Jaguar E-Type Zero an electric design success

The Jaguar E-type has been turning heads since 1961, and this week the company electrified E-Type fans, with the public showing off a 2017 version, the all-electric E-Type Zero.

If some of the modern designs and concepts for electric cars leave you a little cold, then the E-Type Zero will grab your attention and affection. At its launch at the 1961 Geneva Auto Salon, Enzo Ferrari famously described the E-Type as ‘the most beautiful car in the world.’ I don’t have much cause to argue with Enzo’s assessment, for either the original or the Zero.

E-Type Zero specifications

The E-type Zero takes its design cues from the 1968 Series 1.5 Jaguar E-type Roadster. For those that like their numbers, here’s a snapshot of the car’s specs:

• Speed: 0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds
• Battery: 40kWh lithium-ion battery, with a range of around 270 kilometres on a full charge; can be recharged from home overnight (typically in six to seven hours, depending on power source)
• Powertrain: 220kW electric
• Weight and dimensions: the powertrain and battery, has a similar weight and dimensions to the original E-Type’s XK engine; the new version weighs 46 kilograms less than the original car

It’s certainly not the most powerful electric car out there, nor does it have the longest battery range, but this too is by design.

“In order to seamlessly combine the new electric powertrain of E-type Zero with the dynamic set-up of the original E-type specification, we have limited the vehicle’s power output. We believe this provides the optimum driving experience,” said Tim Hannig, Director Jaguar Land Rover Classic.

“Our aim with E-type Zero is to future-proof classic car ownership. We’re looking forward to the reaction of our clients as we investigate bringing this concept to market,” said Tim Hannig.

Will it go on sale?

The E-type Zero has been made to show at Jaguar Land Rover’s Tech Fest, taking place this week. The big question is of course will it make it into production. That depends on the (probably deep) pockets, hearts, and minds of interested buyers.