First Look: Electric Range Rover Sport Coming Next Year
Introduction
The electric version of the Range Rover Sport is set to be launched as a high-powered competitor to the Lotus Eletre and Porsche Cayenne EV. This is one of six electric cars that Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) plans to introduce by 2026. The prototype has been spotted testing in Spain, showcasing several key changes compared to the petrol-engined Range Rover Sport.
Key Changes
The prototype features a blanked-off grille with an inverse pattern to the regular version. It also has covers for the exhaust pipes found on the regular version. The battery pack is positioned between the front and rear axles, and the charging port is expected to be located behind the conventional fuel filler cap, similar to the Range Rover Electric.
Adjusting Electrification Plan
JLR has slightly adjusted its electrification plan to allow for additional development time and to meet changing consumer demand. The company aims to launch six JLR products by 2026, including four Land Rover EVs and two Jaguar EVs. CEO Adrian Mardell stated that the company is taking its time to ensure that the new vehicles are of the highest quality and incorporate the latest technology.
Land Rover EV Line-up
The four Land Rover EVs planned for launch by 2026 include the electric Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, both based on the versatile MLA platform. Additionally, two smaller SUVs based on the new EMA platform will be introduced as replacements for the Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Velar. The flagship Range Rover EVs will be manufactured in Solihull, while the smaller models will be produced in Halewood.
Jaguar EV Line-up
Jaguar will introduce two EVs by 2026. One will be a rapid four-door GT, while the other will be a large, luxurious SUV similar to the Bentley Bentayga. Both models will be based on the bespoke Jaguar architecture called JEA. Jaguar will also launch an electric luxury saloon, rivalling the BMW i7, shortly after the introduction of the other two models.
Performance and Charging
The electric Range Rovers will feature a four-wheel-drive powertrain, offering the same off-road capabilities as the combustion models. The straight-line performance is expected to be comparable to the current V8 engine, with a 0-62mph time of 3.8 seconds. The vehicles will be equipped with 800V charging hardware for rapid charging, with a maximum speed likely to exceed 270kW. Specific details about the battery size and chemistry have not been disclosed.
Pricing and Availability
The electric Range Rover Sport is anticipated to have a starting price in the six-figure range, even in its base form. The vehicle is scheduled to be launched next year, following the release of the Range Rover EV later this year. More than 41,000 potential buyers have already signed up for the waiting list for the Range Rover EV.
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