The first electric Range Rover has arrived: 550 horsepower and 600 km range has a high price tag

The first fully electric Range Rover has arrived, marking a historic shift for the luxury brand. The new Range Rover Electric retains nearly the same exterior design as its internal combustion engine counterparts but introduces a groundbreaking all-electric powertrain beneath its bodywork. With two electric motors, a 118.5 kWh battery pack, and a claimed range of up to 600 kilometers according to WLTP standards, the vehicle represents Land Rover’s commitment to electrification while maintaining the high levels of comfort, sound insulation, and off-road capability that customers expect from the Range Rover nameplate. The new model will be available in several trim levels, including SE, HSE, Autobiography, SV, SV Ultra, and SV Black, along with a special edition called First Edition. While the visual changes compared to the fifth-generation Range Rover, introduced late last year, are minimal, the electric version features a more aerodynamic front fascia, redesigned grilles, and a reshaped bumper. These subtle modifications have reduced the drag coefficient by 0.01, translating into an estimated additional 16 kilometers of range when driving on highways. Inside, the cabin is largely unchanged from other Range Rover models, though there are notable differences in the infotainment system and dashboard layout, tailored specifically for the electric drivetrain. The interior includes advanced technology such as AI-powered range prediction and wireless software updates for the battery management system. The vehicle is also significantly quieter than its gasoline-powered predecessors, with noise levels inside the cabin reportedly 7 decibels lower during maximum acceleration. Powering the Range Rover Electric are two electric motors, one on each axle, developed and produced internally by Land Rover. Together, they deliver a combined output of 405 kW, equivalent to 550 horsepower, with a peak torque of 850 Nm. The base variant offers 50 fewer horsepower, resulting in slightly longer acceleration times. It can reach 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, just a fraction slower than the V8-powered version, which takes a few tenths of a second less. The lower-performance model is closer in performance to entry-level gasoline variants. The vehicle's energy storage comes in the form of a large lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 118.5 kWh, housed under the floor of the cabin within a high-strength aluminum housing. According to WLTP testing, the official range extends up to 600 kilometers. The car uses an 800-volt architecture, enabling fast DC charging at up to 350 kW. This allows the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in just 22 minutes using compatible chargers. A 10-minute charge provides enough range for approximately 220 kilometers of travel. During its development, Land Rover filed over 300 patents, showcasing its investment in innovative technologies. One standout feature is the ThermAssist system, designed to improve thermal efficiency. This system can reduce energy consumption for heating by up to 40%, and in extreme weather conditions, it can increase the vehicle's range by up to 40 kilometers. The electric drivetrain does not compromise the vehicle's off-road capabilities, thanks to active dampers with dual valves, dual air springs, and rear-wheel steering. Sensors monitor water levels and automatically adjust the vehicle's height, allowing it to traverse water depths of up to 900 millimeters. The new Integrated Traction Management system optimizes traction distribution on slippery surfaces, while Intelligent Driveline Dynamics enables the vehicle to handle lateral slopes of up to 33 degrees and inclines of up to 45 degrees. Weighing 2885 kilograms, 75 kilograms heavier than the plug-in hybrid variant, the electric Range Rover still maintains a lower center of gravity than the V8 version due to the battery placement. It is capable of towing up to 2.5 tons, ensuring it remains a versatile choice for both urban and rugged environments.