The Range Rover Astronaut Edition is the ultimate statement of exclusivity in the luxury SUV, reserved for an elite cadre of individuals who have secured their places among the stars. This extraordinary machine marries earthbound comfort with space-age technology in the most unique vehicular experience for Virgin Galactic’s Future Astronauts to date!
The Ultimate Exclusive Access
The Range Rover Astronaut Edition is defined not only by its incredible design but also by its breathtaking exclusivity. This one-of-a-kind ride is available only to those who are signed up to be Virgin Galactic Future Astronauts, none of whom have been on an actual spacecraft yet. With some 600-700 people having already laid down $250,000 for a 90-minute ride with Virgin Galactic, this effectively sets the production limit at 700 units for the whole world.
The exclusivity is part of the continuing partnership between Land Rover and Virgin Galactic that launched in 2014. It’s more than lip service, however, as Land Rover vehicles are used at Virgin Galactic’s facilities to tow space vehicles, transport equipment, and even clear runways prior to launch.
Design That Defies Gravity
Image credit: RangeRover
Exterior Excellence
The Astronaut Edition features a stunning Zero Gravity Blue paint finish, which was specially developed for this watch and is inspired by the depth and brilliance of the night sky. This special hue really embodies the spirit of space travel, and immediately creates a visual link with the cosmos.
There is unique Astronaut Edition badging on the tailgate and on the side profile finishers. In what’s perhaps the most extraordinary detail, the vehicle comes with custom puddle lamps that shine the silhouette of Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo on the ground, serving as a breathtaking visual reminder of the owner’s trip into space.
Interior Innovation
The Astronaut Edition cabin is a rocket-themed retreat, inside and out, with insane details. The centerpiece are two amazing discs that sit within the cup holders, each made from the actual front landing skid of the Virgin Spaceship Unity.
The most amazing part about these discs is how they evolve: after the owners finish their Virgin Galactic space flight, these original pieces are replaced with material from the wooden skid that the actual spacecraft they flew on rests on, complete with personalized inscriptions outlining their “life-changing experience”.
Inside there is a unique DNA of Flight graphic on the carbon fibre centre console lid and the leather rear armrest illustrating the development of manned flight from Icarus’ mythical wings to the Wright Brothers’ aeroplane and the Apollo Lunar Module. The machined aluminum door handles are etched with Virgin Galactic s Future Astronaut community constellation pattern, a graphic which also adorns the front headrests and the glove box.
Performance That Soars
Image credit: RangeRover
The Range Rover Astronaut Edition has two powerplant choices to suit different tastes:
P400e Plug-in Hybrid: It has a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine along with electric power, with a combined power output ranging from 398-404 horsepower. This green option gives a fully electric range of 42 kilometers and CO2 emissions of only 72g/km.
P525 Supercharged V8: Experience thrill ride akin to space travel with a potent 5.0 litre supercharged petrol V8 producing 518-525 horsepower.
Each engine is available with an advanced all-wheel-drive system and Land Rover’s acclaimed Terrain Response system, which makes sure the vehicle is at home on solid ground or on its way to the next generation of space explorers.
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Pricing and Availability
While Land Rover has yet to release exact pricing for the Astronaut Edition, sources tell us the vehicle is based on the Range Rover Autobiography platform which has a starting price of around £103,130 in the UK. On the Indian side, the standard Range Rover models are priced between ₹2.31 crore – ₹4.25 crore, meaning that the Astronaut Edition would be at a premium over these figures.
Image credit: RangeRover
As the Future Astronauts have already poured in $250,000 to book their space flight tickets, the extra cost for this exclusive Range Rover will be small change for this elite group. The limited edition run of 700 units worldwide will ensure that this will be one of the most elusive and collectible Range Rover editions of all time.
Beyond Transportation: A Statement of Achievement
The Range Rover Astronaut Edition breaks the mold of traditional automotive design to stand for human achievement in the exploration of space and beyond. It is where British luxury design met the pioneering nature of commercial space travel.Every design element tells a tale of humanity’s desire to reach beyond the confines of Earth’s atmosphere.
Image credit: RangeRover
For its exclusive owners, this car is both a daily reminder of their journey to the cosmos and a keepsake of their place in the history of space exploration.
The Future of Luxury Mobility
The Astronaut Edition showcases how high-end car makers are developing to offer experiences that go well beyond the usual forms of transport. Land Rover has teamed up with Virgin Galactic to offer more than a vehicle: a lifestyle experience that connects terrestrial luxury with the wonders of space exploration.
Conclusion
The Range Rover Astronaut Edition is a celebration of human aspiration, bringing together the best aspects of British luxury with the endless potential of space travel.For the lucky 600-700 who will get to experience the car and the cosmic journey, it is a dream come true. The worldwide collaboration also has an educational spin — it aims to inspire young people around the world to go become engineers, scientists and technologists. The collaboration speaks to a vision of the luxury house participating in humanity’s grandest adventures while remaining dedicated to extraordinary craftsmanship and innovation.
