How Does the Range Rover Electric Compare to Its Legendary Predecessors?
Picture this: a 2.8-ton luxury SUV, gliding up a rocky Herefordshire trail with the same quiet confidence as its iconic ancestors. That’s the Range Rover Electric in action, and it’s not just a new chapter for JLR—it’s a bold leap. Unlike the Jaguar I-Pace, which marked JLR’s first foray into electric vehicles back in 2018, the Range Rover Electric isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel. Instead, it’s doubling down on what made the Range Rover a legend: go-anywhere capability, plush comfort, and that unmistakable sense of occasion.
What’s striking is how seamlessly the electric model fits into the Range Rover family. There’s no sense of compromise or forced innovation here. You won’t find Range Rover purists wringing their hands over lost heritage. The electric version is simply another option on the menu—offered alongside petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid models. It’s not a replacement, and there’s no pressure to make the switch. That’s a refreshing approach in a market often obsessed with pushing the latest tech at the expense of tradition.
Is the Range Rover Electric Just a Gimmick, or the Real Deal?
Let’s be honest—some electric SUVs feel like science experiments on wheels. Not this one. The Range Rover Electric is all about authenticity. It doesn’t shout about its battery pack or try to dazzle with gimmicks. Instead, it quietly delivers the kind of luxury and capability you’d expect from a Range Rover, just with a different power source under the hood.
Take its off-road performance, for example. At JLR’s Eastnor Castle development center—a proving ground for Range Rovers for decades—the electric model handled steep climbs and loose gravel with the same poise as its combustion-powered siblings. The instant torque from the electric motors actually gives it an edge in tricky situations, making it even more responsive when the going gets tough.
How Does the Driving Experience Stack Up?
If you’re picturing a soulless, silent ride, think again. The Range Rover Electric manages to feel both serene and engaging. There’s a sense of calm as you cruise along, thanks to the near-silent drivetrain. But when you need power, it’s right there—delivered instantly and smoothly. It’s the kind of driving experience that makes you wonder why all luxury SUVs aren’t electric.
Inside, the cabin is as sumptuous as ever. High-quality materials, impeccable fit and finish, and a sense of spaciousness that invites you to settle in for the long haul. And because the electric drivetrain is so quiet, you notice the little things—the softness of the leather, the subtlety of the ambient lighting, the way the suspension soaks up bumps without fuss.
What About Range, Charging, and Real-World Usability?
Let’s address the elephant in the room: range anxiety. While official figures are still under wraps, industry insiders suggest the Range Rover Electric will offer a competitive range—likely north of 300 miles on a single charge. That puts it right in the mix with rivals like the BMW iX and Mercedes EQS SUV.
Charging infrastructure is improving rapidly, especially in the UK and Europe, and the Range Rover Electric is expected to support fast charging, slashing downtime on longer journeys. For most owners, overnight charging at home will cover daily needs with ease. And for those occasional road trips? A quick coffee break at a high-speed charger should be all it takes to top up.
Is This the Right Time for a Luxury Electric SUV?
The market for electric vehicles is in a state of flux. Some buyers are all-in on EVs, while others remain skeptical. JLR’s approach with the Range Rover Electric is refreshingly pragmatic. They’re not forcing anyone’s hand. Instead, they’re offering a new choice for those who want the Range Rover experience with zero tailpipe emissions.
Recent data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders shows that electric vehicle sales in the UK grew by 18% year-on-year in early 2024, even as overall car sales plateaued. That suggests a growing appetite for EVs—especially among buyers who value luxury, technology, and sustainability.
What Sets the Range Rover Electric Apart From Other EVs?
It’s easy to get lost in the specs and features, but what really sets the Range Rover Electric apart is its sense of identity. This isn’t a generic electric SUV with a fancy badge. It’s a Range Rover through and through—built to handle the rough stuff, pamper its occupants, and turn heads wherever it goes.
JLR’s engineers have spent years fine-tuning the electric model to ensure it meets the same standards as its petrol and diesel siblings. That means rigorous off-road testing, obsessive attention to detail, and a relentless focus on quality. The result? An EV that feels every bit as special as the Range Rovers that came before it.
What’s the Big Takeaway for Potential Buyers?
Here’s the bottom line: the Range Rover Electric isn’t about chasing trends or ticking boxes. It’s about expanding the Range Rover family in a way that feels natural and authentic. If you’re looking for a luxury SUV that just happens to be electric—without sacrificing capability, comfort, or character—this could be the one to watch.
The big takeaway? Making the switch to electric luxury isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.