Vary Rover is about to remodel the Velar right into a high-end electrical fastback, shifting away from conventional combustion engines. This revamped mannequin will likely be completely electrical, constructed on the brand new 800-volt EVA platform, and is slated for an official debut subsequent spring, with an idea anticipated to be unveiled beforehand.
The subsequent-generation Velar marks a big shift for the model, transitioning from an SUV to a sleeker fastback design aimed toward competing with fashions just like the Porsche Macan EV and Taycan Cross Turismo. Autocar studies that the brand new Velar will undertake parts of the beforehand deliberate “Highway Rover,” which was supposed to be a tarmac-focused Vary Rover however was canceled earlier than manufacturing. The brand new Velar will embody this philosophy, specializing in on-road efficiency.
With the revealing a 12 months away, design and engineering efforts for the Velar EV are nearing completion. Prototype sightings point out the car’s decrease stance in comparison with earlier fashions, that includes a outstanding protecting over the rear, suggesting a coupe-like silhouette akin to the Alpine A390 or Porsche Cayenne Coupe.
The transition to a fastback type comes amid intensifying competitors inside the premium electrical crossover section. Whereas the Tesla Mannequin Y has been a previous chief, rising opponents just like the high-end Porsche Macan EV and the Zeekr 7X are gaining traction, with no definitive frontrunner in sight.
Beneath the brand new Velar EV’s streamlined physique will reside Jaguar-Land Rover’s superior 800-volt EVA platform, which permits for speedy 350 kW charging. This platform will even assist the next-gen Evoque and a brand new Defender Sport mannequin that may substitute the Discovery Sport. The primary absolutely electrical Vary Rover will debut later this 12 months, adopted by the Velar early subsequent 12 months.
Subsequently, Jaguar will launch a manufacturing model of its tremendous GT EV, designed to rival the Porsche Taycan. This mannequin, initially met with blended reactions on account of its daring design and advertising and marketing, will likely be modified for manufacturing and can characteristic extra doorways. It goals to offer a substitute for the Velar EV’s extra elevated physique type.
This is not Jaguar-Land Rover’s first foray into unconventional electrical autos. The Jaguar I-Tempo efficiently blurred the strains between conventional car classes and garnered consideration early within the EV market. Regardless of not reaching its formidable gross sales targets with Waymo, the I-Tempo stays a big a part of its fleet.
The success of the electrical Velar is unsure, notably given the unpredictable EV market. Though the standard Velar is visually interesting and delivers an amazing driving expertise as a bridge between the Evoque and bigger fashions, its gross sales haven’t been as sturdy. Consequently, Vary Rover may think about rebranding the forthcoming mannequin.
Whereas specifics similar to battery capability, vary, and pricing will not be but finalized, preliminary estimates recommend round 100 kilowatt-hours, a spread of roughly 372 miles (600 km), and a beginning worth exceeding €70,000 (round $80,000). An idea model is prone to be revealed previous to the complete launch.
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