What Should Power My Next New Range Rover or Land Rover?
02/04/25
Choosing the right powertrain for your next Range Rover or Land Rover is a big decision. With advancements in technology, shifting regulations and increasing environmental awareness, the options have never been more varied—or more complex. So, what’s the best choice? Should you stick with internal combustion, go electric, opt for a hybrid, or even consider hydrogen power? Let’s break it down.
Are Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) Still Acceptable?
For years, petrol and diesel engines have been the backbone of Land Rover vehicles, delivering power, range, and reliability. Modern ICE engines are more efficient than ever, with reduced emissions and improved fuel economy. However, with government regulations tightening and many cities introducing low-emission zones, traditional combustion engines face growing restrictions. While they remain practical for long-distance and off-road use, they may not be the best long-term investment as bans on new petrol and diesel car sales loom in the UK by 2030.
Do Electric Vehicles (EVs) Really Work for Land Rovers?
EVs are rapidly improving, and Land Rover has already entered the electric game with models like the Range Rover Electric, which launched in 2024. These vehicles offer instant torque, silent operation, and zero tailpipe emissions. But are they truly zero-emission? While EVs produce no direct emissions, their environmental impact depends on how the electricity is generated. If charged using renewable energy, the carbon footprint is significantly lower than that of fossil fuel-powered vehicles. However, battery production (particularly lithium mining) has its own environmental concerns. Additionally, range anxiety and charging infrastructure remain challenges, especially for those using their Land Rover for rural or off-road adventures.
What About Hybrids?
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) offer a middle ground, combining a traditional engine with an electric motor. Land Rover’s PHEV models, like the Range Rover P440e, deliver improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions while offering a limited all-electric range for short trips.
For those who need long-range capability but still want to reduce emissions, a hybrid can be a great compromise. However, they still rely on petrol or diesel, and as governments push for full electrification, their long-term viability remains uncertain.
Is Hydrogen Power a Viable Option?
Jaguar Land Rover previously explored hydrogen fuel cell technology under Project Zeus, which was initiated in 2021. This project aimed to develop a hydrogen-powered Defender prototype as part of the company's broader push toward zero-emission alternatives. However, due to infrastructure challenges and market conditions, JLR has since shifted its focus predominantly toward battery electric vehicles. While hydrogen remains a potential long-term solution, the company has deprioritized further development of fuel cell technology for now. That said, JLR continues to monitor advancements in hydrogen power and may revisit it as the technology and refuelling infrastructure improve.
Is the Government’s Zero Emission Mandate Achievable?
Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) are another alternative, producing only water as a byproduct. Land Rover has been exploring hydrogen technology, particularly for off-road applications where refuelling speed and range are critical. While hydrogen sounds like an ideal solution, the technology is still in its early stages. Infrastructure is a major hurdle—hydrogen refuelling stations are rare, and producing green hydrogen (from renewable sources) is expensive. Despite these challenges, hydrogen could play a role in Land Rover’s future, especially for heavy-duty and off-road applications.
The UK government has set ambitious targets to phase out new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030. Hybrid vehicles will be permitted until 2035, after which all new cars must be zero-emission. While the push toward zero emissions is necessary for combating climate change, there are significant hurdles to overcome. The infrastructure for EV charging and hydrogen refuelling needs vast improvements, battery production must become more sustainable, and alternative fuels must be made more accessible. For Land Rover owners who demand versatility, reliability, and off-road capability, the transition to zero-emission powertrains must be carefully managed. While fully electric and hydrogen-powered Land Rovers may become mainstream in the future, hybrids and advanced ICE engines still have a role to play in the present.
The Bottom Line
So, what should power your next Land Rover or Range Rover? It depends on your needs. If you want a future-proof, low-emission option and have access to charging infrastructure, an EV or PHEV might be the best choice. If you need long-range capability and off-road reliability, a hybrid or even a modern ICE engine may still be viable. And if you’re looking ahead to the next big breakthrough, hydrogen could be the game-changer.
The automotive landscape is evolving rapidly, and Land Rover is at the forefront of this transformation. Whatever you choose, the key is to balance performance, practicality, and sustainability while keeping an eye on future developments in vehicle technology.