The Range Rover Sport has finally gone electric after following in the footsteps of its bigger brother which also made a global debut earlier in September. The British stable went on to make sure everyone knows that this is not just a powertrains swap but a fully tuned EV made to provide more to those who relish every drive.
Martin Limpert, Managing Director, Range Rover, said: “Range Rover Sport is the most dynamic expression of Range Rover. With Range Rover Sport Electric we’re taking that spirit of visceral engagement and desire into the electric age. It is first and foremost a Range Rover Sport. The seamlessly-integrated electric propulsion system means we’ve been able to unlock new levels of responsiveness and precision, with a uniquely tuned chassis set-up, performance-focused torque delivery, and distinctive sound profiles that ensure our clients enjoy the very best driver engagement in a sporting luxury SUV.”
Range Rover Sport Electric under the body
Under the bonnet of the luxury SUV now sits a a dual electric-motor drivetrain utilizing two permanent-magnet synchronous motors (one on each axle) paired with an 118.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with high-power density in a high-strength aluminium enclosure. The system is set output 404 kW and 850 Nm, with the Dynamic Launch Mode engaged, you are able to achieve a claimed 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds.
The 800V electrical architecture provides fast, adaptable split-charging capability. As far as charging goes, using a public DC charger can add up to 220km of driving range in a claimed 10 minutes, or charge from 10-80 per cent in around 22 minutes. A fully charged Range Rover Sport Electric gives you 535 kilometres.
A stiffer body makes for a more lower centre of gravity
The Range Rover team have went to town on the vehicles skeleton to ensure a balanced and non turbulent ride which acciomdates the extra load without compromising driving dynamics. The all‑electric Range Rover Sport has a a 61 per cent stiffer body structure and 73mm lower centre of gravity than Range Rover Sport plug‑in electric hybrid (PHEV) models and is built to withstand high impacts, to help maximise the safety and quality of the battery.
The vehicle gains exterior tweaks signature to the EV outfit
Whilst the exterior of the vehicle ill remain largely undone or majorly tweaked, the British stable has added just enough enhancements to at least give the EV a visible distinction form the PHEV and ICE variants.
These said revisions begin at the wheels where the car dresses up in aerodynamically-optimised wheels whilst the front experiences a new closing off of the grille. An optional Black Pack and Satin Wrap add an even more stealthy appeal. The curated First Edition is finished in Zadar Grey with Satin Wrap, with black contrast roof and 22‑inch alloy wheels.
The release of the all electric Range Rover Sport marks a significant change in the brands history
Range Rover Sport Electric marked a significant milestone by showcasing its dynamic abilities in the challenging Carrara marble quarries of Italy. This feat continued its legacy of performance, following previous achievements like the Pikes Peak Hill Climb and traversing Heaven’s Gate. Facing extreme temperatures and steep gradients, it verified its all-terrain capabilities on demanding surfaces.
An intelligent ride tuning for improved performance
To handle the extra weight Range Rover Sport Electric features uniquely tuned Intelligent Traction Management, virtual all-whee drive, Dynamic Air Suspension and electronic Active Roll Control which can apply up to 1,400Nm of force across each axle for maximum composure at all times – as well as Twin Valve Dampers and Adaptive Dynamics 2, which monitors 100 parameters 500 times per second to provide greater control of body roll and pitch when cornering and braking.
Matt Becker, Vehicle Engineering Director, Range Rover, said: “Range Rover Sport Electric represents an evolution in the dynamic character of Range Rover Sport, with an even greater emphasis on driver engagement and sporting response. The stiffer architecture and lower centre of gravity, combined with precise torque control and advanced chassis technologies, creates a vehicle with sharper responses, greater agility and increased confidence. It feels smaller, more planted and more responsive than you would imagine. All without sacrificing refinement, comfort or breadth of capability.”
The new Range Rover Sport Electric is priced from R 3,291,100 for the Range Rover Sport AWD EV 405kW EV550 Dynamic SE, and R 3,609,200 for the range-topping Range Rover Sport AWD EV 405kW EV550 First Edition.