It is a widely known fact that the Jaguar E-type is the most beautiful car in the world. Jaguar Classic, the restoration and maintenance arm for Jaguar's antique and classic cars is now accepting orders for electric E-Types.
Jaguar had debuted the E-Type Zero electric car concept back in September 2017. The car went on to achieve the title of the 'Most Beautiful Electric Car In The World' without breaking a sweat. The overwhelmingly positive response the car garnered prompted Jaguar to offer an electric version of the E-Type for sale. The company will offer bespoke E-Types restored and converted to electric drive through its Jaguar Classic facility. The project is named as E-Type Reborn Restorations and is based in Coventry, UK.
Tim Hannig, Director of Jaguar Land Rover Classic, commented: “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 specs and pricing details aren't out yet, but Jaguar is now entertaining interested customers in the E-Type Zero. The first electric E-Types will reach customers by 2020. The most interesting feature of the restoration is that the treatment is extended to Series-1 E-Types that were built by Jaguar in the 1960s. Customers of the classic car can have it converted to electric power, and Jaguar will preserve the original drivetrain should the customer want to switch to good old petrol power again.
The E-Type Zero concept is powered by a 40-kWh battery with the company targeting a range of 270km aided by the car's aerodynamic efficiency and low kerb weight. The electric E-Type can be fully charged in six to seven hours depending on the power source. Jaguar specially designed the new electric motor and single-speed reduction gear, borrowing a few critical components from the all-electric I-Pace crossover. The Zero's lithium-ion battery pack has the same dimensions and near-identical weight to the standard E-Type's 6-cylinder petrol engine and is housed in the same location. The electric motor occupies the place of the gearbox and a new propshaft sends power to a carry-over differential and final drive.
Jaguar debuted the latest iteration of the bespoke E-Type Zero finished in a rich bronze paint at the Quail on August 24.