Range Rover is taking a leaf out of Lotus� book and adding lightness to its new flagship off-roader to dramatically improve fuel efficiency. The next generation of Range Rover is due to arrive this time in 2012, and will feature all-alloy construction for the first time.
The aluminium chassis will draw on Jaguar�s experience when building the current XJ. However, Land Rover�s engineers have done so much work to reinforce the car�s underpinnings and monocoque bodyshell that the firm calls it a separate platform. The chassis will also underpin the next Range Rover Sport, which currently uses the Discovery's mechanicals.
The Range Rover will become the world�s first all-alloy off-roader, ensuring that the newcomer stays ahead of the pack. The firm is targeting a weight cut of over 400kg, taking the kerbweight closer to 2,100kg.
As you can see from this engineering prototype, the newcomer�s wheelbase doesn�t change much from the current model. The finished car will feature a slightly longer set of dimensions in both the wheelbase and track, to liberate extra room inside.
And while the current car�s interior is among the best available on any luxury vehicle, the next Range Rover will feature a more spacious cabin, particularly in the rear, and a hike in quality of materials, fit and finish.
Designed by Gerry McGovern, the new Range Rover will feature the clamshell bonnet, floating roof and jewel-like lights of the current car, albeit with a lower roof and rounder front end to improved aerodynamics.
Engines will begin with improved TDV6 and TDV8 diesels which get stop-start for the first time, mated to an improved eight-speed auto gearbox. Petrol units will follow shortly after launch, followed by a diesel-electric hybrid.
Off-road performance will still be exemplary, with the latest generation of the firm�s Terrain Response system controlling the power delivery to keep you going whatever the landscape throws at you.
The aluminium chassis will draw on Jaguar�s experience when building the current XJ. However, Land Rover�s engineers have done so much work to reinforce the car�s underpinnings and monocoque bodyshell that the firm calls it a separate platform. The chassis will also underpin the next Range Rover Sport, which currently uses the Discovery's mechanicals.
The Range Rover will become the world�s first all-alloy off-roader, ensuring that the newcomer stays ahead of the pack. The firm is targeting a weight cut of over 400kg, taking the kerbweight closer to 2,100kg.
As you can see from this engineering prototype, the newcomer�s wheelbase doesn�t change much from the current model. The finished car will feature a slightly longer set of dimensions in both the wheelbase and track, to liberate extra room inside.
And while the current car�s interior is among the best available on any luxury vehicle, the next Range Rover will feature a more spacious cabin, particularly in the rear, and a hike in quality of materials, fit and finish.
Designed by Gerry McGovern, the new Range Rover will feature the clamshell bonnet, floating roof and jewel-like lights of the current car, albeit with a lower roof and rounder front end to improved aerodynamics.
Engines will begin with improved TDV6 and TDV8 diesels which get stop-start for the first time, mated to an improved eight-speed auto gearbox. Petrol units will follow shortly after launch, followed by a diesel-electric hybrid.
Off-road performance will still be exemplary, with the latest generation of the firm�s Terrain Response system controlling the power delivery to keep you going whatever the landscape throws at you.
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