The full-electric Mercedes G-Class’s maximum wading depth is 150mm greater than the petrol V8’s; a snorkel can solve this problem for the ICE car, of course. It’s a similar story with the full-size Range Rover Electric, because its near-unbeatable 900mm maximum fording depth is identical to the off-road kingpin that is the internal-combustion version.
Chief engineer for Range Rover, Lynfel Owen, tells Auto Express that “retaining Range Rover’s 900mm wading capability was a core requirement for Range Rover Electric from day one. Every component below the wade line is engineered to be submersible, supported by intelligent high-voltage safety systems.
“Electric propulsion enhances the all-terrain capability our clients expect from a Range Rover,” Owen adds, “and boosts robustness in deep-water conditions, with precise torque control and no requirement for engine air intakes, delivering confidence and capability when wading.” Deliveries of the £154k Range Rover Electric begin towards the end of 2026.
Driving through standing water: top tips
We asked charity IAM RoadSmart and the AA for some top tips for tackling standing water…
1. Pause for thought
This might sound like a no-brainer, but try to scope the ford out before taking the plunge and perhaps even consider an alternate route. Check the depth on foot if you can – many have measuring indicators alongside – and bear weather conditions in mind: “Recent heavy rain can make it deeper than you think,” says IAM RoadSmart’s road safety manager, Shaun Cronin.
2. Don’t follow anyone too closely
While we drove in tandem for this experiment, we were very careful to keep speeds low and distances big, because tailgating a car through a ford can prove disastrous. This is because the waves and wake generated by the car in front can create much higher water that could enter your vehicle’s engine bay or other critical openings. Also bear in mind that the vehicle ahead of you may stop suddenly.
3. Check your tyres
Your car’s tyres can also have a huge influence in how it handles deep water; off-road and all-season tyres, for example, feature special grooves designed to disperse water and provide grip on slippery surfaces. A car can be swept away by 300mm of water, so ensure your tyres aren’t overinflated so as to make your vehicle dangerously buoyant.
4. Make use of any vehicle software
Many modern vehicles have specific software, such as off-road modes, wade sensing or adjustable suspension that can make them better equipped for tackling flooded roads.
