By Xolile Hopa

Range Rover has launched its first fully electric Sport model, promising sharper performance than its petrol and diesel predecessors, after putting the SUV through a tough test in Italy’s marble quarries.

Order books are open now for the Range Rover Sport Electric, which keeps the model’s familiar muscular design and off-road ability while adding a stiffer chassis and a faster drivetrain. It joins the existing Range Rover Sport line-up alongside the plug-in hybrid, petrol and diesel versions.

Performance

Two electric motors combine for 404kW and 850Nm of torque, the most of any Range Rover Sport to date. In Dynamic Launch Mode, it can sprint from 0-100km/h in as little as 4.3 seconds matching the performance of the petrol-powered V8 model.

The body is 61% stiffer than the plug-in hybrid version, and the centre of gravity sits 73mm lower, giving it sharper, more agile handling. Technology on board includes adaptive suspension, twin valve dampers, electronic active roll control and all-wheel steering, all designed to keep the SUV composed through corners.

Range and charging

A 118.5kWh battery offers a claimed range of up to 609km with Range Rover citing a more realistic 535km in everyday driving conditions. The SUV uses an 800-volt electrical system that supports fast charging.Range Rover says it can add up to 220km of range in just 10 minutes or take the battery from 10% to 80% in around 22 minutes.

Despite going electric, it hasn’t lost its off-road credentials. The Sport Electric is still rated to wade through water up to 900mm deep and climb inclines of up to 45 degrees.

Testing in Italy

To prove its capability, Range Rover tested the vehicle in the Carrara marble quarries in Italy, where it tackled steep 45-degree gradients and surfaces ranging from polished marble to loose marble dust. The route is part of a long tradition of tough proving grounds for the Sport which has previously set a record time up the US’s Pikes Peak Hill Climb.

“It feels smaller, more planted and more responsive than you would imagine,” said Matt Becker, Vehicle Engineering Director at Range Rover, “all without sacrificing refinement, comfort or breadth of capability.”

Pricing and availability

Range Rover Sport Electric Dynamic SE is priced at R3,291,100

Range Rover Sport Electric First Edition is priced at R3,609,200

The range includes four specification levels,Dynamic SE, Dynamic HSE, Autobiography and First Edition. Autobiography buyers also get access to the Range Rover Bespoke personalisation service,this offers an extended choice of colours, materials and finishes.

The Sport Electric is built in Solihull, UK, on the same production line as the petrol, diesel and hybrid versions of the Sport. Its battery is backed by an eight-year or 160,000km warranty.