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Range Rover Electric: 'Don't change it, just make it better"

Range Rover Electric: 'Don't change it, just make it better"

The Advertiser17 hours ago
JLR is well down the path of introducing its first electric Range Rover, which is expected sometime next year, but the company's approach is as notable for how long it has taken to come to market as it is about the philosophical debate around electrification.
With JLR's previous electric vehicle (EV), the Jaguar I-Pace, not having performed well in both the sales and reliability charts, the company is adamant that this time it will wait until it's ready to release the Range Rover EV.
Rather than reimagining an all-new Range Rover, the company has opted to adapt its existing design and platform to accommodate an electric powertrain, a move summarised by its internal philosophy: "Don't change it, just make it better."
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
The electric variant sits on the same flexible platform as the petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid Range Rovers and come down the same production line.
It features a substantial 118kWh usable battery – comprising 344 prismatic cells using NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) chemistry – supplying energy to the dual-motor setup producing 404kW of power and 850Nm of torque.
The company claims the battery and the motors are designed and manufactured in-house, although the cells themselves likely come from BYD (Land Rover wouldn't confirm its battery supplier).
Despite the new drivetrain, key characteristics such as cabin layout, boot space, and off-road geometry remain unchanged. There's also no front boot, which the engineers told is deliberate as to not add elements customers don't need.
"This is about integrating electric propulsion into what is an established Range Rover design," said Lynfel Owen, chief engineer of vehicle engineering.
"So you know, the target was always, how do we look at today's cars, our combustion engines and everything we do today? How do we make that better with EV propulsion?"
The engineering team focused on maintaining performance and ride quality. According to Mr Owen, the Range Rover Electric benefits from upgraded suspension components – including dual-valve air springs and revised bushings – specifically tuned to handle the demands of an electric setup.
Torsional rigidity is also up, with this model claiming the title of the stiffest Range Rover to date.
While many EVs introduce entirely new driving experiences (like Mercedes-Benz's electric G-Wagen), Land Rover is banking on familiarity. Terrain modes from combustion models have been retained, and the company has developed its own intelligent traction control system (ITM) to manage torque across all four wheels.
The ITM system allows for millisecond-level torque vectoring between wheels, with cross-axle capability and the ability to emulate both two-wheel and four-wheel drive. It replaces traditional mechanical driveline components with software precision, providing finer control in both on- and off-road environments.
"We've optimised all of the terrain modes for Range Rover Electric," Mr Owen explained. "It's about making it actually comfortable off-road and reducing driver demand in challenging conditions."
The model also includes adaptive thermal management with a proprietary heat pump system designed to improve efficiency and comfort.
Land Rover says the system can operate in temperatures as low as -15°C, recovering waste heat to reduce energy consumption by up to 40 per cent compared with the brand's previous electric vehicle, the Jaguar I-Pace.
While other manufacturers often borrow EV components from shared platforms, Land Rover's vertically integrated approach reflects its aim to control the Range Rover Electric experience end to end. It may look familiar, but beneath the skin, this is the most technologically advanced model the company has built.
With more than 62,000 customers already expressing interest globally, the Range Rover Electric appears to be landing well with buyers looking for electrification without dramatic change.
MORE: Explore the Range Rover showroom
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
JLR is well down the path of introducing its first electric Range Rover, which is expected sometime next year, but the company's approach is as notable for how long it has taken to come to market as it is about the philosophical debate around electrification.
With JLR's previous electric vehicle (EV), the Jaguar I-Pace, not having performed well in both the sales and reliability charts, the company is adamant that this time it will wait until it's ready to release the Range Rover EV.
Rather than reimagining an all-new Range Rover, the company has opted to adapt its existing design and platform to accommodate an electric powertrain, a move summarised by its internal philosophy: "Don't change it, just make it better."
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
The electric variant sits on the same flexible platform as the petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid Range Rovers and come down the same production line.
It features a substantial 118kWh usable battery – comprising 344 prismatic cells using NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) chemistry – supplying energy to the dual-motor setup producing 404kW of power and 850Nm of torque.
The company claims the battery and the motors are designed and manufactured in-house, although the cells themselves likely come from BYD (Land Rover wouldn't confirm its battery supplier).
Despite the new drivetrain, key characteristics such as cabin layout, boot space, and off-road geometry remain unchanged. There's also no front boot, which the engineers told is deliberate as to not add elements customers don't need.
"This is about integrating electric propulsion into what is an established Range Rover design," said Lynfel Owen, chief engineer of vehicle engineering.
"So you know, the target was always, how do we look at today's cars, our combustion engines and everything we do today? How do we make that better with EV propulsion?"
The engineering team focused on maintaining performance and ride quality. According to Mr Owen, the Range Rover Electric benefits from upgraded suspension components – including dual-valve air springs and revised bushings – specifically tuned to handle the demands of an electric setup.
Torsional rigidity is also up, with this model claiming the title of the stiffest Range Rover to date.
While many EVs introduce entirely new driving experiences (like Mercedes-Benz's electric G-Wagen), Land Rover is banking on familiarity. Terrain modes from combustion models have been retained, and the company has developed its own intelligent traction control system (ITM) to manage torque across all four wheels.
The ITM system allows for millisecond-level torque vectoring between wheels, with cross-axle capability and the ability to emulate both two-wheel and four-wheel drive. It replaces traditional mechanical driveline components with software precision, providing finer control in both on- and off-road environments.
"We've optimised all of the terrain modes for Range Rover Electric," Mr Owen explained. "It's about making it actually comfortable off-road and reducing driver demand in challenging conditions."
The model also includes adaptive thermal management with a proprietary heat pump system designed to improve efficiency and comfort.
Land Rover says the system can operate in temperatures as low as -15°C, recovering waste heat to reduce energy consumption by up to 40 per cent compared with the brand's previous electric vehicle, the Jaguar I-Pace.
While other manufacturers often borrow EV components from shared platforms, Land Rover's vertically integrated approach reflects its aim to control the Range Rover Electric experience end to end. It may look familiar, but beneath the skin, this is the most technologically advanced model the company has built.
With more than 62,000 customers already expressing interest globally, the Range Rover Electric appears to be landing well with buyers looking for electrification without dramatic change.
MORE: Explore the Range Rover showroom
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
JLR is well down the path of introducing its first electric Range Rover, which is expected sometime next year, but the company's approach is as notable for how long it has taken to come to market as it is about the philosophical debate around electrification.
With JLR's previous electric vehicle (EV), the Jaguar I-Pace, not having performed well in both the sales and reliability charts, the company is adamant that this time it will wait until it's ready to release the Range Rover EV.
Rather than reimagining an all-new Range Rover, the company has opted to adapt its existing design and platform to accommodate an electric powertrain, a move summarised by its internal philosophy: "Don't change it, just make it better."
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
The electric variant sits on the same flexible platform as the petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid Range Rovers and come down the same production line.
It features a substantial 118kWh usable battery – comprising 344 prismatic cells using NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) chemistry – supplying energy to the dual-motor setup producing 404kW of power and 850Nm of torque.
The company claims the battery and the motors are designed and manufactured in-house, although the cells themselves likely come from BYD (Land Rover wouldn't confirm its battery supplier).
Despite the new drivetrain, key characteristics such as cabin layout, boot space, and off-road geometry remain unchanged. There's also no front boot, which the engineers told is deliberate as to not add elements customers don't need.
"This is about integrating electric propulsion into what is an established Range Rover design," said Lynfel Owen, chief engineer of vehicle engineering.
"So you know, the target was always, how do we look at today's cars, our combustion engines and everything we do today? How do we make that better with EV propulsion?"
The engineering team focused on maintaining performance and ride quality. According to Mr Owen, the Range Rover Electric benefits from upgraded suspension components – including dual-valve air springs and revised bushings – specifically tuned to handle the demands of an electric setup.
Torsional rigidity is also up, with this model claiming the title of the stiffest Range Rover to date.
While many EVs introduce entirely new driving experiences (like Mercedes-Benz's electric G-Wagen), Land Rover is banking on familiarity. Terrain modes from combustion models have been retained, and the company has developed its own intelligent traction control system (ITM) to manage torque across all four wheels.
The ITM system allows for millisecond-level torque vectoring between wheels, with cross-axle capability and the ability to emulate both two-wheel and four-wheel drive. It replaces traditional mechanical driveline components with software precision, providing finer control in both on- and off-road environments.
"We've optimised all of the terrain modes for Range Rover Electric," Mr Owen explained. "It's about making it actually comfortable off-road and reducing driver demand in challenging conditions."
The model also includes adaptive thermal management with a proprietary heat pump system designed to improve efficiency and comfort.
Land Rover says the system can operate in temperatures as low as -15°C, recovering waste heat to reduce energy consumption by up to 40 per cent compared with the brand's previous electric vehicle, the Jaguar I-Pace.
While other manufacturers often borrow EV components from shared platforms, Land Rover's vertically integrated approach reflects its aim to control the Range Rover Electric experience end to end. It may look familiar, but beneath the skin, this is the most technologically advanced model the company has built.
With more than 62,000 customers already expressing interest globally, the Range Rover Electric appears to be landing well with buyers looking for electrification without dramatic change.
MORE: Explore the Range Rover showroom
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
JLR is well down the path of introducing its first electric Range Rover, which is expected sometime next year, but the company's approach is as notable for how long it has taken to come to market as it is about the philosophical debate around electrification.
With JLR's previous electric vehicle (EV), the Jaguar I-Pace, not having performed well in both the sales and reliability charts, the company is adamant that this time it will wait until it's ready to release the Range Rover EV.
Rather than reimagining an all-new Range Rover, the company has opted to adapt its existing design and platform to accommodate an electric powertrain, a move summarised by its internal philosophy: "Don't change it, just make it better."
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
The electric variant sits on the same flexible platform as the petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid Range Rovers and come down the same production line.
It features a substantial 118kWh usable battery – comprising 344 prismatic cells using NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) chemistry – supplying energy to the dual-motor setup producing 404kW of power and 850Nm of torque.
The company claims the battery and the motors are designed and manufactured in-house, although the cells themselves likely come from BYD (Land Rover wouldn't confirm its battery supplier).
Despite the new drivetrain, key characteristics such as cabin layout, boot space, and off-road geometry remain unchanged. There's also no front boot, which the engineers told is deliberate as to not add elements customers don't need.
"This is about integrating electric propulsion into what is an established Range Rover design," said Lynfel Owen, chief engineer of vehicle engineering.
"So you know, the target was always, how do we look at today's cars, our combustion engines and everything we do today? How do we make that better with EV propulsion?"
The engineering team focused on maintaining performance and ride quality. According to Mr Owen, the Range Rover Electric benefits from upgraded suspension components – including dual-valve air springs and revised bushings – specifically tuned to handle the demands of an electric setup.
Torsional rigidity is also up, with this model claiming the title of the stiffest Range Rover to date.
While many EVs introduce entirely new driving experiences (like Mercedes-Benz's electric G-Wagen), Land Rover is banking on familiarity. Terrain modes from combustion models have been retained, and the company has developed its own intelligent traction control system (ITM) to manage torque across all four wheels.
The ITM system allows for millisecond-level torque vectoring between wheels, with cross-axle capability and the ability to emulate both two-wheel and four-wheel drive. It replaces traditional mechanical driveline components with software precision, providing finer control in both on- and off-road environments.
"We've optimised all of the terrain modes for Range Rover Electric," Mr Owen explained. "It's about making it actually comfortable off-road and reducing driver demand in challenging conditions."
The model also includes adaptive thermal management with a proprietary heat pump system designed to improve efficiency and comfort.
Land Rover says the system can operate in temperatures as low as -15°C, recovering waste heat to reduce energy consumption by up to 40 per cent compared with the brand's previous electric vehicle, the Jaguar I-Pace.
While other manufacturers often borrow EV components from shared platforms, Land Rover's vertically integrated approach reflects its aim to control the Range Rover Electric experience end to end. It may look familiar, but beneath the skin, this is the most technologically advanced model the company has built.
With more than 62,000 customers already expressing interest globally, the Range Rover Electric appears to be landing well with buyers looking for electrification without dramatic change.
MORE: Explore the Range Rover showroom
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
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2025 Hyundai Ioniq 9 price and specs
2025 Hyundai Ioniq 9 price and specs

The Advertiser

time13 hours ago

  • The Advertiser

2025 Hyundai Ioniq 9 price and specs

Hyundai's most expensive vehicle yet in Australia is now on sale. The Hyundai Ioniq 9, a flagship three-row electric SUV, is coming here only in top-spec Calligraphy trim and wearing a price tag of $119,750 before on-road costs. The seven-seat EV is available now and the only options are digital exterior mirrors and a six-seat configuration. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The Ioniq 9 is the first Hyundai vehicle in Australia with Digital Key 2.0, a smartphone-based key that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle using near-field communication and ultra-wideband technology. This feature doesn't require a mobile network signal and, depending on the smartphone type, will continue to function even if a user's smartphone battery is flat. Users can also share digital access to the vehicle with up to 15 devices. Also debuting in the Ioniq 9 is Google Places Search, allowing users to use text search to find places using a specific text string – for example, "restaurants near me". The Ioniq 9 rides Hyundai Motor Group's E-GMP platform, a dedicated architecture for electric vehicles (EVs). This also underpins the similarly sized Kia EV9, which is the Ioniq 9's most direct rival. The EV9 is available in three variants, though the flagship GT-Line – most comparable to the Ioniq 9 – is priced at $121,000 before on-road costs. The Ioniq 9 is the priciest Hyundai yet, surpassing even the Ioniq 5 N high-performance electric SUV, which is currently priced at $110,383 before on-road costs. The Ioniq 9 is being offered here only in dual-motor all-wheel drive guise, with a pair of 157kW/350Nm electric motors. It rides on MacPherson strut front and five-link rear suspension, with a self-levelling damper system to help reduce sag when loaded with heavy cargo. Hyundai claims it takes as little as 24 minutes to charge the Ioniq 9 from 10 to 80 per cent using a 350kW DC fast-charger. While it rides on a different platform and has a longer wheelbase, the Ioniq 9 has an almost identical footprint to the upcoming second-generation Palisade large SUV. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty and an eight-year, 160,000km high-voltage battery warranty. Under Hyundai's Lifetime Service Plan capped-price servicing scheme, the Ioniq 9 requires a service at 24 months/30,000km which costs $660, and then one at 48 months or 60,000km which costs $685. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 has yet to be tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP. Standard safety equipment includes: There's just one Ioniq 9 trim level offered in Australia – the top-spec Calligraphy. Standard equipment includes: Also included is a complimentary five-year subscription to Hyundai Bluelink connected car services. This is transferrable to subsequent owners within the five-year period, and includes features such as: Digital exterior mirrors are a $3000 option. A six-seat configuration is available for an extra $2000, replacing the second-row three-seat bench and bringing: Metallic and pearl exterior paint finishes cost an extra $750. These comprise: Matte paint is a $1000 option. The following matte finishes are available: MORE: Explore the Hyundai Ioniq 9 showroom Content originally sourced from: Hyundai's most expensive vehicle yet in Australia is now on sale. The Hyundai Ioniq 9, a flagship three-row electric SUV, is coming here only in top-spec Calligraphy trim and wearing a price tag of $119,750 before on-road costs. The seven-seat EV is available now and the only options are digital exterior mirrors and a six-seat configuration. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The Ioniq 9 is the first Hyundai vehicle in Australia with Digital Key 2.0, a smartphone-based key that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle using near-field communication and ultra-wideband technology. This feature doesn't require a mobile network signal and, depending on the smartphone type, will continue to function even if a user's smartphone battery is flat. Users can also share digital access to the vehicle with up to 15 devices. Also debuting in the Ioniq 9 is Google Places Search, allowing users to use text search to find places using a specific text string – for example, "restaurants near me". The Ioniq 9 rides Hyundai Motor Group's E-GMP platform, a dedicated architecture for electric vehicles (EVs). This also underpins the similarly sized Kia EV9, which is the Ioniq 9's most direct rival. The EV9 is available in three variants, though the flagship GT-Line – most comparable to the Ioniq 9 – is priced at $121,000 before on-road costs. The Ioniq 9 is the priciest Hyundai yet, surpassing even the Ioniq 5 N high-performance electric SUV, which is currently priced at $110,383 before on-road costs. The Ioniq 9 is being offered here only in dual-motor all-wheel drive guise, with a pair of 157kW/350Nm electric motors. It rides on MacPherson strut front and five-link rear suspension, with a self-levelling damper system to help reduce sag when loaded with heavy cargo. Hyundai claims it takes as little as 24 minutes to charge the Ioniq 9 from 10 to 80 per cent using a 350kW DC fast-charger. While it rides on a different platform and has a longer wheelbase, the Ioniq 9 has an almost identical footprint to the upcoming second-generation Palisade large SUV. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty and an eight-year, 160,000km high-voltage battery warranty. Under Hyundai's Lifetime Service Plan capped-price servicing scheme, the Ioniq 9 requires a service at 24 months/30,000km which costs $660, and then one at 48 months or 60,000km which costs $685. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 has yet to be tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP. Standard safety equipment includes: There's just one Ioniq 9 trim level offered in Australia – the top-spec Calligraphy. Standard equipment includes: Also included is a complimentary five-year subscription to Hyundai Bluelink connected car services. This is transferrable to subsequent owners within the five-year period, and includes features such as: Digital exterior mirrors are a $3000 option. A six-seat configuration is available for an extra $2000, replacing the second-row three-seat bench and bringing: Metallic and pearl exterior paint finishes cost an extra $750. These comprise: Matte paint is a $1000 option. The following matte finishes are available: MORE: Explore the Hyundai Ioniq 9 showroom Content originally sourced from: Hyundai's most expensive vehicle yet in Australia is now on sale. The Hyundai Ioniq 9, a flagship three-row electric SUV, is coming here only in top-spec Calligraphy trim and wearing a price tag of $119,750 before on-road costs. The seven-seat EV is available now and the only options are digital exterior mirrors and a six-seat configuration. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The Ioniq 9 is the first Hyundai vehicle in Australia with Digital Key 2.0, a smartphone-based key that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle using near-field communication and ultra-wideband technology. This feature doesn't require a mobile network signal and, depending on the smartphone type, will continue to function even if a user's smartphone battery is flat. Users can also share digital access to the vehicle with up to 15 devices. Also debuting in the Ioniq 9 is Google Places Search, allowing users to use text search to find places using a specific text string – for example, "restaurants near me". The Ioniq 9 rides Hyundai Motor Group's E-GMP platform, a dedicated architecture for electric vehicles (EVs). This also underpins the similarly sized Kia EV9, which is the Ioniq 9's most direct rival. The EV9 is available in three variants, though the flagship GT-Line – most comparable to the Ioniq 9 – is priced at $121,000 before on-road costs. The Ioniq 9 is the priciest Hyundai yet, surpassing even the Ioniq 5 N high-performance electric SUV, which is currently priced at $110,383 before on-road costs. The Ioniq 9 is being offered here only in dual-motor all-wheel drive guise, with a pair of 157kW/350Nm electric motors. It rides on MacPherson strut front and five-link rear suspension, with a self-levelling damper system to help reduce sag when loaded with heavy cargo. Hyundai claims it takes as little as 24 minutes to charge the Ioniq 9 from 10 to 80 per cent using a 350kW DC fast-charger. While it rides on a different platform and has a longer wheelbase, the Ioniq 9 has an almost identical footprint to the upcoming second-generation Palisade large SUV. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty and an eight-year, 160,000km high-voltage battery warranty. Under Hyundai's Lifetime Service Plan capped-price servicing scheme, the Ioniq 9 requires a service at 24 months/30,000km which costs $660, and then one at 48 months or 60,000km which costs $685. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 has yet to be tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP. Standard safety equipment includes: There's just one Ioniq 9 trim level offered in Australia – the top-spec Calligraphy. Standard equipment includes: Also included is a complimentary five-year subscription to Hyundai Bluelink connected car services. This is transferrable to subsequent owners within the five-year period, and includes features such as: Digital exterior mirrors are a $3000 option. A six-seat configuration is available for an extra $2000, replacing the second-row three-seat bench and bringing: Metallic and pearl exterior paint finishes cost an extra $750. These comprise: Matte paint is a $1000 option. The following matte finishes are available: MORE: Explore the Hyundai Ioniq 9 showroom Content originally sourced from: Hyundai's most expensive vehicle yet in Australia is now on sale. The Hyundai Ioniq 9, a flagship three-row electric SUV, is coming here only in top-spec Calligraphy trim and wearing a price tag of $119,750 before on-road costs. The seven-seat EV is available now and the only options are digital exterior mirrors and a six-seat configuration. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The Ioniq 9 is the first Hyundai vehicle in Australia with Digital Key 2.0, a smartphone-based key that can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle using near-field communication and ultra-wideband technology. This feature doesn't require a mobile network signal and, depending on the smartphone type, will continue to function even if a user's smartphone battery is flat. Users can also share digital access to the vehicle with up to 15 devices. Also debuting in the Ioniq 9 is Google Places Search, allowing users to use text search to find places using a specific text string – for example, "restaurants near me". The Ioniq 9 rides Hyundai Motor Group's E-GMP platform, a dedicated architecture for electric vehicles (EVs). This also underpins the similarly sized Kia EV9, which is the Ioniq 9's most direct rival. The EV9 is available in three variants, though the flagship GT-Line – most comparable to the Ioniq 9 – is priced at $121,000 before on-road costs. The Ioniq 9 is the priciest Hyundai yet, surpassing even the Ioniq 5 N high-performance electric SUV, which is currently priced at $110,383 before on-road costs. The Ioniq 9 is being offered here only in dual-motor all-wheel drive guise, with a pair of 157kW/350Nm electric motors. It rides on MacPherson strut front and five-link rear suspension, with a self-levelling damper system to help reduce sag when loaded with heavy cargo. Hyundai claims it takes as little as 24 minutes to charge the Ioniq 9 from 10 to 80 per cent using a 350kW DC fast-charger. While it rides on a different platform and has a longer wheelbase, the Ioniq 9 has an almost identical footprint to the upcoming second-generation Palisade large SUV. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty and an eight-year, 160,000km high-voltage battery warranty. Under Hyundai's Lifetime Service Plan capped-price servicing scheme, the Ioniq 9 requires a service at 24 months/30,000km which costs $660, and then one at 48 months or 60,000km which costs $685. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 has yet to be tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP. Standard safety equipment includes: There's just one Ioniq 9 trim level offered in Australia – the top-spec Calligraphy. Standard equipment includes: Also included is a complimentary five-year subscription to Hyundai Bluelink connected car services. This is transferrable to subsequent owners within the five-year period, and includes features such as: Digital exterior mirrors are a $3000 option. A six-seat configuration is available for an extra $2000, replacing the second-row three-seat bench and bringing: Metallic and pearl exterior paint finishes cost an extra $750. These comprise: Matte paint is a $1000 option. The following matte finishes are available: MORE: Explore the Hyundai Ioniq 9 showroom Content originally sourced from:

Polestar boss says new Australian emissions regulations 'didn't kill the weekend'
Polestar boss says new Australian emissions regulations 'didn't kill the weekend'

The Advertiser

time13 hours ago

  • The Advertiser

Polestar boss says new Australian emissions regulations 'didn't kill the weekend'

Polestar Australia managing director Scott Maynard says the 'scaremongering' that took place ahead of the implementation of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) has failed. The NVES was introduced on January 1, 2025, and limits the overall carbon-dioxide emissions across a brand's lineup – with automakers facing financial penalties if they exceed the targets. Penalties came into effect on July 1, 2025, and fleet emissions targets will get more stringent every year until 2029. When asked if perhaps NVES could have been pitched better by the politicians who were publicly in favour of it, Mr Maynard was positive. "It turns out it didn't kill the weekend," the Polestar boss said. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Polestar Australia managing director Scott Maynard "We got it through, so I don't think I'm a good enough politician to say that they went about the wrong way. "I do think that there was perhaps some scaremongering whipped up from some of its opponents that did land a few blows, and some of the benefits of a market that responds to NVES legislation – like cleaner air and a move towards vehicles that that are cheaper to run – were perhaps lost in some of that messaging." Former opposition leader Peter Dutton had pledged to scrap the NVES – which he called a 'ute tax' – if the Coalition won last November's federal election (which it didn't). "We will abolish Labor's tax on family cars and utes. Saving you thousands when buying a new car," Mr Dutton posted on social media. "Labor's new car and ute tax will hit families and small businesses with thousands in extra costs." The Australian Government proposed three iterations of NVES – A, B and C options – in February 2024 for feedback from industry bodies and automakers. Of the three, the "fast but flexible" B proposal was the government's preferred option. Though it wasn't the most stringent of the three, the B proposal was criticised by some Australian car companies, with Toyota – the best-selling brand here since 2008 – saying it would force new vehicle prices up and hurt 'middle Australia'. Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia vice president of sales and marketing, said the company didn't have the model range available globally on hand to replace popular vehicles like the LandCruiser. Mr Hanley also said sales of smaller, lower-emission Toyota models would not be enough to offset fines from sales of larger vehicles. Similar objections were voiced by other car companies, such as Mitsubishi Australia CEO Shaun Westcott who also appealed to 'middle Australia'. "We do want a standard, we're not against a standard," Mr Westcott told CarExpert. "What we want is a standard that is practical and achievable against the pace of technology, aligned with what consumers want and what consumers can afford." The Australian Government subsequently made key concessions to automakers ahead of introducing the legislation to parliament in March 2024, including changing how large off-roaders were categorised – something which Toyota had called for. Both Toyota and Mitsubishi are members of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), which issued statements critical of NVES – something that saw Polestar and rival electric car brand Tesla quit the industry body. Mr Maynard recently said the brand is no closer to rejoining the FCAI, saying the industry body is less progressive than when Polestar left it in protest in March 2024. When asked by CarExpert if Polestar Australia could better effect change by being a member of the FCAI, Mr Maynard was blunt. "If I thought that the volume of vehicles that we sell – [Polestar] being a premium and relatively exclusive player – would give us a fair voice inside the FCAI, then perhaps that logic would run. "But I think it's still the case that the FCAI services those members that fund it, and I can understand why they would do that. They're a representative body of the manufacturers that sit inside it, and so no, I think I'd probably get sent out of the room." MORE: Everything Polestar MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers MORE: Mitsubishi boss slams federal emissions regulations, "naivety" around EVs MORE: Polestar won't rejoin Australia's top auto industry body Content originally sourced from: Polestar Australia managing director Scott Maynard says the 'scaremongering' that took place ahead of the implementation of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) has failed. The NVES was introduced on January 1, 2025, and limits the overall carbon-dioxide emissions across a brand's lineup – with automakers facing financial penalties if they exceed the targets. Penalties came into effect on July 1, 2025, and fleet emissions targets will get more stringent every year until 2029. When asked if perhaps NVES could have been pitched better by the politicians who were publicly in favour of it, Mr Maynard was positive. "It turns out it didn't kill the weekend," the Polestar boss said. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Polestar Australia managing director Scott Maynard "We got it through, so I don't think I'm a good enough politician to say that they went about the wrong way. "I do think that there was perhaps some scaremongering whipped up from some of its opponents that did land a few blows, and some of the benefits of a market that responds to NVES legislation – like cleaner air and a move towards vehicles that that are cheaper to run – were perhaps lost in some of that messaging." Former opposition leader Peter Dutton had pledged to scrap the NVES – which he called a 'ute tax' – if the Coalition won last November's federal election (which it didn't). "We will abolish Labor's tax on family cars and utes. Saving you thousands when buying a new car," Mr Dutton posted on social media. "Labor's new car and ute tax will hit families and small businesses with thousands in extra costs." The Australian Government proposed three iterations of NVES – A, B and C options – in February 2024 for feedback from industry bodies and automakers. Of the three, the "fast but flexible" B proposal was the government's preferred option. Though it wasn't the most stringent of the three, the B proposal was criticised by some Australian car companies, with Toyota – the best-selling brand here since 2008 – saying it would force new vehicle prices up and hurt 'middle Australia'. Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia vice president of sales and marketing, said the company didn't have the model range available globally on hand to replace popular vehicles like the LandCruiser. Mr Hanley also said sales of smaller, lower-emission Toyota models would not be enough to offset fines from sales of larger vehicles. Similar objections were voiced by other car companies, such as Mitsubishi Australia CEO Shaun Westcott who also appealed to 'middle Australia'. "We do want a standard, we're not against a standard," Mr Westcott told CarExpert. "What we want is a standard that is practical and achievable against the pace of technology, aligned with what consumers want and what consumers can afford." The Australian Government subsequently made key concessions to automakers ahead of introducing the legislation to parliament in March 2024, including changing how large off-roaders were categorised – something which Toyota had called for. Both Toyota and Mitsubishi are members of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), which issued statements critical of NVES – something that saw Polestar and rival electric car brand Tesla quit the industry body. Mr Maynard recently said the brand is no closer to rejoining the FCAI, saying the industry body is less progressive than when Polestar left it in protest in March 2024. When asked by CarExpert if Polestar Australia could better effect change by being a member of the FCAI, Mr Maynard was blunt. "If I thought that the volume of vehicles that we sell – [Polestar] being a premium and relatively exclusive player – would give us a fair voice inside the FCAI, then perhaps that logic would run. "But I think it's still the case that the FCAI services those members that fund it, and I can understand why they would do that. They're a representative body of the manufacturers that sit inside it, and so no, I think I'd probably get sent out of the room." MORE: Everything Polestar MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers MORE: Mitsubishi boss slams federal emissions regulations, "naivety" around EVs MORE: Polestar won't rejoin Australia's top auto industry body Content originally sourced from: Polestar Australia managing director Scott Maynard says the 'scaremongering' that took place ahead of the implementation of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) has failed. The NVES was introduced on January 1, 2025, and limits the overall carbon-dioxide emissions across a brand's lineup – with automakers facing financial penalties if they exceed the targets. Penalties came into effect on July 1, 2025, and fleet emissions targets will get more stringent every year until 2029. When asked if perhaps NVES could have been pitched better by the politicians who were publicly in favour of it, Mr Maynard was positive. "It turns out it didn't kill the weekend," the Polestar boss said. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Polestar Australia managing director Scott Maynard "We got it through, so I don't think I'm a good enough politician to say that they went about the wrong way. "I do think that there was perhaps some scaremongering whipped up from some of its opponents that did land a few blows, and some of the benefits of a market that responds to NVES legislation – like cleaner air and a move towards vehicles that that are cheaper to run – were perhaps lost in some of that messaging." Former opposition leader Peter Dutton had pledged to scrap the NVES – which he called a 'ute tax' – if the Coalition won last November's federal election (which it didn't). "We will abolish Labor's tax on family cars and utes. Saving you thousands when buying a new car," Mr Dutton posted on social media. "Labor's new car and ute tax will hit families and small businesses with thousands in extra costs." The Australian Government proposed three iterations of NVES – A, B and C options – in February 2024 for feedback from industry bodies and automakers. Of the three, the "fast but flexible" B proposal was the government's preferred option. Though it wasn't the most stringent of the three, the B proposal was criticised by some Australian car companies, with Toyota – the best-selling brand here since 2008 – saying it would force new vehicle prices up and hurt 'middle Australia'. Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia vice president of sales and marketing, said the company didn't have the model range available globally on hand to replace popular vehicles like the LandCruiser. Mr Hanley also said sales of smaller, lower-emission Toyota models would not be enough to offset fines from sales of larger vehicles. Similar objections were voiced by other car companies, such as Mitsubishi Australia CEO Shaun Westcott who also appealed to 'middle Australia'. "We do want a standard, we're not against a standard," Mr Westcott told CarExpert. "What we want is a standard that is practical and achievable against the pace of technology, aligned with what consumers want and what consumers can afford." The Australian Government subsequently made key concessions to automakers ahead of introducing the legislation to parliament in March 2024, including changing how large off-roaders were categorised – something which Toyota had called for. Both Toyota and Mitsubishi are members of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), which issued statements critical of NVES – something that saw Polestar and rival electric car brand Tesla quit the industry body. Mr Maynard recently said the brand is no closer to rejoining the FCAI, saying the industry body is less progressive than when Polestar left it in protest in March 2024. When asked by CarExpert if Polestar Australia could better effect change by being a member of the FCAI, Mr Maynard was blunt. "If I thought that the volume of vehicles that we sell – [Polestar] being a premium and relatively exclusive player – would give us a fair voice inside the FCAI, then perhaps that logic would run. "But I think it's still the case that the FCAI services those members that fund it, and I can understand why they would do that. They're a representative body of the manufacturers that sit inside it, and so no, I think I'd probably get sent out of the room." MORE: Everything Polestar MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers MORE: Mitsubishi boss slams federal emissions regulations, "naivety" around EVs MORE: Polestar won't rejoin Australia's top auto industry body Content originally sourced from: Polestar Australia managing director Scott Maynard says the 'scaremongering' that took place ahead of the implementation of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) has failed. The NVES was introduced on January 1, 2025, and limits the overall carbon-dioxide emissions across a brand's lineup – with automakers facing financial penalties if they exceed the targets. Penalties came into effect on July 1, 2025, and fleet emissions targets will get more stringent every year until 2029. When asked if perhaps NVES could have been pitched better by the politicians who were publicly in favour of it, Mr Maynard was positive. "It turns out it didn't kill the weekend," the Polestar boss said. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Polestar Australia managing director Scott Maynard "We got it through, so I don't think I'm a good enough politician to say that they went about the wrong way. "I do think that there was perhaps some scaremongering whipped up from some of its opponents that did land a few blows, and some of the benefits of a market that responds to NVES legislation – like cleaner air and a move towards vehicles that that are cheaper to run – were perhaps lost in some of that messaging." Former opposition leader Peter Dutton had pledged to scrap the NVES – which he called a 'ute tax' – if the Coalition won last November's federal election (which it didn't). "We will abolish Labor's tax on family cars and utes. Saving you thousands when buying a new car," Mr Dutton posted on social media. "Labor's new car and ute tax will hit families and small businesses with thousands in extra costs." The Australian Government proposed three iterations of NVES – A, B and C options – in February 2024 for feedback from industry bodies and automakers. Of the three, the "fast but flexible" B proposal was the government's preferred option. Though it wasn't the most stringent of the three, the B proposal was criticised by some Australian car companies, with Toyota – the best-selling brand here since 2008 – saying it would force new vehicle prices up and hurt 'middle Australia'. Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia vice president of sales and marketing, said the company didn't have the model range available globally on hand to replace popular vehicles like the LandCruiser. Mr Hanley also said sales of smaller, lower-emission Toyota models would not be enough to offset fines from sales of larger vehicles. Similar objections were voiced by other car companies, such as Mitsubishi Australia CEO Shaun Westcott who also appealed to 'middle Australia'. "We do want a standard, we're not against a standard," Mr Westcott told CarExpert. "What we want is a standard that is practical and achievable against the pace of technology, aligned with what consumers want and what consumers can afford." The Australian Government subsequently made key concessions to automakers ahead of introducing the legislation to parliament in March 2024, including changing how large off-roaders were categorised – something which Toyota had called for. Both Toyota and Mitsubishi are members of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), which issued statements critical of NVES – something that saw Polestar and rival electric car brand Tesla quit the industry body. Mr Maynard recently said the brand is no closer to rejoining the FCAI, saying the industry body is less progressive than when Polestar left it in protest in March 2024. When asked by CarExpert if Polestar Australia could better effect change by being a member of the FCAI, Mr Maynard was blunt. "If I thought that the volume of vehicles that we sell – [Polestar] being a premium and relatively exclusive player – would give us a fair voice inside the FCAI, then perhaps that logic would run. "But I think it's still the case that the FCAI services those members that fund it, and I can understand why they would do that. They're a representative body of the manufacturers that sit inside it, and so no, I think I'd probably get sent out of the room." MORE: Everything Polestar MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers MORE: Mitsubishi boss slams federal emissions regulations, "naivety" around EVs MORE: Polestar won't rejoin Australia's top auto industry body Content originally sourced from:

2025 Renault Master price and specs
2025 Renault Master price and specs

Perth Now

time13 hours ago

  • Perth Now

2025 Renault Master price and specs

Renault's largest commercial van now has a smaller model lineup. The 2025 Renault Master range has been simplified to just medium- and long-wheelbase variants, with the previous Extra LWB option removed. Both MWB and LWB variants of the large delivery van are now offered exclusively in Pro trim, priced at $55,200 and $57,200 before on-road costs, respectively. Renault Australia is offering the MWB to ABN holders for $57,990 drive-away until September 30, 2025, and says it has 'good supply' of the Master. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Supplied Credit: CarExpert There's only one powertrain on offer: a 2.3-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine mated with a six-speed automated manual transmission. A manual transmission is no longer available. The Master isn't just Renault's biggest vehicle, it's also its biggest seller. To the end of June, Renault has delivered 1074 Master cargo vans in Australia this year, more than the mid-size Trafic van (516) and mid-size Koleos crossover SUV (424). The Master is currently outselling the Ford Transit (943), Peugeot Boxer (15) and Volkswagen Crafter (147), though it's outsold by the LDV Deliver 9 (1341) and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (2026). Renault doesn't publish fuel economy or CO2 emissions figures for the Master. The Renault Master is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Servicing is required every 12 months or 30,000km, whichever comes first. The first five services are capped at $599, with the exception of the four-year/120,000km service which costs $1259. Standard safety equipment includes: Blind-spot monitoring Lane departure warning Front, front-side airbags Reversing camera Rear parking sensors Supplied Credit: CarExpert Standard equipment includes: Automatic halogen headlights LED daytime running lights Rain-sensing wipers 16-inch steel wheels Spare wheel Cruise control Speed limiter Unglazed left sliding door Glazed rear barn doors Glazed steel bulkhead 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Driver's seat with height, reach and lumbar adjustment Driver's armrest Two-passenger bench seat Air-conditioning Cloth upholstery Overhead storage shelf 6 x cupholders Height-adjustable steering column Options include: Glazed left and right sliding doors Right sliding door Trade pack Business pack The Master is available in the following exterior paint finishes: Mineral White Urban Grey Star Grey Pearlescent Black Tempest Blue MORE: Explore the Renault Master showroom

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