Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is preparing to launch the electric version of the Range Rover Sport, positioning it as a high-powered competitor to electric SUVs like the Lotus Eletre and Porsche Cayenne EV. This is part of JLR’s plan to introduce six electric vehicles across the Land Rover and Jaguar line-ups by 2026. The electric Range Rover Sport has been spotted testing in Spain, sporting several key changes compared to its petrol-engined counterpart, including a blanked-off grille and covers for the exhaust pipes.
The prototype of the electric Range Rover Sport features a battery pack located between the front and rear axles, with the charging port expected to be located behind the conventional fuel filler cap. JLR has adjusted its electrification plan to allow for additional development time and to cater to shifting consumer demand. The company’s current CEO, Adrian Mardell, stated that the delays will not significantly impact JLR’s operations and that the goal remains to electrify every product by the end of the decade.
Under the revised plans, JLR will launch four Land Rover EVs by 2026, including the electric Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, both based on the MLA platform. Additionally, two smaller SUVs based on the EMA platform are set to replace the Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Velar. The flagship Range Rover EVs will be built in Solihull, while the smaller models will be produced in Halewood.
Jaguar will also introduce two electric vehicles by 2026, including a rapid four-door GT and a large, luxurious SUV. These models will be based on the bespoke Jaguar architecture called JEA. The company plans to follow up with an electric luxury saloon, rivalling the BMW i7, shortly afterwards. However, Mardell emphasized that the reinvention of the Jaguar brand will come after the Land Rover EV line-up is established.
The electric Range Rover Sport has generated significant interest, with over 41,000 potential buyers already signed up on the waiting list. While JLR has not disclosed specific technical details, the electric Range Rover Sport will feature a four-wheel-drive powertrain and performance comparable to the current V8 model, with a 0-62mph time of 3.8 seconds. The new electric Range Rovers aim to maintain the “go-anywhere” capability of their combustion counterparts, including the ability to wade through water at depths of up to 850mm.
The charging capabilities of the electric Range Rover duo will include 800V charging hardware for rapid top-ups, with a maximum charging speed expected to exceed 270kW. The battery size and chemistry, as well as any potential drivetrain component sharing with BMW models, are yet to be revealed. The MLA architecture is designed to accommodate both combustion and electric powertrains, minimizing the need for significant structural revisions.
While the electric Range Rover Sport is expected to be more expensive than its petrol-powered counterpart, JLR aims to sustain healthy profit margins for the model line. Pricing is likely to start at six figures, even for the base model.
JLR’s electrification plans reflect a growing trend in the automotive industry, as more manufacturers shift towards electric vehicles to meet consumer demand and sustainability goals. The company’s commitment to delivering high-quality electric vehicles while adjusting to market dynamics demonstrates their dedication to remaining competitive in the evolving market.
