Innovation GreenWire: Range Rover Evoque releases class leading sustainability credentials

The car will have an option of front-wheel-drive, in addition to four-wheel-drive, bringing an expected sub 130g/km CO2 on the 2.2 litre diesel and 58 miles per gallon, making it the leader in its class. The four-wheel-drive version will have an expected 145g/km CO2.

Available from Summer 2011, the car is a major expansion for the Range Rover brand in terms of sustainability. The improved greener credentials stem from a comprehensive approach to reducing environmental impact throughout the life cycle of the vehicle. Engineers have rigorously sourced areas for greater efficiency within Evoque to ensure that the vehicle delivers the lowest possible fuel consumption and CO2 emissions whilst maintaining the expected style, elegance, performance and attributes of a Range Rover. The vehicle also features extensive use of lightweight and sustainable materials.

Highlights include:

• Increased powertrain efficiency. State-of-the-art petrol and diesel engines, with high-efficiency features like direct injection and stop-start

• Minimising parasitic losses. The Evoque is the most aerodynamically efficient Range Rover to date with optimised co-efficiency of drag. Its tyres have a 30 per cent reduction in rolling resistance but still maintain all terrain capability

• Improved efficiency. Use of innovative technologies to minimise fuel consumption, including EPAS (Electric power assisted steering) and smart charging

• Extensive use of lightweight and sustainable material. Aluminium roof and bonnet (made from up to 50 per cent recycled aluminium), plastic tailgate & fenders, aluminium suspension components, and use of sustainable materials in interior trim (inc. headlining and seats)

• Smaller size. 430mm shorter and 187mm lower that the Range Rover Sport

• Whole-life approach. Focus on minimising the overall carbon footprint, from development and manufacturing, to customer use and end-of-life.The Range Rover Evoque will be the first commercially available SUV certified to international environmental management standards ISO14001 and ISO14062.

Phil Popham, managing director of Land Rover, said: "Evoque sends a powerful message that Range Rover is serious about sustainability and determined to deliver products which are both relevant in today’s society and still highly desirable. It offers the premium levels of luxury and performance customers expect from a Range Rover, while at the same time demonstrating the kind of efficiency and responsible design we are committed to deliver in all future new products.

More details about the new Range Rover Evoque can be found at www.helloevoque.com.