The upcoming Range Rover Electric is undergoing rigorous testing in extreme conditions, from freezing Arctic temperatures to scorching Middle Eastern deserts. Initial trials focus on evaluating the battery and Electric Drive Unit (EDU), and core components, which have been assembled in-house, for the first time, by Jaguar Land Rover.
The firm says that tests on frozen Swedish lakes have showcased the vehicle’s new all-electric propulsion system, which has been designed to enhance performance on low-grip surfaces. At the same time, a “groundbreaking” traction control system, a first for a Range Rover, delegates wheel slip management directly to individual electric drive control units, drastically reducing reaction times.
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According to the British luxury marque, the in-house-developed software enables precise control over wheel slip, minimising the need for ABS intervention and maximising traction on all surfaces. This system, in conjunction with stability control and chassis setups, “enhances” the overall driving experience, maintaining Range Rover’s reputation for “unparalleled” all-terrain capability.
“Range Rover with electric power means customary Range Rover luxury, refinement and capability plus near-silent fully electric propulsion; with effortlessly smooth and relaxed journeys,” said Thomas Mueller, Executive Director of Product Engineering at Jaguar Land Rover.
“To ensure we leave no stone uncovered, we are well underway with our physical testing and development programme, all designed to push Range Rover Electric to the extremes to ensure its capability remains unparalleled when it reaches you.”