How the fourth-generation Range Rover shed nearly half a ton of weight
In short: The L405 Range Rover redefined luxury off-roading by becoming the first production 4x4 to feature an all-aluminium monocoque body. This structural shift slashed 420 kilograms from its predecessor, proving that massive vehicles could achieve newfound agility without sacrificing the rugged capability expected of the iconic Land Rover brand.
Unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, the L405 marked a radical departure from the steel-bodied third generation. By moving to an all-aluminium monocoque—constructed at a dedicated facility in Solihull—engineers achieved a 39 percent lighter body-shell. This weight reduction of 420 kg (926 lb) was central to the vehicle's performance, allowing for improved handling and efficiency across a diverse range of petrol and diesel engines, all paired with an eight-speed ZF transmission.
Beyond the chassis, the L405 introduced sophisticated electronic systems to manage its physical presence. The Terrain Response 2 system automatically optimizes vehicle settings for surfaces ranging from sand to rock, while adaptive dynamics monitor movement 500 times per second to adjust dampers. The dynamic response system further refines the ride by independently adjusting hydraulic sway bars, effectively absorbing roll up to 0.4 g and allowing the vehicle to feel agile at low speeds while remaining stable during high-speed maneuvers.
The platform's versatility supported various iterations, including the long-wheelbase Autobiography Black and the 2018 facelift, which introduced a four-bar grille and overhauled infotainment. However, the model line also faced the realities of modern automotive economics. The ambitious two-door SV Coupe, intended as the fastest Range Rover ever, was cancelled in 2019. Land Rover cited the high cost of unique, incompatible parts and a strategic pivot toward electric vehicle development as the primary reasons for abandoning the project, signaling a shift in the brand's long-term priorities.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Range Rover (L405)
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