The next generation of the Range Rover Velar will receive a completely new look. The car will become lower and will acquire a silhouette more characteristic of a sedan than an SUV. Furthermore, for the first time in the model’s history, it will be offered exclusively with an electric powertrain. Production of the new model is planned to begin in early 2027.
A Radical Change in Image
The current Range Rover Velar is considered the most refined model from Land Rover. However, compared to the next generation, its shapes may seem too soft and streamlined. Fresh spy photos indicate that the future Velar will approach a tall sedan, moving away from the canonical SUV image.
JLR engineers tried to hide the design of the new model, but not very successfully. Despite the full camouflage covering, the low stance of the body and the radically redesigned rear of the car are easily noticeable.
The new Velar looks like a hybrid of a sedan and an off-roader; its proportions are reminiscent of the Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and, more recently, the Volvo ES90.
Land Rover does not explain the reason for such a sharp change in course, but it will likely help to more clearly separate the model from the larger Range Rover Sport and the smaller Range Rover Evoque. This step is also seen as JLR’s response to the Porsche Macan Electric, shifting the Velar towards a more road-oriented role in the brand’s lineup.
Design Details
In addition to the overall new shape, it is noticeable that the front end will remain quite recognizable, with arrow-shaped headlights and a large radiator grille. The prototype also shows pop-out door handles and roof rails. As in other Land Rover models, there are two large ‘fins’ on the roof, with a camera positioned between them.
An unusual protrusion that interrupts the line of the heavily raked rear window also catches the eye. This detail appears temporary, and it would be a surprise if it makes it to the production version.
Electric Heart
The new Velar will be interesting not only because of its design but also because, for the first time, it will be sold exclusively as an electric vehicle. It will be built on the new modular EMA architecture, which will debut on this very model and later be used on the ‘younger’ Land Rover Defender.
Since the Velar uses a completely new platform, little is known about its powertrain. Theoretically, it could receive the same 117 kWh battery as the larger Range Rover Electric, although for the smaller model it might prove too large and heavy.
Spy photographers have not yet managed to peek inside the cabin, but considering how radically the exterior has changed, equally bold changes in the interior can be expected.
Expectations and Production
The new Range Rover Velar EV is expected to be unveiled in the coming months. Production will begin in 2027 at JLR’s Halewood plant, where it will roll off the assembly line alongside the future Defender Sport and possibly the next generation of the Range Rover Evoque.
The Velar’s transition to exclusively electric propulsion and its radical design change are part of a large-scale transformation of the Land Rover brand. This indicates the company’s desire not only to keep pace with global trends but also to shape them, offering an alternative to traditional SUVs in the premium segment. The success of this model could determine the future development path of the entire lineup, especially in the context of intensifying competition from German and Korean electric vehicle manufacturers.