The New Range Rover Velar: A Game-Changer in the Making
Recent details about the EMA programme have hinted at the potential inclusion of a range-extender system utilizing a small petrol engine as a generator for a traction battery in the upcoming Range Rover Velar. However, it remains to be seen if Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) will ultimately go ahead with this innovative technology.
While an official launch date for the new Velar has not been set in stone, JLR CEO Adrian Mardell has indicated that the first EMA-based vehicle could hit the market within the next year. “We’ll first introduce the MLA BEV with the Range Rover EV later this year. Following that, the first vehicle off EMA is expected to arrive in spring 2026, with the Jaguar super-GT concept coming after,” Mardell stated.
Velar Leading the Charge in Range Rover Line-Up Revamp
The debut of the Range Rover Velar will mark a significant milestone in the evolution of the Range Rover brand, marking the most extensive reshuffle in its 55-year history.
Leading the charge will be the Range Rover Electric, set to make its debut before the year’s end. Built on the adaptable MLA platform, this electric variant was designed from the ground up to accommodate electric components seamlessly. Following closely will be the Range Rover Sport Electric, expected to be unveiled shortly after. Both models will share production lines with their combustion engine counterparts at Solihull.
These electric models are crucial for the brand as it navigates through the electrification transition. Alongside the anticipated electric version of the Defender, these models play a pivotal role as the most profitable and popular offerings in JLR’s lineup, accounting for over half of the company’s total production in 2024.
With major markets like the UK, the European Union, and certain US states phasing out the sale of new combustion engine vehicles within the next decade, it is imperative for JLR to shift the Range Rover brand towards electric powertrains.
To facilitate this transition, JLR is aiming to match the performance capabilities of its current models. The Range Rover Electric, for instance, is projected to deliver performance levels on par with existing V8 models, including the high-powered 626bhp Sport SV.
