Land Rover is preparing to introduce a full electric Range Rover model that’s positioned between the Evoque and Velar in terms of size, but the new SUV, which is tipped to be the most road-focused model the company has ever created, will offer more cabin space than the Velar thanks to its electric architecture.
According to Autocar, the electric SUV may be designed for the road, but it will still boast more off-road capabilities that its rivals. Design-wise, the roofline will be lowered to give it the familiar Range Rover profile, and its rivals include the electric Porsche Macan, as well as the upcoming Audi e-tron Sportback.
Land Rover continues to remain tight-lipped on this project, but company boss Ralf Speth is keen on achieving the goal of achieving net zero emissions. Speth also hinted to reporters that there would be new models in the line-up. “We will launch things to expand the product portfolio. We won’t stand still. So you can expect these [new models] as you can also expect updates of our existing cars,” he said.
As for the underpinnings, nothing is certain as yet, but JLR is already actively working with BMW to co-develop next-generation electric drive systems together, so expect some of that technology to be featured in the new car. A skateboard platform has been mooted, featuring two motors to provide all-wheel drive, as per Range Rover tradition.
Meanwhile, the move to introduce a full electric Range Rover is part of the company’s key strategy to strengthen its electrification focus. The apparent launch date is in late 2021, and Land Rover hopes that the new SUV’s introduction will boost its brand appeal in vital markets such as China, where the demand for large premium crossovers and electric cars are high.
In a presentation to investors earlier this year, JLR bosses said they planned to introduce 14 new or refreshed models in the 2020 financial year, and this includes electrified variants of existing models. A total of 16 more models will follow from 2021 onwards.
As of 2020, every new JLR model will be offered with an electrified variant, with either a plug-in hybrid or full electric option. This will also trickle down through the Land Rover line-up, including the Discovery and Defender. Additional mild-hybrid and PHEV versions of the Range Rover and Discovery models are due in the next financial year. While a plug-in hybrid version of the Defender is in the works, there are no plans for a full electric version.
GALLERY: 2020 Land Rover Defender
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.
It still can go off-road….until a sharp rock punctures one of its battery cell packs and all hell will break loose haha.