New electric Range Rover Velar prepares for launch
The market for premium electric SUVs continues to expand, and Jaguar Land Rover cannot stand aside. In response to the activity of competitors such as BMW, Mercedes, and Audi, the brand is preparing an electric version of not only the full-size Range Rover but also the smaller Range Rover Velar. A prototype is already undergoing testing on the Nürburgring track.
Although the prototype is hidden by camouflage, it is obvious that the overall outlines of the Velar EV will be similar to the internal combustion engine model. The current design is considered successful, so Land Rover decided not to make radical changes. The front end remains recognizable thanks to slim headlights and darkened zones that imitate the radiator grille and air intakes.
The Velar EV may borrow some tech from the full-size Range Rover.
The question of possible changes to the front end remains open. Since electric vehicles do not need engine cooling, a traditional radiator grille and large air intakes are not necessary. However, judging by the prototype, some version of the grille will likely be retained—perhaps in the form of a solid black panel. A small camera is located in the center, used by safety and driver assistance systems.
The rear of the prototype also attracts attention: noticeable irregularities near the C- and D-pillars, but the production model is expected to have a more refined design.
Powertrain assumptions
Information about the electric Velar’s powertrain is still limited. It is known that the larger Range Rover EV will get a 117 kWh battery, but for the more compact Velar, that is too much. Most likely, a battery with a capacity of 85 to 100 kWh will be installed here.
A pair of electric motors could allow it to out-muscle the supercharged V8.
It is assumed that the model will receive two electric motors for all-wheel drive. There is even a possibility that it will surpass the current SVAutobiography Dynamic version with its supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine, which produces 542 hp and 681 Nm of torque, in terms of power.
Land Rover isn’t expected to lift the veil on the latest Velar until next year.
The official unveiling of the new Velar is not expected until next year. This will give the company time to finalize the technology and design to compete with other premium electric SUVs on the market. The electrification of the Velar is part of Jaguar Land Rover’s larger strategy to transition to clean technologies, in line with global trends in the automotive industry.