The Lightweight Concept Vehicle programme investigated new lightweight vehicle technologies that would enhance Land Rover's off road ability and achieve 40mpg.

LCV1 was based on a Discovery. The second, LCV2, was Defender based and used a bonded and riveted spaceframe.

LCV 2/3 further developed the lightweight technologies with an upper structure designed to accommodate the change of body from station wagon to pickup. A fully revised cab interior also brought the vehicle up to date. The 2.0 litre diesel engine was replaced with aluminium 2.5 litre V6 petrol to improve the vehicle's performance.