Jaguar Classic Launch an Electric Jaguar E-Type

08th Sep 2017

Article updated: 17/09/2018 - Jaguar Classic confirms the Electric E-Type will go on sale

When a car is named 'The most beautiful car in the world' it would be foolish for a brand not to preserve this for years to come.

The Jaguar E-type has always sprung to the minds of individuals as a car of pure beauty and craftsmanship. Jaguar have worked hard, since the original model was launched back in 1961, to ensure that they have maintained this vision while launching exciting concepts. The launch of Jaguar Land Rover Classic completed the production of the 'missing six' Lightweight E-type models in 2014, one of which was acquired by the Stratstone group, and has since been creating its own legacy both across the UK and further afield.

Now, three years later in 2017, an exciting development has been launched, set to electrify the past. Restored at the same location as the Lightweight, Classic Works in Coventry, an inventive Jaguar E-type sports car is born - The E-type Concept Zero.

Jaguar Land Rover Classic have put a spin on Jaguar's vision and FUTURE-TYPE concept which aspires to meet the mobility needs of future generations. Rather than putting complete focus on new models, the team have electrified the past, with a 1968 Series 1.5 E-type Roadster taking one of the centre spots in the FUTURE-TYPE concept roll out next to the upcoming I-PACE 5-seater sports car.

While the roadster maintains its original external appearance, it has been re-engineered from the inside out. Under the bonnet lies an entirely new set up, a cutting-edge electric powertrain which propels the car from 0-62mph in an incredible 5.5 seconds, faster than the original E-type Series 1 by one second. A revolutionary achievement combining the historical beauty of the E-type with zero emissions.

Like the remaining Lightweight E-type models which were brought to life in 2014, the E-type Zero has been restored in line with original specification using the same materials and techniques where possible. Apart from the revolutionary electric power-train, the only other differences to the original specification are the redesigned instrument cluster and facia in the cockpit as well as LED headlights, which contribute to the efficiency of the electric Jaguar. These modern touches have been designed and styled in line with the original Series 1 Jaguar E-Type design.

An incredible amount of work has gone into the design of the classic electric car engine, which has been developed from scratch for the E-type Concept Zero. The original XK engine specification was also taken into account with the lithium-ion battery being of similar proportions and weight to the original six-cylinder. The layout of the engine bay has been configured so that the electric powertrain sits in the same place as the XK engine, meaning a conventional engine could be reinstalled if desired, allowing a period Jaguar to remain authentic to its DNA.

With the front-rear weight distribution remaining unchanged, the E-type Zero is just like the original; it drives, handles and rides in the same way. There is an exciting prospect for future models, as the original XK engine was fitted to almost all of Jaguar's iconic models in that time, meaning the any of these models could be equipped with this electrician power. Possibly an insight of what is to come from Jaguar Land Rover Classic.

Tim Hannig, Director of Jaguar Land Rover Classic, said: "Concept Zero combines the renowned E-type dynamic experience with enhanced performance through electrification. This unique combination creates a breath-taking driving sensation."

With electrification becoming more and more present in the new car market, the initiative which has brought the E-type Zero has created an exciting outlook on the possible future for classic vehicles.

Jaguar E-Type Zero at the Royal Wedding

If you're thinking you have seen this car recently, you probably caught a glimpse of it at the Royal wedding last month. After Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tied the knot at Windsor Castle, they drove off in the stunning 1968 silver blue Jaguar E-type Concept Zero.

The classic car lives on and plays its part at crucial moments in history, thanks to its conversion to an all-electric powertrain. It said goodbye to its faithful gearbox and six-cylinder XK engine and said hello to a 220kw battery and motor, which is estimated to deliver a performance of 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds.

The iconic Jaguar was handpicked by the royals in celebration of a monumental scene which was truly British. If you're thinking of investing in one yourself, the estimated price tag for this particular E-Type is around £350,000.

Jaguar Classic confirms the Electric E-Type will go on sale

Following the iconic EV sports car’s successful debut in concept form at the Jaguar Land Rover Tech fest last year, Jaguar Classic have now confirmed they will make the all-electric E-type available for purchase.

Combining its invaluable restoration experience with the innovative technology used in the Jaguar I-PACE, Jaguar Classic will tailor-make, restore and convert the E-type to electric power at the Classic Works Facility in Coventry.

An EV conversion service will be offered to existing E-type owners, which is fully reversible to preserve the authenticity of the base vehicle.

Tim Hannig, Director of Jaguar Land Rover Classic, said: “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.

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.”

Technical specifications and pricing details have yet to be published, but Jaguar Classic are now accepting inquiries from potential E-type Zero clients. Deliveries of the first electric E-types are expected to take place from Summer 2020.