Electric E-type gets green light

| 24 Aug 2018
Classic & Sports Car – Electric E-type gets green light

Zero emissions E-types are to become a production reality.

Jaguar Land Rover Classic has announced that bespoke models restored and converted to electric power will be built at its Classic Works facility in Coventry.

Do you think it's sacrilege? You're unlikely to be alone. But it seems one of the automotive stars of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's wedding in May has captured the public's imagination.

At least the EV conversion will be fully reversible.

Classic & Sports Car – Electric E-type gets green light

Classic & Sports Car – Electric E-type gets green light
Classic & Sports Car – Electric E-type gets green light

It takes six to seven hours to recharge the Jaguar E-type Zero

Originally released as a concept last year and borrowing tech from the I-PACE SUV, the E-type Zero accelerates faster than the original Series 1 and Jaguar hopes for a 170-mile range.

As these pictures show, the cabin has modified instrumentation and an optional dash with a touchscreen infotainment system, while LED headlamps light the way.

Power comes from a 40kWh battery, which can be recharged in six to seven hours, depending on power source.

The lithium-ion battery pack has the same dimensions, and a similar weight, to the standard E-type’s petrol 'six' and is in the same location.

Behind this, where you'd usually find the gearbox, is the electric motor, plus a new propshaft sends power to a carry-over differential and final drive.

Classic & Sports Car – Electric E-type gets green light

The cars will be restored and converted to order, deliveries from summer 2020

As the weight and dimensions of the electric powertrain are close to that of the British classic, the all-electric E-type uses stock brakes and suspension, maintaining the original's weight distribution.

Full technical details have yet to be published and customer deliveries are expected from summer 2020.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the positive reaction to the Jaguar E-type Zero concept," said Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover Classic's Director. "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 Jaguar Land Rover’s dedication to creating zero emission vehicles across every part of the business, including Jaguar Classic.”

The EV sports-car concept debuted at the Jaguar Land Rover Tech Fest in September 2017. Its first US appearance is today (24 August) at The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering.

Classic & Sports Car – Electric E-type gets green light

The original's weight distribution is preserved – and all work is reversible


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