Land Rover Introduces 420kg Lighter Range Rover

Land RoverLand RoverUnited Kingdom, 1978 > present15 models
1742 photos
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has introduced a new, fourth generation Range RoverLand Rover Range Rover (modern)United Kingdom, 1995 > present3 series
57 versions
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that has been designed in England and will be built there. The truck cuts 430kg off the weight of the current generationLand Rover Range Rover (modern) Gen.3 [L322]United Kingdom, 2002 > 201243 versions
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. Much of that weight loss comes from a brand new aluminum monocoque.

The design of the car is an update of the current Range Rover. The major change is in the front with wrap-around headlights. It is still a quite crisp and masculine design. Although it is more of an evolution of the current car, it still appears modern.

"Our design team worked incredibly hard to capture the elegant proportions and pure surfaces which have been a feature of the best Range Rover designs,” said Gerry McGovern, Land Rover Design Director and Chief Creative Officer.

Land Rover claims that the aluminum monocoque alone is 39% lighter than the previous steel chassis. Performance specifications have not been released, but the lighter weight will translate to better handling, better performance and better efficiency. The sub-frames for the front and rear suspension are also aluminum, which will cut weight even more.

The fourth generation Range Rover has a re-engineered air suspension at all corners. Land Rover says that the car has a flatter, more car-like ride and better steering feel than previously. It also has a new generation of Land Rover’s Terrain Response traction control system that adapts the suspension to the environment.

Engines will be carried over for now in the new truck, but fuel economy should improve due to the lower weight.

Inside, passengers have 118mm more legroom and more comfortable rear seats. Land Rover will offer the truck with an Executive Class seating package in the rear that replaces the rear bench with two captain’s chairs.

Land Rover says that it has subjected the new Range Rover to 18 months of tests in 20 countries to ensure that it will be capable and reliable.

"The new Range Rover preserves the essential, unique character of the vehicle - that special blend of luxury, performance and unmatched all-terrain capability.  However, its clean sheet design and revolutionary lightweight construction have enabled us to transform the experience for luxury vehicle customers, with a step change in comfort, refinement and handling," said John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director.

The fourth generation Range Rover will be built at Land Rover’s Solihull, UK, factory. Land Rover will begin taking orders in September and deliveries will begin in early 2013.

Land Rover will present the technical details about the Range Rover on September 27 at the Paris Motor Show.