Range Rover has released new images of its all-electric flagship undergoing cold weather testing in the Arctic Circle, showing the vehicle without camouflage as it tackles steep snowy inclines and frozen lakes.
Engineers are working to refine the SUV’s systems ahead of its launch, with particular focus on the new “ThermAssist” technology designed to maintain range and charging performance in extreme cold.
The thermal management system reduces heating energy consumption by up to 40% and recovers heat to warm the propulsion system or cabin in temperatures as low as -10C.
Thomas Müller, executive director of product engineering at JLR, said: “Rigorous testing procedures in extreme and unpredictable conditions like those experienced in Arjeplog are crucial to Range Rover Electric’s real-world reliability and resilience.
“Our second winter season in the Arctic Circle has provided the perfect opportunity for us to put our new ThermAssistTM technology to the test, and it has surpassed our expectations. It will help to ensure Range Rover Electric’s range remains intelligently optimised while also ensuring charging speeds are maintained when a top-up is required.”
Range Rover has confirmed the electric model will use a 117kWh battery with cell-to-pack construction, developed and built entirely in-house at JLR.
While official range figures haven’t been announced, the comparable Mercedes G580 offers around 300 miles from its similar 116kWh battery.
Power and performance details remain under wraps, but industry experts expect output comparable to the 523bhp V8 version currently on sale.
Off-Road Capability Testing
At the Arjeplog testing grounds in Sweden, engineers have been evaluating the vehicle’s new suspension and four-wheel-drive systems, including Terrain Response settings specifically developed for the electric powertrain.
The one-pedal driving mode has been calibrated to provide regenerative braking even in challenging off-road scenarios, automatically engaging hill hold when needed.
Range Rover claims its new torque management systems allow for quicker and more precise power distribution across all four wheels than any internal combustion engine equivalent. The “Intelligent Driveline Dynamics” technology and traction control can manage wheel slip up to 100 times faster than conventional vehicles.
The air suspension has been re-engineered with a twin-chamber system to handle the additional weight and unique weight distribution of the electric version.
This Arctic testing follows similar evaluation conducted in the desert heat of the United Arab Emirates last year, ensuring the vehicle performs in all extreme conditions.
