Recently, Land Rover released new photos of its electric Range Rover prototype, which appeared uncamouflaged during tests in the desert, following earlier trials in icy conditions.
Unlike most automakers, which typically launch cryptic teaser campaigns or unveil camouflaged prototypes, Land Rover surprised everyone by showcasing the unmasked electric Range Rover prototypes. After undergoing cold weather testing in the Arctic Circle, the vehicle then completed hot weather testing in the UAE, demonstrating the electric vehicle's remarkable adaptability to extreme environments.
The prototypes are nearly identical in appearance to the internal combustion engine version of the Range Rover available since 2022, with the only exception being the front grille, which seems to be a temporary component. It is expected to be replaced by a uniquely designed grille in the production version, set to arrive in 2025.
The electric Range Rover will be the second fully electric production model from Jaguar Land Rover after the Jaguar I-Pace. The goal is for the electric model to match the performance and off-road specifications of the fuel-powered Range Rover, which is why the new powertrain has been tested across various terrains and weather conditions.
The pre-production prototypes have been subjected to temperature extremes ranging from -40 degrees Celsius in frozen lakes of the Arctic Circle to +50 degrees Celsius in Middle Eastern deserts, ensuring the vehicle's durability and stable performance while pushing its thermal management system to the limit.
The teaser announcements highlight the “smart torque management system,” featuring an electric driving unit that manages slip at each wheel. Thanks to Jaguar Land Rover's “innovative program,” this new system responds much faster than traditional ABS-based setups, reducing the torque response time at each wheel from about 100 milliseconds to just 1 millisecond.
Land Rover states that in conjunction with stability control and chassis systems, the new setup will maximize traction on all surfaces and significantly enhance the driving experience of the Range Rover. The electric vehicle will also feature a “well-balanced weight distribution” and an “advanced suspension system,” contributing to its off-road capability.
While the company has not disclosed the power output of the electric powertrain or battery capacity, it has officially confirmed that the electric Range Rover will utilize an 800-volt platform and will deliver performance levels comparable to a V8. The company has also promised that the electric Range Rover will surpass any other luxury sports car in terms of towing, wading, and all-terrain capabilities.
The electric Range Rover will be produced in the UK alongside light hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions. Initially, the company will use batteries from external suppliers before transitioning to internally assembled units. While no specific debut date has been set, Land Rover has opened a waitlist for the electric vehicle since late 2023 and stated that it will welcome customer reservations in 2025.
