Land Rover is preparing a major overhaul of its Velar crossover, with spy photos confirming a shift towards a fully electric powertrain and a dramatically sleeker design. The next-generation Velar, expected to debut later this year, will be a test case for Land Rover as it pushes deeper into the EV market.
Sleek New Exterior
Camouflaged prototypes reveal a rounded front end with a completely enclosed grille and thin headlights. The hood slopes down into a wide air intake, enhancing the vehicle’s aerodynamic profile. The Velar’s most striking feature is its aggressively raked windscreen and steeply sloping roofline, giving it a coupe-like silhouette.
However, this design comes with potential tradeoffs: cargo space and rear-seat headroom may be reduced. Flush door handles, streamlined bodywork, and a rear-mounted charging port further underscore the electric transition. The rear end features a distinctive upright liftgate and wraparound taillights. Intriguingly, the absence of a visible rear window in some prototypes suggests Land Rover might follow Jaguar’s lead and replace it with a camera-based system.
Powertrain Details
While Land Rover has focused marketing on the Range Rover Electric, the Velar will likely share key components. The model is expected to utilize Land Rover’s new electrified modular architecture (EMA), built at the Halewood plant.
A dual-motor all-wheel drive system with approximately 542 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque is a strong possibility. The Velar could also feature a 117 kWh battery pack, similar to the Range Rover Electric. Multiple configurations are expected to provide options for different buyers.
What This Means
Land Rover’s move to electrify the Velar is significant because it signals a willingness to push beyond luxury EVs like the Range Rover. The Velar is a popular crossover, and its EV version will test whether mainstream Land Rover fans are ready to embrace all-electric models. This shift is driven by stricter emissions regulations and growing consumer demand for electric vehicles, forcing even traditionally combustion-engine brands to adapt. The Velar’s success will be a key indicator of Land Rover’s future in the EV landscape.
The redesigned Velar is a bold step for Land Rover, prioritizing style and electric performance. It’s a clear message that the brand is committed to electrification, even if it means sacrificing some traditional practicality.
