Zero emission Jaguar E-type to soon be a reality

To the delight of E-type fans the world over, Jaguar has announced that the E-type Zero will make it to series production. The existing E-types can also be converted to EVs and the process is completely reversible, in case a silent E-type doesn’t turn out to be your cup of tea. The Jaguar E-type Zero concept, the modern-day electric take on a car that is widely regarded as ‘the most beautiful car in the world’, was first showcased at Jaguar Land Rover Tech Fest in September 2017.

On the outside, the Zero emission E-type is the same as the original E-type, except for the LED headlights. The dashboard now houses a high-tech blue backlit instrument cluster. The dashboard is dominated by a big infotainment screen (optional) which also gives information like the power consumed, efficiency and a performance graph. A single rotary knob is present on the centre console which should enable the driver to switch between different drive modes. Overall, the dash is elegantly done with minimalistic styling.

Jaguar Classic has not yet revealed the technical details of the production version of the E-type EV. The concept car is powered by a 40kWh battery, which can be recharged in six to seven hours, depending on the power source used. Due to the car’s ‘low kerb weight’ and ‘sleek aerodynamics’, the company is targeting a range of 270km on a single charge for the E-type EV. Jaguar claims that the E-type Zero concept offers better performance and acceleration than the original Series 1 E-type. The lithium-ion battery pack weighs more or less the same as the standard E-type’s 6-cylinder petrol XK engine, according to the company. A single-speed reduction gear is specifically designed for the E-type EV, using components borrowed from the I-Pace. The electric motor is located behind the battery pack, in place of the gearbox. The weight distribution is unchanged, says Jaguar Classic. Suspension and the brakes have not been changed either.

Jaguar says that deliveries of the first electric E-type will begin from summer of 2020. Currently, the company is evaluating prospective customers for its electric E-type.

Tim Hannig, director of Jaguar Land Rover Classic said, “We’ve been overwhelmed by the positive reaction to the E-type Zero concept. Future-proofing the enjoyment of classic car ownership is a major stepping stone for Jaguar Classic. E-type Zero showcases the incredible heritage of the E-type, and the expertise and craftsmanship at Classic Works, while demonstrating JLR’s dedication to creating zero emission vehicles across every part of the business, including Jaguar Classic.”