
Canadian car enthusiasts will soon get to experience the highly anticipated Range Rover Electric and the smaller Sport model, expected to launch later this year. The Defender, a best-selling brand, is also set to unveil its first electric SUV, which could be an even bigger hit in the Canadian market. With the federal government's iZEV incentives and provincial rebates, such as those offered in British Columbia and Quebec, Canadian buyers may be eligible for rebates of up to $5,000 when purchasing these new electric vehicles.
During a recent investor meeting, Jaguar Land Rover's CEO, PB Balaji, revealed the company's updated business strategy, focusing on the Range Rover and Defender brands to achieve double-digit revenue growth. Although initial plans involved phasing out combustion engines, the updated plan now includes more hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models, in addition to electric vehicles. The Range Rover Electric and smaller Sport model will still launch later this year, featuring hybrid, PHEV, and EV powertrain options on the company's MLA platform. Canadian pricing for these models has not been officially announced, but it is expected to be competitive with other luxury electric vehicles in the market.
The Defender Electric will be the second vehicle built on Jaguar Land Rover's EMA platform, which was designed as a dedicated electric vehicle platform. However, the company now plans to launch hybrids on this platform as well. The EMA platform is expected to support battery packs ranging from 70 to 90 kWh, providing a range of approximately 480 to 515 kilometres. The Defender Electric will likely be more affordable than the Range Rover Electric, with prices expected to start at around $67,500 to $84,000. Canadian buyers can expect to see these models at dealerships across the country, with the possibility of test driving them at select centres.
The Range Rover Electric will feature a 117-kWh battery, providing a driving range of at least 480 kilometres. It will be equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, delivering a combined 542 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, enabling it to tow over 3,500 kilograms. The electric SUV will also include several new features, such as single-pedal driving and a twin-chamber air suspension, making it suitable for both on- and off-road driving in Canada's diverse landscapes. With its instant torque delivery and lower centre of gravity, the Range Rover Electric is expected to provide a unique driving experience, perfect for navigating Canada's rugged terrain.