Bowler Defender revealed for the 2022 Challenge

Bowler Motors, the off-road performance specialist, has revealed the Land Rover Defender rally car that will compete in its own championship in 2022.

The Bowler Defender Challenge is based on the Defender 90 with a 300PS Ingenium 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. The vehicle is well-known for its capabilities, engaging drive and overall robustness. The off-road performance specialist uses its long experience of competition to transform the Defender into a rally car with a full roll cage, modified underbody, raised suspension and 18-inch wheels. It is built for competition.

Michael van der Sande, Managing Director, Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations, said: “The development of the new Bowler Defender Challenge rally car perfectly illustrates the mutual benefits of Bowler joining Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations. Our technical support married to Bowler’s legendary rally expertise has turned the extraordinarily capable Defender into a purposeful competition machine. The Bowler Defender Challenge will prove the Defender’s durability through some of the toughest conditions, while providing an exciting and accessible entry point into all-terrain motorsport for a new generation of Bowler and Land Rover customers.”

The 2022 Challenge will run over seven UK-based rounds. There are 12 entries available for the one-make series, with each team competing in identical Bowler-prepared Defenders. Bowler’s own Bowler Defender Challenge car will make its public debut at the Iceland Hill Rally 400km stage rally on the 6th - 8th August.

Calum Mckechnie, Bowler General Manager, said: “The previous Defender Challenge powered by Bowler Motorsport was an incredible success. So we are delighted to announce the new Bowler Defender Challenge, launch the series and provide this amazing opportunity to experience Bowler in its natural environment. Using the team’s unique skills, knowledge and experience, developed over years of challenge and rally raid competition, has resulted in a formidable competition vehicle that will be exciting and rewarding to drive.”

Packages for the 2022 Challenge will start at £99,500 which includes a Bowler-prepared Defender Challenge car, entry into the 2022 series, which starts in March, and event support. Optional extras include training, series logistics and vehicle support. There will be accessories developed for the challenge which will be available later this year.