Award-winning vocalist Lira and sports presenter Elma Smit have been announced as Land Rover South Africa’s new ambassadors for the new Defender 90.
According to Motorpress, Lira is a Namibia Tourism ambassador who is open to any opportunities that require bravery and is an adventure seeker. Lira performs to thousands and in her spare time explores gravel and dusty roads around South Africa.
"The new Defender screams adventure and in the compact 90 forms, its size suits my lifestyle perfectly," said Lira. "I’ve always admired what Land Rover stands for and I’m proud to be associated with the history of such an iconic nameplate in the Defender. I can’t wait to hit the road and put the most capable Land Rover ever, to the test in my world."
Elma Smit presents on TV and radio locally and abroad. Her passion is rugby and aligns perfectly with the Land Rover and Defender brands. Land Rover has a 20-year heritage and commitment to rugby on levels and has been a sponsor of the Rugby World Cup since 2011.
"I was in Yokohama to watch South Africa win the World Cup in 2019, and I clearly remember seeing the Defender 90 revealed to the world and taking a lap of the field before presenting the trophy to the Springboks," said Elma. "It was a truly memorable moment, and now two years on I’m fortunate enough to be an ambassador for the very same vehicle. This association has brought my love of Land Rover and rugby together in a special way."
As part of South Africa’s launch program for the Defender 90, Lira and Elma were invited to the Jaguar Land Rover Experience in Lonehill, Johannesburg to get a feel of their new vehicles to prepare for future adventures.
They experienced extreme and diverse situations and were instructed on how to use driver assistance features in a challenging off-road environment.
"The ease at which the Defender handled the Experience facility’s obstacles and trails is astonishing," said Lira. "I looked at the steep inclines and deep water and thought -˜no way’, but the Defender took everything in its stride. I’ve only just begun to comprehend what this vehicle can do, but I look forward to living with it on my daily journeys and off-time adventures."
"It’s so easy to manoeuvre," said Elma. "With such a short wheelbase the Defender 90 turns tightly and clambers over everything in its path. I’m amazed with its technologies and I love the camera systems that offer views around the vehicle I can’t see from behind the wheel. This car will integrate into my lifestyle perfectly and I can’t wait to get even more familiar with it."
Lira and Elma both embody the #TeamDefender spirit of like-minded people, who aspire to go above and beyond to make more of their world.
Picture/s: Motorpress
