JAGUAR Land Rover’s technology concept for a plug-in hybrid diesel-electric powertrain, the Range-e, has landed the 2011 Award for Automotive Innovation by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
The system, first revealed at the Geneva motor show in March, has been hailed by the auto industry as the most significant achievement of the year in UK research and development for the global market.
Range_e marks a world first as a luxury all-wheel drive vehicle powered by a plug-in hybrid system, combining a 69kW electric motor and 14.2kWh lithium-ion battery with Land Rover’s 245PS 3.0-litre TDV6 diesel engine.
The vehicle, based on the Range Rover Sport, can be driven for more than 20 miles on its electric power, creating zero tailpipe emissions.
Beyond that range the diesel hybrid drivetrain continues to keep CO2 emissions down to 89g/km with 85mpg fuel economy, while the system’s combined power of 339PS delivers a top speed of around 120mph.
And the battery can be recharged by connecting to an external 240V power source.
SMMT chief Paul Everitt said: “Jaguar Land Rover has engineered and manufactured a highly efficient and technologically advanced prototype vehicle that clearly demonstrates industry’s commitment to lowering vehicle emissions and creating exciting products for demanding consumers.
“This award champions industry innovation, promoting cutting-edge automotive engineering and design that the UK is famed for around the world.”
The Range_e is one of a number of Land Rover projects supported by the UK Government and five prototype models are currently undergoing a test programme.
The technology showcased in Range_e will be used in production vehicles, following on from Land Rover’s planned introduction of its first diesel-electric hybrid model in 2013.