Jaguar Made A Surprising Start To Their Electric Car Dream In Formula E
When Jaguar decided to make a surprising return to motorsport in the form of Formula E many were critical. They wondered why such a well respected company would try to compete in a fledgling series few were paying attention to. Well Jaguar soon revealed their ulterior motive: at the 2016 LA Motorshow, the I-Pace was revealed. Designed by Ian Callum, the Jaguar I-Pace is a high-riding all electric SUV squarely aimed at taking on the Tesla Model X. Jaguar have now put the final production model on sale, saying that it “puts them at the forefront of the electric revolution”.
Out Ranging And Out Pacing Its Main Rival The Tesla Model X 75D
Powered by two high tech electric motors, the Jaguar I-Pace is all wheel drive and capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. This is faster than all the Model X versions apart from the monstrous P100D and is very speedy for a vehicle weighing in at just over two tonnes. The I-Pace’s all electric power is equivalent to 395BHP with a generous 696Nm of torque also on offer. Where it really stands out amongst other electric cars is its range. The Jaguar I-Pace has an amazing 298 miles range which beats the similarly priced Model X 75D, which can only manage 259 miles.
A Jaguar That, Well, Handles Like A Jaguar
The problem with many electric cars is that due to the weight of the battery, the centre of gravity along with the handling are compromised. To minimise this, Jaguar have set the batteries low between the two axles, which has enabled them to achieve a perfect 50:50 weight distribution. “Together with the advanced double wishbone front and integral link rear axle with (optional) air suspension and configurable adaptive dynamics, this delivers agile handling and outstanding ride comfort,” they explained.
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A Striking Design Inspired By The CX75 Supercar Concept
The smart, sweeping exterior was inspired by the CX75 concept supercar, with a short front end, aero enhanced roofline and curved rear screen all adding to the unique look of the Jaguar I-Pace. The interior is where the vehicle really shines. Thanks to the lack of a transmission tunnel, a generous 10.5 litre storage space is available in the front, with multiple storage areas in the rear. The boot of the I-Pace is a cavernous 656 litres normally, increasing to 1453 litres with the rear seats down.
No Autonomous Mode Planned At The Moment
Whereas Tesla have focused on their now famous Autopilot technology to take control off the driver, Jaguar have concentrated on making life easier for the driver. The I-Pace features Amazon Alexa technology so the driver can ask, “Do I have enough power to get to work?” or “Is my car locked?”, all available from a phone app. The Jaguar I-Pace contains few autonomous features unlike its rival but also manages to be cheaper, starting from £63,495 compared to the base Model X 75D’s £70,500.
Jaguar I-Pace Gallery
What do you think of the new Jaguar I-Pace? Does it compare well with the incredible Tesla Model X? Please let us know in the comments section.
