Unlike previous camouflaged sightings, this prototype is presented without any disguise, emphasizing the exceptional build quality of the initial models. Painted entirely in black and lacking the distinctive matt trim typically associated with EV powertrains, the prototype closely resembles the existing ICE Range Rover introduced in 2022.

JLR affirms that the electric model’s design language remains faithful to the Range Rover heritage, with subtle distinctions expected from its internal combustion engine counterparts. This approach mirrors Mercedes-Benz’s strategy for the electric G-Class, set to debut at the Beijing Motor Show, retaining much of its traditional design cues.

Focus is currently on evaluating the performance of critical components like the gearbox, electric motors, and electronics under extreme conditions. The Range Rover Electric will utilize an 800V charging system and feature a dual-motor setup for enhanced four-wheel-drive capabilities and off-road prowess.

Production of the Range Rover Electric will commence at Solihull, UK, alongside existing mild-hybrid and PHEV variants. Initially, it will utilize batteries from external suppliers before transitioning to in-house packs from Tata’s upcoming Somerset gigafactory.

Tata Motors’ significant investment in Tamil Nadu for an EV plant underscores a broader strategy to accommodate evolving regulatory demands, potentially including production shifts of JLR’s ICE models to India.

Focus on LFP Cell Production

Hyundai and Kia are emphasizing on lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) cell production as they enter the Indian EV market. The collaboration with Exide Energy Solutions marks a strategic step to establish leadership in India in integrating domestically manufactured batteries into their EV lineup.

About Exide Energy Solutions

Exide Industries, with over 75 years of market experience, is a renowned supplier of Lead-Acid Batteries in India. Its subsidiary, Exide Energy Solutions, established in 2022, specializes in the manufacturing of lithium-ion cells, modules and packs, offering a variety of chemistries and form factors.

Expanding Battery Development and Production

In a joint statement, Hyundai and Kia expressed their commitment to expand battery development, production, supply and partnership in India through this collaboration with Exide Energy Solutions. Recognizing India’s importance in the global automotive market, especially EV production and sales, the companies aim to strengthen their presence in the growing Indian EV segment.

Current and Future EV Offerings

Currently, Hyundai offers the Kona and Ioniq 5 electric cars in India, while Kia has introduced the popular EV6 model. Looking to the future, both the automakers are planning to introduce a variety of electric models to suit the Indian market, reflecting the increasing competition in the EV segment.

By localizing EV battery manufacturing with Exide Energy Solutions, Hyundai and Kia aim to leverage the growing demand for electric vehicles in India while contributing to the country’s efforts towards sustainable mobility.

Featuring a 102kWh battery pack, the Spectre promises a WLTP cycle range of 530km. Charging from 10 to 80 percent can be accomplished in 34 minutes with a 195kW charger, or in 95 minutes with a 50kW DC charger. Powered by two electric motors—one on each axle—the Spectre generates a combined output of 585hp and 900Nm, propelling the 2,890kg vehicle to 100kph in just 4.5 seconds.

Built on Rolls-Royce’s Aluminium Spaceframe Architecture, known as the Architecture of Luxury, the Spectre shares its foundation with current models like the Phantom, Cullinan, and Ghost, having been engineered for electric capabilities from its inception. The vehicle boasts a 30 percent increase in stiffness compared to previous Rolls-Royce iterations, featuring active suspension and four-wheel steering.

Inspired by contemporary yacht concepts, the Spectre showcases a striking design, highlighted by its widest-ever grille with aerodynamic efficiency in mind, boasting 22 LEDs for soft nighttime illumination. The Spirit of Ecstasy emblem has also been aerodynamically optimized, contributing to the Spectre’s remarkable drag coefficient of 0.25, making it the most aerodynamic Rolls-Royce to date.

The introduction of the Spectre marks a significant milestone in Rolls-Royce’s ambition to transition to an all-electric brand by 2030. Serving as the sole coupe in the lineup following the conclusion of Dawn production, the Spectre represents a pivotal step in the luxury automaker’s electrification journey.