Jaguar electrifies E-Type

Jaguar has retro-fitted the classic E-Type roadster with a bespoke battery electric drivetrain which could signal new life for low-emission classic cars.

Based on an original Series 1.5 1 E-Type the car is based on, it features a 220kW electric motor which hustles the old metal from 0-100km/h in 5.5 seconds – a full three or four seconds quicker than the 1968 original.

As part of Jaguar’s “Tech Fest” event in London, the E-Type Zero concept claims a 270km range based on mixed usage, giving new life to the old Jag.

Due to the confined proportions of the E-Type itself, battery space is limited inside the chassis. One benefit however, is the E-Type Zero weighs 46kg less than the original 3.8-litre straight six engined roadster.

A digital display provides information on the 40kWh battery charge state, which takes typically six to seven hours to recharge depending on the power source.

The lithium-ion battery pack and electric motor have been engineered to sit in exactly the same place as the original “XK” straight-six engine, proving the electric running gear could transplant to other Jags including XK120, Mk2 and XJ6 which used the same powerplant from 1949-1992.

Suspension and brakes remain unchanged due to the similar weight, size and proportions of the drivetrain, with unchanged front-to-rear weight distribution. Likewise, the reduction gear sits in exactly the same place as the original gearbox, with a new propshaft delivering power to a “carry-over” differential.

As part of Jaguar’s “Reborn” division which sees the Coventry factory restore customers’ classic cars back to pristine condition, the E-Type Zero would theoretically cost around £300,000 (nearly A$500,000).

Director of Jaguar Land Rover Classic restoration division, Tim Hannig says the reborn E-Type Zero could’ve seen

huge power outputs, but has been restrained in keeping with how the original car drives.

“In order to seamlessly combine the new electric powertrain with the dynamic setup of the original, we have limited the vehicle’s power output – we believe this provides the optimum driving experience,” Hannig says.

“Our aim is the future-proof classic car ownership,” he adds, “We’re looking forward to the reaction of our clients as we investigate bringing this concept to market.”