JLR is driving the first Range Rover Electric prototype in some of the world's most challenging locations. As the brand's first all-electric vehicle, the Range Rover Electric is set to lead the way in powerful electrified driving performance and a sophisticated, luxurious driving experience. The prototype Range Rover Electric is currently undergoing performance testing in a range of extreme climates, from the Arctic Circle where temperatures can reach minus 40°C to the heat of the Middle Eastern desert where temperatures can soar into the high 50s.
The first phase of testing focused on battery capacity and electric drive unit (EDU) performance in ultra-low temperature environments down to minus 40°C. The battery and EDU are key components that directly impact the performance of an electric vehicle, along with the transmission, electric motor and electric powertrain. For the first time in the brand's history, JLR assembles and produces both the battery and EDU in-house.
The tests on an icy lake in Sweden demonstrated the performance of Range Rover's new all-electric drive system, which has been developed in-house, and confirmed that it is capable of maintaining the unrivalled 'all-terrain, all-weather capability' that has made Range Rover's reputation for tough driving conditions so strong, across all terrains, weather conditions and road surfaces.
The new traction control system, a first for Range Rover, also provides excellent performance on icy roads and low-grip surfaces. Unlike conventional traction control set-ups that are based entirely on ABS units, Range Rover Electric's new traction control system dramatically reduces the torque response time to each wheel from around 0.1 to within 0.001 seconds in wheel slip situations, with each individual electrically driven control unit managing the situation directly.
The innovative software, developed in-house by JLR, precisely controls wheel slip through precise EDU speed control, reducing the need for ABS intervention. This responsiveness and sophisticated configuration also significantly enhances the overall driving experience of the Range Rover by maximising driveability in any road condition. The system works in harmony with the stability control and chassis systems to provide an overall more sophisticated driving experience.
"Range Rover Electric combines the luxury, refinement and performance of a Range Rover with a virtually silent, pure electric powertrain for a smooth and carefree journey," said Thomas Mueller, JLR's Executive Director of Product Engineering. "We are closely following all physical testing and development programmes to ensure perfection. We have designed every programme to ensure that Range Rover Electric performs to its full potential, and we will be able to guarantee an unparalleled level of performance when it officially launches."
Article roadtesting editorial (dhseo1208@gmail.com)
Photo JLR