Range Rover is about to write a new chapter in its history with a 100% electric version.
A bold bet for an iconic SUV whose off-road capabilities and luxury are at the heart of its DNA. With over 48,000 customers already on the waiting list, the first prototypes were undergoing extreme tests in the deserts of the United Arab Emirates a few weeks ago. But is this transformation really a good idea for a vehicle in this category?
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An electric Land Rover SUV promising unprecedented performance
Land Rover assures that its Range Rover Electric will not sacrifice the performance of its combustion counterparts. Thanks to an optimized weight distribution with batteries placed under the floor, the SUV is expected to offer exemplary handling and unprecedented off-road capabilities. Engineers have developed an intelligent torque management system designed to ensure optimal traction on all types of terrain, including the most unstable surfaces like sand. During testing, the electric Range Rover demonstrated that it could climb a 328-ft slope in the desert, proving that it meets the range’s standards. And it’s true—the advantage of electric off-roaders lies in the instant availability of torque from electric motors. There’s no need to rev the engine (which is impossible anyway), so the wheels don’t spin.
With these features, Land Rover aims to make the Range Rover Electric the most high-performing luxury electric SUV in the world. But while the theory is promising, market realities could present some challenges.
Is electric really suited for this type of vehicle?
While electrifying a luxury SUV may seem logical for urban and everyday use, the market is showing signs of skepticism. Many manufacturers, such as Porsche and Mercedes, are slowing their transition to 100% electric in the face of a public that is less enthusiastic than expected. One of the main obstacles remains weight. A hybrid Range Rover already exceeds 2.6 tons. With an all-electric version, it could approach 3 tons—a striking figure that raises questions about handling and energy consumption. Such high weight could impact dynamic performance and range, even with a large battery.
A risky, but well-considered bet
For some high-end and luxury manufacturers, electrification makes sense. Rolls-Royce, for example, justified creating its Spectre (an electric coupe) by explaining that most of its customers drive only a few kilometers a day and therefore don’t need enormous range.
In the case of the Range Rover, the argument may hold, especially for an urban clientele that primarily seeks comfort and quiet. It remains to be seen whether Land Rover can truly reconcile luxury, performance, and electrification without compromising the DNA of its flagship model.
This article explores the transition of the Range Rover to a 100% electric powertrain, highlighting the technical challenges and market expectations. Between technological advances and constraints related to weight and range, the future of the British SUV looks as ambitious as it is risky.
Images: © Land Rover
