Range Rover Electric First Drive: Silent Luxury, Serious Ability

The Range Rover has always been the luxury SUV against which all others are judged. Now it has gone electric — and after a first drive, we can report that silence suits it rather well. This is silent luxury with serious ability intact.

The headline figures: dual motors producing in the region of 500hp and 627 lb ft of torque, 0–62mph in around 4.5 seconds, and a 117kWh battery targeting over 300 miles of WLTP range. 800-volt architecture means rapid charging at up to 270kW — roughly 10–80% in under 30 minutes on a fast enough charger.

Range Rover Electric on the road

On the road, the first thing you notice is the quiet. Range Rover has long chased refinement, and removing the engine reveals a cabin so hushed it feels like a recording studio. Wind and road noise are superbly suppressed, the air suspension glides over broken surfaces, and the instant torque makes effortless progress of every journey. It is, quite simply, the most relaxing way to travel we have experienced this year.

But this is a Range Rover, so the question that matters is: can it still go anywhere? The answer is emphatically yes. Wade sensing, Terrain Response 2, low-range gearing (simulated, but effective) and height-adjustable air suspension are all present. Land Rover's engineers are adamant the Electric will match its combustion siblings off-road — and on the evidence of a muddy test track, they are not bluffing.

Inside, it is business as usual in the best way: sumptuous materials, peerless comfort, and the commanding driving position that has defined the model for decades. The EV-specific changes are subtle — a revised interface showing range and charging, and clever packaging that preserves the flat load bay.

There are caveats. It is expensive — expect prices from around £130,000, well into flagship territory. It is also heavy, as all big EVs are, and towing range will take a meaningful hit. Charging infrastructure remains the long-distance question mark, though the 800-volt system helps.

Verdict: the Range Rover Electric is the complete luxury SUV, electrified without compromise. Silent, sumptuous and still properly capable off-road, it sets the standard every rival must now chase. Rating: 4.5/5.

FAQ

What is the range of the Range Rover Electric? Over 300 miles on the WLTP cycle from its 117kWh battery, with 270kW rapid charging.

Can the electric Range Rover go off-road? Yes — it retains Terrain Response, wade sensing and height-adjustable air suspension, matching the combustion models' ability.

How much does it cost? UK prices are expected to start from around £130,000.