Jaguar unleashes new EV onto the roads of the UK
Jaguar has unleashed its first electric vehicle – the Jaguar I-Pace – onto the streets of the UK for the first time.
Driving on the streets of London’s famous Olympic Park, the electric performance SUV concept is set to be Jaguar’s first electric vehicle – and one of the most important models in its illustrious history.
Displayed at motor shows in the United States and Geneva, the I-Pace has yet to receive its full UK debut, which is set to be revealed in late 2017, with the vehicle likely to hit the roads in the UK in the second half of 2018.
Ian Callum, Director of Design at Jaguar, said the initial feedback on the car had been very positive.
“With the I-Pace Concept we’ve torn up the rule book to create a vehicle with supercar inspired aesthetics, sports car performance and SUV space, in one electric package. It has surprised people and the enthusiasm for our first electric vehicle has been beyond all my expectations,” he said.
“Driving the concept on the streets is really important for the design team. It’s very special to put the car outside and in the real-world. You can see the true value of the I-Pace’s dramatic silhouette and powerful proportions when you see it on the road, against other cars.
“The I-Pace Concept represents the next generation of battery electric vehicle design. For me, the future of motoring has arrived.”
Jaguar said the new car was intended to be a long distance sprinter; a model capable of accelerating from zero to 60 mph in around 4 seconds, with a range of more than 500km (NEDC cycle) from its 90kWh lithium-ion battery.
Compact, lightweight electric motors at the front of the car and rear axles generate a combined output of 400PS and 700Nm of torque, while the car also benefits from all-wheel drive capability.
“The I-Pace will deliver the agility, ride comfort and refinement that will set it apart from all other electric vehicles: it will be a true Jaguar and a true drivers’ car,” said the company.
One of the main hurdles electric vehicles have had to overcome thus far has been the charging of the vehicle.
Jaguar claims its charging technology will see an 80% charge achieved in just 90 minutes using 50kW DC charging.
