Zero-emissions iconic sports car breaks cover today at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, during Monterey Car Week.
Following an overwhelmingly positive reaction to the original Concept for ‘the most beautiful electric car in the world’, Jaguar Classic has confirmed it will offer all-electric E-types for sale. The news follows the EV sports car Concept’s successful debut at Jaguar Land Rover Tech Fest in September 2017.
Combining its restoration expertise with cutting-edge technology from the Jaguar I-PACE, the award-winning zero-emissions performance SUV, Jaguar Classic will offer tailor-made E-types restored and converted to electric power at the same Classic Works facility as its outstanding E-type Reborn restorations in Coventry, UK. An EV conversion service for existing E-type owners will also be offered. To preserve the authenticity of the base vehicle, the EV conversion will be fully reversible.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the positive reaction to the Jaguar E-type Zero Concept. Future-proofing the enjoyment of classic car ownership is a major stepping-stone for Jaguar Classic,” said Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover Classic Director.
“E-type Zero showcases the incredible heritage of the E-type, and the expertise and craftsmanship at Classic Works, while demonstrating Jaguar Land Rover’s dedication to creating zero emission vehicles across every part of the business, including Jaguar Classic.”
The Jaguar E-type Zero not only drives and looks like an E-type, it also offers outstanding performance, with quicker acceleration than the original Series 1 E-type. Jaguar Classic is targeting a range in excess of 170 miles for all-electric E-types, helped by the car’s low curb weight and sleek aerodynamics. The concept is powered by a 40kWh battery, which can be recharged in six to seven hours, depending on power source.
Apart from its state-of-the-art powertrain, modified instrumentation and fascia showcasing the latest touchscreen infotainment (which will be available as an option), the E-type Zero Concept is largely original. Efficient LED headlights complement the iconic Series 1 design.
An electric powertrain with single-speed reduction gear has been specially designed for the E-type, utilizing many Jaguar I-PACE components. Its lithium-ion battery pack has the same dimensions, and similar weight, to the standard E-type’s six-cylinder XK engine and is in the same location. The electric motor lies just behind the battery pack, in place of the E-type’s gearbox. A new driveshaft sends power to a carry-over differential and final drive. Using an electric powertrain with similar weight and dimensions to the original engine and transmission means the car’s structure, including suspension and brakes, has not changed. Thus simplifying the conversion and keeping the driving experience in line with the original vehicle. It drives, handles, rides and brakes like an original E-type with front-rear weight distribution unchanged. Deliveries of the first electric E-type Zero vehicles are expected to start from summer 2020.
For more information, technical specifications, pricing and availability as well as details of other Continuation models, please visithttps://www.jaguar.com/about-jaguar/jaguar-classic/index.html