Jaguar Land Rover Classic is presenting an all-electric Jaguar E-Type at the Tech Fest taking place in London. The "Concept Zero" model is based on a restored original vehicle and was given an emission-free drivetrain at Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works in Coventry - not far from the birthplace of the legendary original.
The classic car for the future?
"Concept Zero combines the dynamic handling of the E-Type with further enhanced performance thanks to electrification. This unique combination creates a breathtaking driving experience," says Tim Hannig, Director, Jaguar Land Rover Classic. "With the Concept Zero, we want to ensure that enthusiasts can continue to enjoy classic Jaguar models in the future. In the next step, we will examine a market launch of the Concept Zero based on the reactions of our customers." The Jaguar E-Type Concept Zero not only has the looks and handling of the E-Type, but also offers exceptional driving performance: From a standstill, the electric roadster is one second faster to 100 km/h than an E-Type Series 1 at 5.5 seconds.
"In order to achieve a seamless combination of the electric drivetrain and the suspension set-up of the original, we have throttled back the power. We think we have created the optimum driving experience," says Tim Hannig.
The Concept Zero on show for the first time at the Tech Fest is based on a 1.5 series E-Type restored by Jaguar Land Rover Classics. Apart from the drive and the dashboard - which is nevertheless inspired by the historic model - including the displays housed there, the vehicle is completely original. LED headlights are used to maximize energy efficiency. Here too, however, the Jaguar Land Rover Classic team followed the design theme of the historic Series 1.
Tailor-made powertrain
The 220 kW powertrain was specially adapted to the E-Type Concept Zero. The dimensions and weight of the lithium-ion battery correspond almost exactly to the XK six-cylinder engine that normally sits under the hood - the installation position is also identical. The electric motor and the reduction gearbox are located directly behind the battery - and therefore in the same position as the four-speed gearbox of the historic model. A new cardan shaft transmits the power to the differential and the axle drive. Overall, the Concept Zero is 80 kilograms lighter than the "classic" E-Type.
Thanks to an electric powertrain with similar weights and dimensions to the previously installed petrol engine, the Concept Zero inherits the entire structure, including suspensions and brakes, from the original model. This made the conversion and homologation process easier for Jaguar Land Rover Classic. The weight distribution is also identical. As a result, the E-Type Concept Zero drives, brakes and springs exactly like its 1968 counterpart.
"We have implanted the new electric drivetrain into the existing structure of the E-Type. This means that a conventional engine can be installed again at any time. We think this is very important so as not to damage the DNA of a historic Jaguar," emphasizes Tim Hannig.
Soon also in the XK120?
Jaguar built the XK straight-six engine from 1949 to 1992. Over this long period, it was used in models as diverse as the E-Type, the XK120, the MKII and the XJ6. The new electric drive system could be installed in any of the vehicles listed here. "We can use this technology for all classic Jaguars with an XK engine," emphasizes Tim Hannig.
"The most beautiful car of all time" (Enzo Ferrari)
Unveiled in Geneva in 1961, the Jaguar E-Type is still one of the most legendary sports cars of all time. Even Enzo Ferrari was impressed and described it as "the most beautiful car ever built."
The Concept Zero's electric powertrain was jointly developed by an electric powertrain specialist and Jaguar Land Rover engineers according to precise specifications from Jaguar Land Rover Classics. The teams also used technologies and components from the upcoming I-Pace; the first series-produced electrically powered Jaguar. Thanks to its low weight and good aerodynamics, the E-Type Concept Zero offers a range of up to 270 kilometers under everyday conditions. Depending on the power source, the 40 kWh battery can be recharged overnight in six to seven hours.
Further information is available from Jaguar Land Rover.
