The much-anticipated Range Rover Electric is moving closer to its global debut in 2024, and as part of the final preparations, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is subjecting the luxury SUV to intense testing conditions in the UAE. This marks the next phase after the electric SUV’s previous tests in the Arctic Circle, which aimed to evaluate its performance in extremely cold climates.
Range Rover Electric Extreme Heat Testing in the UAE
The Range Rover Electric is being rigorously tested under some of the harshest conditions in the world, with temperatures soaring above 50°C and humidity levels reaching 90%. These extreme heat tests are crucial for evaluating the SUV’s thermal management system, which is being touted as the most intelligent system ever fitted to a Range Rover. Designed to ensure maximum comfort for passengers in high temperatures, the system performed beyond expectations during the tests, according to JLR.
Tackling the UAE’s Sand Dunes
In addition to heat endurance, the Range Rover Electric is being pushed to its limits off-road. The test mules are being thrown into the famous Big Red sand dune in the Al Badayer desert of Sharjah, where they must prove their off-road capabilities. Equipped with JLR’s new Intelligent Torque Management system, the electric SUV replaces conventional traction control systems, allowing it to divert power to each motor for better control and performance. The system is designed to reduce torque reaction time from around 100 milliseconds to just one millisecond, ensuring smooth and responsive off-road handling.
Impressive Performance and Capabilities
JLR has emphasized that the new Range Rover Electric will retain the “go-anywhere” capabilities of its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts. It promises towing, wading, and all-terrain capabilities that will surpass other luxury electric SUVs. The vehicle is designed to wade through waters up to 850mm deep and perform under tough off-road conditions.
Though specific performance figures are not yet confirmed, the electric Range Rover is expected to offer similar performance to its V8-powered counterpart, with an estimated output close to 530hp. It is likely to feature dual-motor technology for enhanced four-wheel-drive capability, along with torque vectoring for superior off-road performance.
The Future of Range Rover Electric and JLR’s EV Plans
JLR has confirmed that the Range Rover Electric will be built in Solihull, UK, alongside the existing mild-hybrid and PHEV versions. In the future, however, the company plans to switch to batteries produced in the upcoming Somerset gigafactory, which is part of JLR’s parent company, Tata Motors’ EV expansion plans.
EV Production in India: JLR’s New Plans
In addition to these developments, JLR is also looking at manufacturing electric vehicles in India. Tata Motors recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Tamil Nadu government to invest Rs 9,000 crore to set up a new EV plant in the state. This plant could potentially be used for manufacturing JLR EVs, with rumors suggesting that some ICE model production might also shift to India to comply with European and UK regulations on internal combustion engine manufacturing.
With these advancements, the Range Rover Electric is expected to offer unparalleled luxury, off-road performance, and cutting-edge technology for a new generation of electric vehicle enthusiasts.
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