The first all-electric Range Rover SUV is coming soon and has already received thousands of pre-bookings, indicating strong demand globally. Range Rover’s iconic luxury SUVs are known for their rugged off-roading capabilities and luxurious interiors. The company is now gearing up to launch its first electric SUV by the end of 2024.
Pre-Bookings Show Popularity of Upcoming Electric SUV
According to media reports, the yet-to-be-launched electric Range Rover SUV has already received a whopping 16,000 pre-bookings worldwide. This points to the high interest and hype surrounding this electric vehicle months before its official launch.
The pre-bookings started in December 2023 when Land Rover tried to gauge the demand for its first electric SUV globally. The British luxury carmaker plans to unveil the electric Range Rover towards the end of 2024.
This will be the first time that the iconic Range Rover lineup will have a battery-powered electric variant. The current Range Rover models run on powerful V8 petrol and diesel engines delivering over 500hp.
What to Expect from the Upcoming Electric SUV
While JLR has not revealed any details about the electric Range Rover yet, reports suggest it will share its platform with the existing Range Rover models.
Land Rover’s Chief Engineer, Thomas Mueller has claimed that this will be the “most silent and refined Range Rover ever.” Of course, an electric powertrain means the SUV will have a near-silent cabin.
Some teaser images released by the company indicate the electric SUV will retain the iconic design and styling of the flagship Range Rover SUV. It is likely to get an 800V electrical architecture enabling ultra-fast charging.
Performance and Capability of the Electric Range Rover
Although the technical specifications are under wraps, Land Rover says the electric model will be as capable on all terrains just like the standard Range Rover.
This means buyers can expect similar off-road ruggedness and refinement from the battery-powered model as well. The electric motors are expected to produce over 500hp enabling brisk acceleration.
The sophisticated all-wheel-drive system will also make the electric Range Rover surefooted over rough terrain and on regular tarmac. It is likely to get 850mm of wading capacity like the regular versions.
Jaguar Land Rover has already begun testing camouflaged prototypes of the electric SUV in Sweden and Dubai. The electric Range Rover will be manufactured alongside the mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants at JLR’s Solihull facility.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Features
As a flagship product, the electric Range Rover will boast many cutting-edge tech and comfort features. Expect creature comforts like massage seats, climate control, premium audio and the latest touchscreen infotainment.
Advanced driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, auto emergency braking etc will also make the commute safer and convenient. Software updates over the air will keep the electric SUV updated.
The dual-motor AWD system will deliver sports car-rivalling acceleration aided by instant torque. The low centre of gravity from the underfloor battery will also make handling sharper around corners.
Ultra-Fast Charging and Long Driving Range
Land Rover aims to provide an effective charging infrastructure for its electric models. The 800V electrical architecture will allow adding 100km of range with just 10 minutes of charging.
Expect the driving range to be somewhere between 400-500km on a single full charge for the top-spec variants. Lower trims might get a 65-80 kWh battery pack giving a shorter max range.
DC fast charging capability will allow owners to maximize the time on the road and minimize downtime. The company will set up fast chargers across its dealership network for customers. Home charging solutions will also be offered.
Luxurious Interiors with Sustainable Materials
The electric model’s cabin will be similar to the luxurious interior of the standard Range Rover. Expect the highest quality leather seats, bespoke wood trims and metal accents throughout the cabin.
JLR also aims to increase the use of sustainable materials in its EVs. The electric Range Rover is likely to use leather-alternative upholstery, recycled plastics and metals, and sustainable wood veneers.
Cutting-edge cabin tech like gesture control, augmented reality HUD, and intuitive touch responses will make using the infotainment system and controls easier. The minimalist dashboard design will also enhance the sense of space.
High Localization for the Indian Market
JLR is planning to assemble the electric Range Rover in India as well to cater to local demand. The company’s manufacturing facility in Pune will produce the model for Indian buyers.
This will allow the company to price the EV competitively compared to importing built units from the UK. Local manufacturing will also help in customizing the EV for Indian conditions and buyers’ preferences.
Initially, the batteries will be sourced from other suppliers. Later on, JLR will switch to locally manufactured batteries from Tata’s upcoming Gigafactory in India. High localization levels will make the electric Range Rover more affordable for Indian buyers compared to its ICE counterparts.
The arrival of the electric Range Rover SUV with a range of over 400km could accelerate the luxury EV adoption in India. Its instantly recognizable design, brilliant ride comfort and high-end cabin will appeal greatly to luxury buyers looking to switch to electric.
