Faced with ever-rising fuel prices and more stringent emissions legislation, Land Rover initiated a programme of work in the early 1990s to investigate lightweight technologies. The Lightweight Concept Vehicle (LCV) programme investigated new technologies, culminating in a vehicle that would enhance Land Rover's off road ability and achieve a combined fuel economy of 40mpg.

Whilst the first vehicle, LCV 1, was based on a Discovery, LCV 2/4 on display here was Defender derived and used a unique bonded and riveted spaceframe. This approach resulted in a significant reduction in the overall weight, giving better fuel economy, increased performance but comparable strength and durability with no loss of off-road ability. Eleven LCVs were built in total: four driveable, six for crash-testing and body testing, and one pick-up show vehicle with a V6 petrol engine.

The engine in LCV 2/4 is a modified Freelander L-Series 2.0 diesel, mounted longitudinally rather than transversely. It has air suspension on the rear and its weight at 1,350kg is a full 250kg lighter than a standard Defender 90 Station Wagon.

On loan to Dunsfold Collection