One of Jaguar Land Rover’s upcoming next-generation electric SUVs has been spotted testing for the very first time, providing us with initial insights into what the next phase of the automaker’s evolution may entail.
The test vehicle’s low-slung design suggests a potential focus on highway performance rather than off-road capability. This implies that it may not be the flagship Range Rover, which is expected to retain its tall, boxy, and off-road-oriented design. Instead, it’s speculated to be the successor to the Range Rover Velar, although it’s unclear if it will retain the same nameplate.
The prototype is concealed under heavy camouflage, obscuring many of its details. Nonetheless, the new model exhibits a noticeably lower roofline and sleek profile, with the lengthened rear overhang indicating potential space for a third row of seats. An unusual kink in the roofline suggests concealed components, possibly sensors for the vehicle’s driver assistance systems.
Read: Jaguar Land Rover Scales Back EV Plans To Focus On Hybrids
When JLR announced its forthcoming range of electric vehicles in 2021, it pledged to introduce six EVs by 2026, including two Jaguars. However, it has since revised this plan to four EVs, though it remains unclear which specific models have been delayed.
The British automaker is likely prioritizing the launch of the larger Range Rover before unveiling the electric Velar replacement, as indicated by teasers released late last year. Similar to the next-gen Evoque, the smaller EV is anticipated to utilize the EMA platform, with production believed to commence before the end of 2025. Positioned to compete with the Porsche Macan EV, the next-generation Velar will serve as a luxurious electric SUV with a greater emphasis on on-road performance compared to models like the Range Rover.
The automaker has decided to treat Jaguar, Discovery, Defender, and Range Rover as their own brands. That will mean that each line has its own design language, and this test vehicle provides us with our first look at what the Range Rover brand has planned for the future.
JLR has yet to provide the world with official specifications for its upcoming EVs. However, it has said that the all-electric Range Rover’s performance will be on-par with the current flagship Ranger Rover V8, will have an 800-volt architecture, and will feature towing, wading, and off-roading technology that will “surpass any other luxury electric SUV.”
