Land Rover has officially begun global testing of its highly anticipated Range Rover Electric. The first prototype vehicles emerged from a year of virtual and component development, and they’re now facing the harshest environments on Earth to ensure unparalleled capability and refinement.
Images released by Land Rover showcase these initial prototypes in a sleek, all-black design that stays true to the brand’s heritage while subtly hinting at the build quality beneath. This initial testing phase follows an extensive digital development process, with the ultimate goal of delivering “the quietest and most refined Range Rover ever created.”
Land Rover isn’t messing around when it comes to testing. The Range Rover Electric prototypes are currently undergoing extreme temperature assessments, enduring the brutal -40°C chill of the Arctic Circle and the scorching +50°C heat of Middle Eastern deserts. This rigorous approach focuses on pushing the all-electric drivetrain, particularly the battery and Electric Drive Unit (EDU), to their limits.
The EDU, a first for the brand and assembled entirely in-house by JLR, combines the transmission, electric motor, and power electronics. Testing on Sweden’s frozen lakes has shown promising results, exceeding even Land Rover’s renowned capability on low-traction surfaces. This ensures the Range Rover Electric maintains its legendary all-terrain, all-weather, and all-surface mastery.
Another exciting innovation is the new traction control system, also developed in-house. Unlike traditional systems relying solely on the ABS unit, this system distributes wheel slip management directly to each individual EDU. This reduces torque reaction time at each wheel from a sluggish 100 milliseconds to a lightning-fast 1 millisecond.
JLR‘s innovative software further enhances this by providing precise EDU speed control, minimizing the need for ABS intervention. The result? Maximized traction on any surface, with exceptional responsiveness and a uniquely composed feel that elevates the Range Rover driving experience. This system works seamlessly alongside stability control and other chassis systems to deliver a comprehensively refined ride.
“Range Rover with electric power,” says Thomas Mueller, Executive Director, Product Engineering, “means customary Range Rover luxury, refinement and capability, but adds near-silent, fully electric propulsion, making for effortlessly smooth and relaxed journeys.” Mueller emphasizes their commitment to pushing the Range Rover Electric to the extremes, ensuring it remains unparalleled upon release.
This news marks a significant step towards a new era for Range Rover. The combination of cutting-edge electric technology, meticulous in-house engineering, and the brand’s legendary off-road prowess has the potential to redefine the luxury electric SUV segment. With global testing well underway, the wait for the Range Rover Electric is sure to electrify the automotive world.
