Will Land Rover be the first to create a chopped-top electric SUV?
The initial models of an electric Range Rover were recently seen in the Arctic Circle, however, they do not resemble the traditional Range Rover design that was anticipated for the brand’s inaugural EV. These test versions feature a significantly reduced roofline, signifying that this SUV is not the intended Range Rover Electric, but rather a substitute for the Range Rover Velar.
Merely glancing for a brief moment, a Defender descended upon the scene to obstruct the electric prototype from sight, revealing a faux roofline and rear cabin fixed onto the bona fide frame of the electric SUV. The Defender 130 additionally offers insight into the size of the fresh model, which appears to be smaller and more streamlined compared to the popular Range Rover and Range Rover Sport.
As this is our initial encounter and with no official verification from Range Rover (now a distinct brand from its Defender and Discovery counterparts within the revamped JLR), there is limited information available. Yet, it has been confirmed that JLR is working on an innovative electric modular platform (EMA) that will serve as the basis for a wide range of electric SUVs. Currently, these vehicles will be manufactured at JLR’s Halewood factory in the United Kingdom.
Range Rover is set to release their second electric SUV, with plans for electric versions of the Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Sport in the JLR group to follow suit. Despite its debut, this specific model will encounter fierce competition from the recently launched Porsche Macan Electric.The upcoming eSUV from Range Rover marks a significant addition to their lineup, with plans for further electric models in the works within the JLR group. Soon to be released are electric versions of the Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Sport, joining their existing portfolio of luxury vehicles.With much anticipation riding on its launch, this particular model will undoubtedly face tough competition, most notably from the newly released Porsche Macan Electric. The fight for domination in the electric SUV market is set to intensify, with both esteemed brands vying for the top spot.
Jaguar plans to capitalize on the potential of its Modular Longitudinal Architecture (MLA), currently utilized in the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models, to support a range of powertrain options including electric, hybrid, and traditional combustion engines. This design is particularly suited for off-road capabilities, while the EMA platform of the Range Rover Velar Electric prioritizes road performance.
Additional information will be revealed in the near future, as we anticipate the debut of the electric version of the Velar around 2026. However, we anticipate that the standard models will feature dual-motor powertrains, and there is a possibility that the top-of-the-line versions will have 600 horsepower upon release.