Why Has the Range Rover Electric Been Delayed Again?
If you’ve been eyeing the Range Rover Electric, you’re not alone—over 62,000 people are already on the waitlist. But here’s the latest twist: those first deliveries, originally promised for late 2025, have now been pushed back to 2026. So, what’s behind the delay, and what does it mean for buyers and the broader electric vehicle (EV) market?
JLR, the parent company behind Land Rover and Jaguar, says the decision comes down to two main factors: more time for testing and waiting for EV demand to heat up. It’s a move that’s becoming increasingly common across the industry as automakers navigate a rapidly shifting landscape. According to a 2024 report from the International Energy Agency, global EV sales are still growing, but at a slower pace than some analysts predicted a few years ago. That means brands like JLR are feeling the pressure to get things right—both in terms of product quality and timing.
How Will This Impact New Jaguar Models and Other EVs?
The domino effect is real. The Range Rover Electric isn’t the only model caught in the crosshairs. The delay could also push back the launch of the electric Range Rover Velar, which was initially expected to debut in the middle of next year. And it doesn’t stop there—Jaguar’s much-anticipated rebrand, including the production version of the Type 00 concept (a high-performance super-GT with over 575bhp and a price tag north of £100,000), may also see its timeline shift.
For Jaguar, this is a pivotal moment. The brand is banking on a new era of luxury electric vehicles, with a large saloon and an SUV slated to follow the super-GT from 2027 onward. Any delay in the Range Rover Electric could ripple through Jaguar’s plans, forcing the company to recalibrate its rollout strategy.
What’s JLR’s Official Stance on the Delay?
JLR hasn’t come right out and confirmed the delay, but their messaging is clear: they’re committed to launching new models “at the right time.” In a recent statement, the company emphasized its flexibility, saying its vehicle architectures can adapt to changing market and client demands. By 2030, JLR aims to offer electric versions of all its luxury brands—a bold goal that underscores the company’s long-term commitment to electrification.
It’s worth noting that JLR isn’t alone in taking a cautious approach. Many automakers are rethinking their EV strategies as they grapple with supply chain challenges, evolving battery technologies, and fluctuating consumer interest. The stakes are high, and no one wants to rush a flagship model to market only to face quality issues or lukewarm demand.
Why Is More Testing Time So Important for EVs?
Let’s face it: launching a new EV isn’t just about slapping a battery into an existing model. The technology is evolving fast, and expectations are sky-high. Buyers want range, performance, and reliability—all wrapped up in a package that feels every bit as luxurious as its petrol-powered predecessors.
JLR’s decision to extend testing isn’t just about ironing out kinks. It’s about ensuring the Range Rover Electric can stand toe-to-toe with rivals from Mercedes, BMW, and Tesla. Recent industry data shows that early adopters are quick to share their experiences—good or bad—on social media and review sites. A single high-profile misstep can haunt a brand for years.
By taking extra time to test and refine, JLR is betting that a flawless launch will pay off in the long run. It’s a strategy that’s worked for others: Porsche, for example, delayed the Taycan’s launch to perfect its battery management system, and the result was one of the most acclaimed EVs on the market.
Is EV Demand Really Slowing Down?
Here’s where things get interesting. While global EV sales hit a record 14 million units in 2023, growth rates have started to plateau in some key markets. In the UK, for instance, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reported that battery electric vehicle registrations grew by just 18% in the first half of 2024—a far cry from the triple-digit growth seen in previous years.
Several factors are at play: high upfront costs, patchy charging infrastructure, and lingering concerns about battery longevity. For luxury brands like JLR, the challenge is even greater. Their customers expect perfection, and they’re willing to wait for it.
What Should Customers Do If They’re on the Waitlist?
If you’re one of the 62,000 people eagerly awaiting your Range Rover Electric, this news might sting. But there’s a silver lining. The extra time means you’re more likely to get a vehicle that meets (or exceeds) expectations, with the latest technology and fewer teething problems.
In the meantime, it’s worth keeping an eye on developments in the EV space. Battery technology is advancing rapidly, and new charging solutions are coming online every month. By the time your Range Rover Electric arrives, you might find the ownership experience is even better than you’d hoped.
Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for the Future of Luxury EVs?
Delays are never fun, but they’re often a sign that a company is taking its responsibilities seriously. For JLR, the decision to hold off on launching the Range Rover Electric—and potentially other models—reflects a broader industry trend toward caution and quality over speed.
As the EV market matures, buyers are becoming more discerning, and brands can’t afford to cut corners. The outcome? We’re likely to see fewer rushed launches and more vehicles that truly deliver on their promises. For those willing to wait, the payoff could be well worth it.