Range Rover Electric Prototype Tested For The Second Time In Arctic Circle

Range Rover's upcoming electric SUV has demonstrated impressive performance during its latest winter testing programme in Sweden's Arctic Circle. The prototypes underwent rigorous testing in the extreme cold of northern Europe, accumulating up to 72,420 km across frozen lakes and land tracks. This harsh environment provided ideal conditions for engineers to evaluate the vehicle's advanced thermal management system and refine its driving dynamics.

A highlight of the testing was the validation of Range Rover's new ThermAssist technology. This advanced thermal management system helps reduce heating energy consumption by up to 40 per cent. The system recovers heat to warm the propulsion system or cabin in temperatures as low as -10 degree centigrade. This also helps to optimise driving range in cold conditions while maintaining charging capabilities and ensuring passenger comfort.

The Range Rover Prototypes were powered by a 117 kWh battery which had been developed in-house by Jaguar Land Rover. The battery consists of 344 prismatic cells in a double-stacked layout, using cell-to-pack architecture to maximise performance, energy density and range while optimising charging times.

There are several other technologies on offer as well that helps maintain the brand's signature refinement and all-terrain capability. These include enhanced single pedal driving that works with the Terrain Response system. It can bring the vehicle to a complete stop and engage Hill-Hold, allowing drivers to move off again without touching the brake pedal. During testing, engineers evaluated this capability on both 28-degree and 17-degree split gradient inclines at the Arctic facility.

There’s also a switchable twin-chamber air suspension system specifically developed to manage the unique weight distribution of the electric powertrain. Plus, it’s all-wheel drive system has been designed to handle all surfaces with precise torque delivery.

Following this second season of winter testing in Arjeplog, the Range Rover Electric prototypes will continue its development programme before customer reservations begin.