Range Rover's New Velar Morphs into a Sedan, May Ditch Rear Window
The next-generation Range Rover Velar is expected to arrive in all-electric and hybrid forms, with a new design that resembles a high-riding sedan.
Key Takeaways
- The new Range Rover Velar will have a sedan-like design, similar to the Polestar 4.
- An electric variant will rival the BMW iX3, Mercedes GLC EQ, and Volvo EX60.
- The new Velar will be underpinned by Jaguar Land Rover’s EMA platform.
- The design was penned by Gerry McGovern before he left Jaguar Land Rover.
- The new model may not wear the Velar name, as JLR works to carve Discovery, Range Rover, Defender, and Jaguar into distinct brand families.
What’s Behind the New Velar’s Sedan-Like Design?
The new Range Rover Velar’s design is a significant departure from its predecessor, with a more sedan-like profile. This change in design direction is likely intended to help the Velar compete with electric sedans like the BMW i3 and electric Mercedes-Benz C-Class, as well as their SUV equivalents.
The decision to ditch the current Velar’s more traditional SUV shape may also be driven by the need to create a more distinct brand identity for Range Rover. As JLR works to carve Discovery, Range Rover, Defender, and Jaguar into distinct brand families, the new Velar’s design may be seen as a key part of this effort.
How Does the New Velar Compare to Its Rivals?
The electric variant of the new Velar will rival the BMW iX3, Mercedes GLC EQ, and Volvo EX60. While specifics about the Velar’s powertrains are not yet known, the EMA platform is expected to include an 800-volt electrical architecture. This could give the Velar a competitive edge in terms of performance and range.
The new Velar’s design may also give it an advantage in terms of interior space. By ditching the conventional rear screen and relying on a rear-view camera, the automaker may be able to free up rear headroom and create a more spacious interior.
What’s the Significance of the EMA Platform?
The new Velar will be the first Jaguar Land Rover product built on the EMA platform. This architecture was originally drawn up to handle electric powertrains alone, but it will also accommodate hybrid powertrains. This flexibility could give JLR a competitive edge in terms of powertrain options and help the Velar appeal to a wider range of buyers.
Why Does JLR Need the New Velar to Work?
JLR needs the new Velar to be a success, as it will be the first all-new model since PB Balaji took the lead of the company. The Velar is expected to sell in higher volumes than the full-size Range Rover and the Land Rover Defender, in part owing to its more approachable price tag.
The new Velar’s success is also crucial for JLR’s efforts to establish itself as a major player in the electric vehicle market. With the EMA platform and a range of powertrain options, the Velar could be a key model in JLR’s electrification strategy.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Platform | Jaguar Land Rover’s EMA platform |
| Electrical Architecture | 800-volt |
| Powertrains | Electric and hybrid |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the new Range Rover Velar’s design like?
The new Velar has a sedan-like design, similar to the Polestar 4. It is expected to have a more streamlined profile than its predecessor, with a focus on creating a more spacious interior.
Q: What powertrains will the new Velar offer?
The new Velar will offer electric and hybrid powertrains, built on the EMA platform. The platform includes an 800-volt electrical architecture, which could give the Velar a competitive edge in terms of performance and range.
Q: Why is the new Velar important for JLR?
The new Velar is crucial for JLR’s efforts to establish itself as a major player in the electric vehicle market. It is also expected to sell in higher volumes than the full-size Range Rover and the Land Rover Defender, in part owing to its more approachable price tag.
