It is no news that the flagship Range Rover EV will be revealed this year, but it is not the only electric Range Rover model debuting in 2026. The Range Rover Velar EV, expected to be unveiled later this year, will serve as the second generation for the Velar nameplate, which has been on sale since 2017 in an ICE-only avatar.
- Will be positioned lower than the flagship Range Rover EV
- Spy shots have revealed a coupe-SUV-like design
- Likely to be the first model built on the new EMA platform
Where will the Range Rover Velar EV be positioned?
Placement in the line-up will be similar to that of the ICE model
Currently, the Range Rover Velar, in its combustion-powered version, sits between the compact Evoque and the larger Range Rover Sport. This positioning will be followed by the respective EV version as well. The Velar EV is expected to be revealed soon after the flagship Range Rover model breaks cover in a few months, followed by the debut of the all-electric Evoque, likely in 2027. The all-electric Range Rover Velar will be the manufacturer’s answer to the Porsche Macan EV.
Range Rover Velar EV: All we know so far
Spy shots have revealed a coupe-SUV-like exterior design
Camouflaged test mules of the Velar EV spied abroad have previewed some of the design cues, including distinctive flat haunches, a prominent crease along the sides and a front panel that mimics the shape of the current Velar’s grille. The pictures also suggest a sweptback headlight design, flush-type door handles and a more prominent shoulder line. The major update, however, is at the rear, where the sloping roofline makes it seem like the Velar EV ditches a traditional SUV look for a more fastback design. It can also be made out that the slimmer tail-lights will be connected via a plaque with ‘Range Rover’ lettering, like on the Sport.
One possible reason for this visual overhaul could be that the Velar EV is likely to be the most road-focused offering in the Range Rover line-up, similar to the ICE version. This bold design approach could hence allow the manufacturer to adopt a contemporary aesthetic without compromising aerodynamics.
Likely to be the first model to be built on the EMA platform
The Range Rover Velar EV could be the first model to be underpinned by JLR’s new 800V EMA platform, which will also underpin the upcoming Avinya range of Tata Motors. The platform supports ultra-fast charging, cloud connectivity and Level 2+ ADAS, with a flat floor for enhanced interior space.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Glenn Noronha
Dhruv Dhaka
