Ok we have just ordered a Freelander 2 TD4 S LHD for use in geneva and the french alpes.

Need a few answers

I will need a spare set of winter tyres and wheels. driving regulations for france and Switzerland.

If for winter use what wheels and what tyres? is getting 16" steel with 215 width better and what chains?

also i want to retro fit cruise control so i can get the switches and plug in
who in the North East can do the ccf ?

any other tips for alpine/ ski resort driving?

many thanks

2013 Freelander 2 comes with 17inch wheels on S, GS and XS, you cannot fit 16 inch wheels due to the electronic parking brake.

Snow chains should only be fitted to the front wheels and Land Rover do not recommend the use of standard style chains but Spikes-spyder or Maggi-trax style chains which fit over the running surface and do not impede the inside of the tyre.

Take a look at www.roofbox.co.uk for further information.

Retrofit cruise control probably worth talking to Team Valley Land Rover.

As for driving in the Alps, I've always relied on All Weather tyres with a minimum 4mm tread remaining rather than winter and not had problems but if I was there for a season then I'd opt for winters. Thing to remember in snow is that stopping distances are vastly increased, so keep speed down, plan ahead and don't make any sudden manoeuvres. Hill Descent Control and Terrain Response will be great assistance.

If you can get yourself along to a Land Rover Experience Centre and explain to the instructor that you want to know about driving in the Alps and snow.

Thanks for the information about electronic parking, I hadn't come across that information.

I am booked in at the West country Land rover experience Christmas. for a full day in a discovery and freelander

The situation is one of legality on the winter tyres, neither France or Switzerland have laws that say you have to have winter tyres. AT or M+S or all weather tyres would probably be ok.
However there is a big but, if we were to have an accident and in the police opinion we would have been better off with winter tyres we would be liable and insurance may not pay out.

It is a legal requirement that we have snow chains regardless of tyres or 4X4.

The winter tyres im thinking of getting are VREDESTEIN WINTRAC EXTREME XL

I have seen the spike spyder on the roof box site. I have also seen a few others similar design for less money.

Team valley is not too far about 50mile for ccf re programme
do you know company name? (sorry just re read it)

and thank you for your reply.

didnt want to post a look at my new car doesn't it look shinny thread.