1970 Velar ptotype (1 of 2 suviving prototypes)

Photos is  shown with thanks to and with permission issued the 10. september 2009 by "Land Rover Centre Huddersfield" UK

Between 1967 and 1970 - 7 prototypes were built, of which 2 survive - No 6 and this one (the last No 7).

Built in Nov / Dec 1969 - Registered 01.01.1970
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Whilst it is referred to as a "VELAR", many of the first 50 production cars are referred to this way, however, this car is before all of those. It is one of only 2 prototypes in existence

 

This vehicle was "lost" for many years, and found in 1995, and totally restored with over 1000 hours work over the following 3 years by a well known Land Rover / Range Rover historian, and is 80% original.

Being a prototype it has many "odd" features, such as 1969 dated "Sundym" glass, AND smooth glove box.

This car was hand built, and all the body panels were hand made
 

It was used for testing purposes and in 1970 in France, Switzerland and hot climate testing in Morocco.

It was also used as a back up vehicle on press launch during may / June 1970.

Also went to spain in 1971 for further hot climate testing.

 

It remained in Land Rover UK's ownership, until being sold off in 1972.

This is a very rare  piece of iconic motoring history.