Range Rover's first EV arrives late but looks exactly like its gas-powered sibling

Key points

• The Range Rover Electric features twin 260kW motors and an 118.5 kWh battery, delivering 542 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque.
• It achieves 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds and offers an estimated 330 miles of real-world range.
• The vehicle supports 800-volt DC fast charging, allowing a 10-80% charge in 22 minutes.
• Production is set to begin at the Solihull factory, with battery packs manufactured in Wolverhampton.
• The launch was delayed by one year from the original 2023 preorder promise, with orders now open at a starting price of $140,450.

Background

Range Rover first announced its electric model over five years ago and opened preorders in 2023, promising deliveries by 2024. The brand had previously faced supply chain disruptions and a cyber-attack that impacted profits. This launch follows earlier archive reports confirming the vehicle's 800-volt architecture and NACS compatibility for US buyers.

How outlets are covering it

The Verge emphasizes the vehicle's conservative design, noting that it looks nearly identical to gas models, which they view as a refreshing move away from 'spaceship-like' EV aesthetics. The Guardian highlights the delayed launch and the high price tag, framing it as a milestone for JLR's transition away from fossil fuels despite recent financial struggles. Car and Driver and Autoweek focus on the technical specifications, such as the 300 patents filed and the advanced grip control that adjusts power in 50 milliseconds. All sources agree on the core specs but differ in their emphasis on design versus performance.

Why it matters

The Range Rover Electric represents a significant step for a luxury brand in the EV market, offering a familiar design to traditional buyers while incorporating advanced electric technology. Its high price and delayed launch reflect the challenges of transitioning established automakers to electrification, while its specs aim to compete with rivals like the Porsche Macan EV and Lotus Eletre.

What to watch

Production will begin at the Solihull factory, with additional electrified Range Rover variants, including a Sport model, planned for the future. The Defender is expected to receive an electric version later. Buyers can now place orders, with deliveries expected to begin soon.