Range Rover Unveils Electric GT Saloon, Shifting Away From SUV Roots

Range Rover is set to introduce its first conventional saloon-like vehicle, the electric GT, marking a significant departure from its traditional SUV lineup. This move represents the first time in the brand's nearly 60-year history that it will offer a vehicle that is not an SUV. The new model will join the existing Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Velar, and Evoque in the brand's family.

The Range Rover GT features a lower ride height and a svelte body, a stark contrast to the marque's signature rugged, high-ground-clearance vehicles. Company executives described the heavily camouflaged model as a "captivating new expression of Range Rover," noted to be similar in length to the current Range Rover Sport. The design is attributed to former design boss Jerry McGovern.

A Shift in Design and Powertrain

The GT's aerodynamic body is expected to enhance performance and driving range compared to the brand's SUV offerings. It is also touted as the "quietest Range Rover ever." This model will be the first all-electric Range Rover to utilize the Electrified Modular Architecture (EMA) platform, designed for mid-size premium vehicles. This differs from the MLA platform used for the forthcoming Range Rover Electric and Range Rover Sport Electric, and the JEA platform for Jaguar's upcoming EV-only models. All three platforms are designed to support various powertrains, including battery-electric and hybrid options.

Manufactured at JLR's Halewood factory, the GT will initially be available solely as a battery-electric vehicle. However, the platform's flexibility allows for a full hybrid version to be introduced later in its lifecycle. Martin Limpert, managing director of Range Rover, stated that the GT will be the "most car-like" Range Rover ever, aiming to redefine the grand-touring segment with a blend of performance, refinement, and Range Rover's characteristic capability.

Interior Design and Technology

The interior of the GT is characterized by a minimalist design ethos, focusing on "purity, precision and quiet modernity." Unlike some competitors that embrace extensive digital displays, Range Rover has opted for a more restrained approach with a single, modest-sized infotainment screen featuring OLED clarity. This screen is complemented by a head-up display that replaces the traditional instrument cluster, ensuring clear, non-duplicated information for the driver.

The central display is integrated into a new concealed air vent design, creating a clean horizontal line across the dashboard. The upper dashboard features a flush panel covered in a textile material that conceals speakers and the front passenger airbag. Alex Watkin, chief designer for Range Rover interiors, described the cabin as "lighter and highly modern," intended to evoke "the extension of a luxury home."

Physical buttons have been minimized, with most functions controlled via the infotainment system and steering wheel switches. Physical controls have been retained only where they "enhance tactility or safety," such as the hazard-warning light button. The center console features a bridged design with a sliding panel revealing a charging pad, a refrigerated storage compartment, and additional space for an iPad and cupholders.

The GT will be offered as standard with a four-seat configuration, including a rear console with a touchscreen for climate and seat controls. A five-seat option will also be available. The vehicle will feature the largest panoramic roof ever fitted to a Range Rover, providing increased headroom for rear passengers.

Future Information and Market Position

Prototype vehicles are currently undergoing final on-road testing. Range Rover has remained tight-lipped about specific performance details, including battery capacity, range, and pricing. However, to remain competitive, the GT will likely need a battery pack exceeding 100kW for a substantial driving range. The vehicle is expected to feature an all-wheel-drive setup and potentially height-adjustable suspension to maintain Range Rover's off-road capabilities.

More details are expected before the end of the calendar year. The introduction of the Range Rover GT comes as Jaguar prepares to launch its own controversial electric luxury saloon, the Type 01, suggesting increased competition between the two sister brands.