The Velar name for the new Range Rover model is confirmed. Information is sparse, but it already allows for a first glimpse of the brand's new SUV.
When the first Range Rover was being developed in the 1960s, its engineers needed to hide the true identity of the 26 pre-production prototypes. Velar was the chosen name.
The name derives from the Latin velare, which in Portuguese means “to cover with a veil” or “to cover”. It is in this historical context that Range Rover presents us its new SUV.
The brand wants Velar to be a symbol of innovation. The same way the 1970 Range Rover innovated by being one of the pioneers of the luxury SUV. According to Gerry McGovern, Land Rover's design director:
We identify the Velar model as the avant-garde Range Rover. It adds a new dimension to the brand in terms of style, innovation and elegance. The new Range Rover Velar changes everything.
So what is the Range Rover Velar?
In essence, the new model fills the space between the Evoque and the Sport (see image below).
Extending the Range Rover range to four models, with rumors hinting at a close relationship with Jaguar's F-Pace. The Velar is said to use Jaguar's SUV IQ platform.
The Velar should be the most asphalt-oriented Range Rover ever and the Porsche Macan should be one of its main rivals. All Velars will have four-wheel drive, and will be produced in Solihull, where the Jaguar F-Pace and Range Rover Sport are already produced.