Calling all off-road enthusiasts! Land Rover is revving up excitement with the announcement of its third Defender Rally Series in the United Kingdom. This thrilling one-make series showcases the formidable Defender 90, expertly modified by the off-road aficionados at Bowler. Get ready to embark on an adrenaline-pumping adventure as the arrive-and-drive series kicks off in March 2024, promising seven exhilarating races that will traverse the scenic landscapes of the UK.
For avid followers of off-road racing, Bowler needs no introduction. The team behind Bowler has been crafting motorsports-focused Land Rovers since 1985, earning a reputation for pushing the boundaries of what these rugged vehicles can achieve. In 2019, Bowler came under the umbrella of Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), setting the stage for the Defender Rally Series by Bowler, which made its debut in 2022. This captivating series revolves around the remarkable Defender P300 SE, a vehicle equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates a formidable 295 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
To prepare these Defenders for the rough and tumble of rallying, Bowler’s skilled team adds an array of enhancements. These include additional chassis bracing and a Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA)-certified roll cage, ensuring both safety and performance. The suspension is revamped with Bowler’s bespoke package, featuring upgraded springs and specialized Fox dampers. Further modifications involve the adaptation of stock subframes and upper wishbones to optimize ride height geometry. The Defenders are also equipped with an enlarged fuel tank, improved engine and gearbox cooling, a motorsports electronic control unit (ECU) and traction control system, and a distinctive Bowler sport exhaust. Rolling on 18-inch racing wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich all-terrain tires, these Defenders are primed for the toughest terrains.
The heart-pounding action of the seven-race series will unfold across a variety of challenging landscapes, including hill and gravel rally stages, spanning England, Scotland, and Wales. Additionally, participants will have the chance to take their Defenders beyond the UK’s borders for select international races, although details about these events are currently limited.
For those considering joining this extraordinary rally series, the investment is surprisingly accessible, starting at approximately $150,000. This all-inclusive package covers the race-ready SUV, entry into all seven races, and comprehensive training and support from both Land Rover and Bowler. Enthusiasts can even opt for the full-service package, which takes the hassle out of maintenance, as Land Rover handles cleaning, servicing, repairing, and transporting the vehicle to each event. However, aspiring racers should act swiftly as there are only 16 coveted slots available in the series each year. As of September 1, six slots have already been snapped up, underscoring the series’ popularity.
If the thrill of off-road racing in the United Kingdom beckons to you, seize this opportunity and get in touch with Bowler to secure your place in this high-octane adventure. Unleash your inner off-road racer and conquer the challenging terrain behind the wheel of a Bowler-modified Defender 90. The Defender Rally Series promises an unforgettable journey filled with adrenaline, camaraderie, and the chance to experience the true spirit of off-road racing. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this extraordinary automotive adventure in 2024!
