in-disc device featuring two shoes per wheel. This achieves superior hill-hold performance compared with conventional disc-only systems.
The electronic modulator at the heart of the stability control systems on
Freelander 2 constantly monitors and, if necessary, adjusts both braking and engine traction to ensure the driver maintains control of each wheel. As well as reducing brake pressure, as in a conventional anti-lock (ABS) braking system, the modulator is designed to help generate positive hydraulic pressure to increase braking force in an emergency.
In addition to the latest-generation four-channel anti-lock brakes, the modulator also controls Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), which balances the distribution of braking force between front and rear, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), which boosts pedal pressure when full braking is required, and Corner Brake Control (CBC), which enhances rear-end stability when braking in corners. It also helps to control the Hill Descent Control, Electronic Traction Control and Dynamic Stability Control systems.
Roll Stability Control
Roll Stability Control is the most sophisticated roll-over prevention technology ever fitted to a Land Rover. Gyroscopic sensing allows this system linked to the electronic modulator to compare the rate of change of body roll angle with the steered course. If necessary, incremental brake force is applied at the outer wheels, widening the turn radius to help prevent the roll.
Gradient Release Control
Another innovation which makes its debut on Freelander 2 is Land Rover's patented Gradient Release Control system. Linked to the Hill Descent Control, this system ensures that, when releasing the brakes on extremely steep hills, brake-line pressure is released progressively, helping to maintain full driver control.
Wheels and Tyres
Freelander 2 is available with a wide variety of wheels and tyres, ranging from
16-inch to 19-inch diameter. All are specifically tuned to help deliver Land Rover's class-leading breadth of capability.
The wheels are all low-pressure die-cast aluminium, and rim width is wider than normal. All tyres are all-terrain rated, so they perform well both on-road and off. All run at 32 psi (2.2 bar), irrespective of size, load or speed, which simplifies life for the customer. The smallest tyre offered on the diesel only is a chunky 215/75R16 tyre, while the biggest aimed at those who want sports saloon levels of responsiveness on-road is a 235/55R19 (accessory fit only).
Towing Capability
Freelander 2's powerful engines, strong body and 4x4 transmission make it an ideal tow vehicle. The petrol automatic and diesel manual models are able to tow a 2000 kg braked trailer which is more than the vehicle's kerb weight making them suitable for most single horseboxes, medium-sized caravans and many boats. The diesel automatic can tow up to 1750 kg.
BODY
"Freelander 2's body is almost twice as stiff as some competitors'. This helps its on-road handling and refinement, its off-road toughness, and its all-round safety." Andrew Foster, chief programme engineer.
With over 28,000 Nm/degree of static stiffness, the Freelander 2 has one of the stiffest bodies of any car; it is almost twice as stiff as some competitors. Excellent stiffness provides the necessary basis for great ride and handling, because there is minimal flex during hard cornering or on rough roads. It also helps deliver excellent vehicle refinement and safety.
Freelander 2 uses a monocoque construction. Ultra-high-strength steel is used more extensively than in any previous Land Rover, in the door beams and for various strengthening reinforcements. DP600 dual-phase steel which requires special pressing because of its strength is used for the A-posts, lower sills, cantrails, front side members and dash to help provide a first-class, weight-efficient safety cell.
Many of the bolt-on components fitted during final assembly also help improve structural integrity. A fully integrated front-end structure not only carries the cooling pack and front bumper, but also substantially boosts the overall body stiffness. Even the bonnet-locking platform has been designed to help boost structural integrity, ensuring good load transfer from one front crash rail to the other.
A double bulkhead in the engine bay improves powertrain isolation and provides a clean area for components such as the ABS modulator, brake servo and wiper system.
Freelander 2 is marginally longer by 50 mm than the outgoing Freelander. Width is increased by 109 mm, and height is increased by 32 mm.
Safety
The Freelander 2's long list of primary safety features not least its responsive handling, strong brakes and 4x4 system helps the driver avoid hazards. The high 'command view' seating position provides visibility over traffic and a clearer view on rain-lashed roads.
Secondary safety starts with the strong monocoque body and its inner 'safety cell'. Front and rear crumple zones are designed to help absorb as much energy as possible during an impact. Side-impact protection is further assisted by the ultra-high-strength steel door beams, the strong and deep door sills (bigger on a 4x4 than on a conventional car) and the raised seat position. Other key features include strong facia cross-rails, which help minimise the risk of the A-pillars spreading during an impact, and the new Roll Stability Control system.
Front seat belts have pre-tensioners, and all Freelander 2 models feature seven airbags. The driver and passenger front airbags are designed to help provide head and chest protection and the front side airbags to protect against side impacts. Full-length curtain airbags in the roof side structure are designed to help protect against head injury and roll-over ejection for front and rear occupants. An inflatable knee bolster helps protect the driver against leg injury from the steering column.
Exterior Protection
Freelander 2 uses 100 per cent double-sided zinc-coated steel panels, as part of the most sophisticated anti-corrosion and paint treatment ever used on a Land Rover. An unlimited-mileage, three-year paint-surface warranty and six-year anti-corrosion warranty are provided with the vehicle.
As a true 4x4, Freelander 2 is designed to be able to brush off knocks and scuffs. Vulnerable areas of the car, including the sills and lower doors, are coated in a tough thermoplastic cladding. The cooling pack is protected by a strong thermoplastic undertray, while a structural steel undertray protects the engine. Bumpers are made from high-pressure injection-moulded mineral-reinforced polypropylene. They have excellent stability in very hot or cold conditions, and good scratch and impact resistance.
Jewel-Like and Effective Lamps
The wrap-around headlamps of Freelander 2 are handsome and rugged, and offer a choice of different technologies.
The standard halogen lamps have impact-resistant polycarbonate lenses, and offer a lifetime resistance to scratching (invaluable when off-roading). The lens is bonded to the lamp body to guarantee a watertight seal. The headlamp units have a
Gore-Tex membrane, which allows ventilation without letting in water, to help avoid condensation when wading. H7 halogen bulbs are also available, giving a light output closer to natural daylight.
Freelander 2 is also available with High Intensity Discharge (HID) projector lamps, creating crisp blue-white spectrum light. The bulbs are filled with a mixture of noble gases (including xenon). HID lights produce 200 per cent more light than a halogen unit while consuming only half as much electrical power. They also last up to 10 times longer. The HID system includes headlamp powerwash and automatic headlamp levelling, to ensure the optimum light pattern irrespective of vehicle load.
Optional Adaptive Front Lighting (AFS) is designed around the xenon units. The lamps swivel with the direction of travel, to help improve the driver's view of the road ahead.
Rear lamp units are chunky one-piece clusters, incorporating tail-lamps, brake lights, indicators and reversing lights. As with the headlamps, the design is jewel-like, an impression heightened by the high-gloss polymethyl methacrylate lenses, which also offer excellent scratch resistance.
Large Glass Areas
The generous areas of glass on Freelander 2 offer excellent all-round visibility. Front and side windows are wide and deep. An optional two-part panoramic sunroof increases the bright and airy feel of Freelander 2's cabin. The front section lifts and slides back over the second-row glass roof panel.
Large door mirrors (powerfold available) further improve the field of view. The front screen is available electrically heated, with rain-sensing wipers that work via infra-red technology, and heated washer jets.
INTERIOR DESIGN AND FEATURES
"The Freelander 2's cabin feels like that of a premium saloon car it's comfortable, attractive, well equipped and spacious." Geoff Upex, design director.
The interior of Freelander 2 is designed to be more elegant and simply structured than that of the outgoing Freelander, a decision made early on by Geoff Upex and lead interior designer Martin Buffery, who describe it as "strong but not intimidating". Yet the facia still incorporates clear elements of the iconic architectural vertical and horizontal lines that characterise the Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and Discovery 3.
"The whole interior has moved significantly upmarket," comments Geoff Upex. "Quality and craftsmanship are improved, with higher specification materials used throughout the cabin."
The upper part of the facia has a soft-touch finish to give a premium appearance and pleasant feel. Switch gear is purposeful and moves with precision. Regularly used controls, such as facia vents and major switchgear, are within easy reach and have a tactile finish. Upholstery and tufted carpets are high quality, while metallic and wood-effect finishes add further premium touches.
The instrumentation is clear and well displayed. The circular analogue gauges are framed with metallic bezels and are neatly grouped directly in front of the driver.
Spacious Interior
The elevated driving position in Freelander 2 called 'command view' by Land Rover improves visibility and helps the driver feel in control. It gives a much better vantage point than conventional saloon cars and even many other compact 4x4s (68 mm higher than one major competitor, for example).
'Stadium seating' places the rear seat passengers slightly higher than their front seat counterparts, so they too can enjoy the view. Visibility for all occupants is helped by the narrow front A-pillars, deep front and rear screens, and large side windows.
Although only 50 mm longer than the outgoing model, the all-new Freelander 2 effectively moves up a class in interior packaging compared with its predecessor.
"There is a real sense of space in Freelander 2," says Geoff Upex. "You can stretch out, relax, and it makes the whole ambience so much more enjoyable."
The vehicle's height and tall doors improve entry and egress compared with normal cars. The 'clean sill' system also helps keep mud and general road grime off occupants' clothes.
Comfortable Seats
Freelander 2's seats offer good under-thigh and back support, plus strong side bolsters to give excellent lateral support. The front seat frames are similar to those of Range Rover Sport big car seats for a cabin that looks as though it belongs in a big car. The upright seating provides a comfortable driving position and increases usable legroom.
A variety of seat fabrics and colourways are available, including leather on the top-of-the-range models.
Six-way adjustment is standard on all driver seats, including height adjustment to take advantage of the generous roofspace. The front passenger seat has four-way adjust. Electric power adjustment and armrests are also available on driver and front passenger leather seats, with the option of a three-position memory on the driver's seat. Two-stage seat heating is available on certain models to provide reliable and rapid seat warming in cold environments.
The rear seat is wide enough to accommodate three standard adults, and includes a central armrest on leather versions. An asymmetrically split design, it folds forward to offer a completely flat floor area.
Lots of Luggage and Stowage Space
The capacious boot provides plenty of space for luggage or sports equipment, from bicycles to golf clubs. A neat touch is the reversible load floor cover with carpet on one side and a water-resistant surface on the other.
Total luggage volume is 1670 litres with the rear seats folded forward and 755 litres when raised (27 and 38 per cent respectively better than the outgoing Freelander). The space was designed from the outset to be as versatile as possible. For example, Land Rover even checked that Roly (one of the team's fully grown Labradors, digitised for just this purpose) could travel in comfort. The high load-space floor avoids the need to bend down to lower items into the boot.
Within the cabin, the centre console includes cup-holders that can secure a wide variety of drink cans and cups. There is stowage space galore, including a large hopper-style glove-box and generous front and rear door bins with 1-litre bottle-holders. On selected models, the front seats have handy 'kangaroo pockets' on the front in addition to map pockets on the back.
Sound Systems
The sound systems offered for Freelander 2 are headed by a top-level version that features Dolby Prologic IIx surround sound, incorporating a 12x40 W amplifier. It is delivered through 12 speakers, including a sub-woofer, and the system incorporates a six-disc in-dash CD changer. It is also MP3 format compatible.
One rung down but still highly impressive is a system that includes an 8x40 W power output and eight speakers plus sub-woofer. Volume control is automatic, and changes with the car's speed.
Rear seat headphone sockets are available, allowing rear seat passengers to listen to a different audio source from that of the front seat occupants.
An auxiliary audio input socket for the connection of an MP3 player, iPod, or other source is fitted as standard in the centre console. DAB digital radio is available as an option in selected markets.
Premium Equipment
Freelander 2 is available with a wide array of premium-car equipment, as standard or as options. This includes:
Keyless starter button standard throughout the range
High-definition colour touch-screen DVD satellite navigation
Bi-xenon Adaptive Front Lighting
Auto headlights and rain-sensing wipers
Cruise control
Park Distance Control at the front and rear
Bluetooth hands-free telephone system to integrate phone control and display with the car
12-speaker Alpine/Dolby Prologic IIx sound system
DAB digital radio
Dual-zone ATC air-conditioning, with pollen filter and humidity sensor
Panoramic top-sliding sunroof
Lazy-open and Lazy-locking functionality
One-shot windows and sunroof
'Approach lighting' operated by the key fob
All photographs and engineering data in this press pack are from pre-production prototype work. |
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