Jaguar Land Rover has officially unveiled the first fully electric version of the iconic Range Rover, marking a significant transition for the luxury SUV brand after more than half a century of internal combustion dominance. The manufacturer confirmed that the vehicle is the result of a decade-long development cycle, during which the company filed more than 300 patents to ensure the electric model maintains the off-road prowess associated with the nameplate. Deliveries are scheduled to reach customers by the end of 2026.
The new electric SUV is built on the company's aluminum MLA-Flex platform, designed to accommodate a large battery pack while preserving the vehicle's traditional capabilities. Despite the integration of a 118.5-kWh battery, the manufacturer reports that the electric variant maintains a weight comparable to its V8-powered counterpart, with only a marginal reduction in ground clearance. The vehicle has undergone extensive testing across 900,000 miles of diverse terrain, ranging from extreme desert heat to freezing mountain environments, to validate its performance in wilderness conditions.
Engineering for Off-Road Performance
The electric Range Rover utilizes twin permanent magnet electric motors that deliver a peak output of 542 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain configuration enables a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 4.3 seconds, while providing the necessary torque for demanding off-road maneuvers. The vehicle features an Integrated Traction Management system that monitors all four wheels in real time, with the ability to adjust motor speed in as little as 50 milliseconds to maintain stability on steep inclines.
To ensure comfort during off-road excursions, the SUV is equipped with a two-chamber air suspension system. This setup is complemented by a one-pedal driving mode, which allows for precise control when navigating challenging slopes of up to 45 degrees. Despite the presence of a large battery pack in the floorboard, the vehicle retains a wading depth of 35 inches, matching the capability of its internal combustion engine predecessors.
Charging Infrastructure and Battery Efficiency
The vehicle's 118.5-kWh battery pack provides an EPA-estimated range of 333 miles on a single charge. To support long-distance travel, the Range Rover Electric is compatible with NACS fast-charging infrastructure. According to Jaguar Land Rover, this system allows users to add up to 125 miles of range in approximately 20 minutes, with a 10% to 80% charge cycle achievable in 22 minutes.
Owners can manage their vehicle's energy usage through a dedicated mobile application. This software allows for the scheduling of charging sessions to leverage off-peak electricity rates, as well as remote monitoring of battery capacity. The app also provides pre-conditioning features, such as the ability to purify the cabin air before the driver enters the vehicle, enhancing the overall user experience.
Design Continuity and Manufacturing
Visually, the electric Range Rover remains nearly identical to the existing V8-powered model, maintaining the classic silhouette that has defined the brand for decades. The primary exterior modifications are functional rather than aesthetic, including a closed-off grille and a redesigned underbody and wheel configuration to improve aerodynamic efficiency. These changes were essential to maximizing the vehicle's range without compromising its traditional luxury design language.
The interior of the electric model mirrors the layout and appointments of the gas-powered version, ensuring a consistent experience for existing Range Rover owners. Jaguar Land Rover has retooled its Solihull manufacturing facility to accommodate the production of the new electric SUV, with plans to offer both standard and long-wheelbase variants to meet diverse market demands.
Market Positioning and Pricing
The electric Range Rover enters the luxury market with a starting price of US$138,000, which includes destination charges. This price point represents a premium of approximately $25,000 over the standard gas-powered model and is nearly $10,000 higher than the plug-in hybrid P550e variant. While the higher cost may be a consideration for some buyers, the company is positioning the vehicle as a premium offering that does not sacrifice the utility or luxury expected of the Range Rover badge.
By maintaining the core identity of the Range Rover while transitioning to an electric powertrain, the company aims to retain its loyal customer base while appealing to the growing segment of luxury buyers seeking sustainable transport. The successful launch of this model is a critical milestone for Jaguar Land Rover as it navigates the broader industry shift toward electrification.
