Jaguar has announced plans to launch a production-ready electric vehicle (EV) conversion initiative, building on the success of its E-Type Zero concept revealed last year.
The iconic British marque intends to showcase its forthcoming all-electric E-type model while also offering bespoke electric vehicle conversions for existing classic car enthusiasts.
In September of the company’s final year, they showcased a traditional E-type reborn with electric powertrain as an innovative concept vehicle.
At the time, this concept car was touted as a pioneering attempt to “offer a glimpse into Jaguar’s electric future,” making it a significant precursor to the launch of the I-Pace, Jaguar’s inaugural mass-produced electric vehicle.
Here is the rewritten text:
Building on its heritage, Jaguar is set to revive the iconic “Jaguar Traditional” brand, under which the electric vehicle will be offered as the ‘Jaguar E-Type Zero’, a nod to the legendary sports car that first debuted in 1961.
According to Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover’s traditional director, in a statement made regarding the recent announcement:
“We’re thrilled by the overwhelmingly positive reaction to our concept of a Jaguar E-type Zero.” Ensuring the enduring appeal of classic car ownership is a key strategic objective for Jaguar Classic.
E-Type Zero presents an extraordinary legacy of the E-Type, highlighting Tradition’s expertise and craftsmanship while exemplifying Jaguar Land Rover’s commitment to developing zero-emission vehicles across all aspects of its business, including Jaguar Heritage.
Jaguar Classic is poised to offer bespoke electric conversions for existing classic E-types, allowing original 1961-1975 owners to upgrade their iconic vehicles with a modern powertrain.
The British manufacturer is now accepting expressions of interest, with plans to begin initial deliveries in 2020, pending the release of technical specifications and pricing details.
Building upon the Jaguar E-type Zero concept introduced last year, we’ve developed initial specifications. Based primarily on the 1968 Sequence 1.5 Jaguar E-type Roadster.
The automaker revamped the classic vehicle by switching to electric propulsion, equipping it with a 40 kWh battery capable of delivering an estimated real-world range of approximately 270 km (170 miles), according to the company.
“The E-type Zero features a specially designed electric powertrain capable of producing 220 kW.” The lithium-ion battery pack shares identical dimensions and a comparable weight to that of the XK six-cylinder engine employed in the original E-type. Specialists responsible for developing the electric powertrain have confirmed that it will be located in the same position as the XK engine. The electric motor and reduced gear unit are situated directly behind the battery pack, mirroring the exact position of the E-type’s transmission. A newly installed propshaft efficiently transmits power to a retained differential and driveshaft assembly. The completed weight is 54 kg, a decrease of 46 kg from its original unique E-type.
Prior photos illustrate the stages permitting an electrical conversion.
Jaguar has announced plans to leverage numerous components from the Jaguar I-PACE in their upcoming electric vehicle conversion project.
Pictured below are the latest images of Jaguar’s newly unveiled automotive model.
I’m utterly thrilled by the prospect of this electric vehicle, its beauty pales in comparison to the innovative potential of a manufacturer-converted EV model, which truly gets me pumped.
Kudos are deservedly accorded to Jaguar for its bold endeavour, with a nod also extended to other esteemed manufacturers of remarkable heritage vehicles, inviting them to take note.
The fact that this automaker has successfully brought to fruition a concept that initially seemed like just another showstopper is particularly encouraging.
That’s a welcome shift in pace.
