Story and History

1970 Preproduction Range Rover Velar

Here we are with another Prototype Range Rover - known as a Velar

and very proud we are too, having previously sold a number of the pre-production prototypes

She was completed on 23rd March 1970 and delivered to the Land Rover Engineering Department of the Rover Car Company the very next day

She was used for development of the model and brake testing together with high mileage testing in order that Land Rover could address any potential reliability problems before their customers had to - she did over 100.000 miles in the first year with two driver teams working two shifts and driving her on a specific route to ensure the mileage reflected general usage

Naturally during this intensive use many components were changed or upgraded and she runs later axles, fuel filler neck, bonnet (with no mirrors) and engine too

The factory retained her for development until June 1974 when she was sold for the sum of £1.000 - the original sales invoice is retained within the history folder, together with an original sales brochure, heritage certificate and with a road test by Autocar from November 1970

Like our other Velars, this example had a body off restoration, this time in the late 1990's - indeed the chassis was galvanized to ensure longevity for this valuable and special vehicle

When we got to it we decided to remove the engine and change all seals within the engine and gearbox too and whilst we did these mechanical works we stripped the paintwork and repainted her in the original Davos White, painting the wheels Sahara Dust

Her interior retains original PVC injection moulded seats and most unusually door cards made in the same method too - it is believed these are the only ones of this type in existence

We had some lambswool seat covers made to protect the original PVC seats, replacements for which are almost unavailable

Used regularly we have recently been requested to provide her for use at various events - the Classic Driver used her for a short video piece - please click on the Google link below to see the film

Google

In 2011 she was displayed within the Rotunda of the world famous Royal Automobile Club, Pall Mall for a week

In 2012 she was included in the Queens Diamond Jubilee Tour of Elegance from Kensington Palace to Windsor Castle and thereafter left on display there for the Concours held at the Castle

In 2013 Land Rover requested her presence for the International Press & VIP Launch of the latest new model Range Rover where she was on display and also used for the collection of various VIP's

In 2014 the Offices of the Goodwood Revival asked for her to be used in their "Earls Court Motor Show" display of ground breaking V8 engined cars launched in the 1960's and 1970's

During this extended period of use she hasn't missed a beat and has been a joy to own and use - and as can be seen this is a fully recognised and acceptable Velar proudly displayed in the most prestigious of events

Our tenure has lasted 5 years - perhaps now it's time for some else to enjoy the experience