RANGE ROVER: A HISTORY

In order to keep the prototype for the first ever Range Rover a closely-guarded secret, the designers and engineers behind this revolutionary new vehicle gave the top-secret prototype the name ‘Velar ’, derived from the Italian word ‘velare’, meaning to veil or cover. The first 26 prototypes were even fitted with a badge of the same name to disguise its identity.

Following the successful testing of the Velar concept vehicle, the first Range Rover was revealed to the world. It was met with widespread critical acclaim, thanks to rare combination of capability and elegant design. It was the first vehicle to deliver permanent 4 Wheel Drive and feature split tailgate, clamshell bonnet and continuous waistline

After 11 years on the market, the Range Rover Classic was made available as a four-door vehicle, giving greater options to the vehicle’s ever-growing fan base.

More luxurious than its predecessor, the design accents of the second generation vehicle, such as the iconic silhouette and the introduction of rectangular headlamps in place of the circular ones have stood the test of time, making the vehicle instantly recognisable to the present day.

Ever evolving, this Range Rover was the first to be built with a monocoque single shell body. The design inspiration for the hull was taken from the tapering of The Italian Riva speedboat, while the pulleys on the luxury yacht prompted the metallic finishes inside the vehicle.

The Stormer concept car would become known for showcasing the future design direction of Range Rover, as well as the bold approach to the adoption of new technology within the vehicles.

The introduction of the first sports SUV in the Range Rover family showed Land Rover’s commitment to performance. Engine options included a Supercharged 4.2 l Petrol engine which delivered rapid performance. The Range Rover Sport also offered cross-linked air suspension, giving drivers optional ride height, which optimised comfort and 4x4 driving, both on and off-road. The varying height was one of the many distinctive new features which reflected the dynamic performance in the appearance of the vehicle.

The fourth incarnation of the Range Rover was the first to feature a lightweight all-aluminium body and was instantly recognisable due to its long wheelbase and floating roof. The vehicle also featured the next-generation version of Land Rover's Terrain Response® system. This in-built driving technology automatically selects the best vehicle setting for the terrain.

Engineered to deliver a high performance SUV with optimum power, the Range Rover Sport SVR was the first to be produced by the Special Vehicle Operations Team. As the fastest Land Rover ever, the vehicle offers an unforgettable drive. The vehicle’s power is reflected in design features such as the quad tailpipes and unique rear spoiler.

The pinnacle of refinement and luxury, the Range Rover SVAutobiography redefined the Range Rover experience. Attention to detail shows in the Brushed Aluminum finishes and the executive seating in the cabin. On the exterior, a unique choice of colour palette ensured drivers were getting the ultimate luxury experience synonymous with Range Rover. The SVAutobiography Dynamic was introduced shortly after, and with its distinctive design and powerful V8 engine the vehicle’s stance reflected its power and agility.

From the top-secret Velar concept vehicle to the first ever Range Rover Evoque Convertible, the evolution of the Range Rover is clear. Never compromising on capability, the luxury SUV continues to set the bar in car design, capability and performance.

A new addition to the Range Rover family is revealed. With its compelling clean lines and visionary design cues, the Range Rover Velar promises to deliver an SUV with the same effortless capability, luxury and refinement expected of all our vehicles.

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) wore the Range Rover badge for the first time. Both offered all the luxury and capability customers expected, plus the benefit of whisper-quiet electric running with zero tailpipe emissions. The Range Rover Sport Plug-in Hybrid became the first vehicle to climb the towering 45-degree, 999-step staircase to Heaven's Gate in China.

Range Rover electrified again, this time with mild hybrid technology, in the Range Rover Sport HST. Its new 400PS Ingenium petrol engine added straight-six balance and refinement to the line-up, with mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) power for enhanced efficiency and performance. The HST model features a range of unique interior and exterior design enhancements.

Range Rover marks its half-century with the highly desirable ‘Fifty’ special edition, limited to 1970 examples. Built on the luxuriously appointed Autobiography model, it has exclusive interior detailing and bespoke 55.88 cm (22) wheels. Land Rover Special Vehicles customers can even specify one of three original launch colours: Tuscan Blue, Bahama Gold or Davos White.