Jaguar produce “electric” E-type
Jaguar has produced an electric-engined version of their classic E-type roadster and say the technology could be applied to other classic Jaguar models.
What some may see it as an advance and others as an abhorrence, was unveiled at the Jaguar Land Rover Tech Fest in London this past September.
Same, but Different
Produced by Jaguar Land Rover Classic (JLRC), as part of a comprehensive restoration of a 1968 ‘Series 1.5’ E-type roadster, the “E-type Zero” looks exactly the same as its conventionally-powered namesake, but under the bonnet, a lithium-ion battery pack occupies the space normally taken by a 4.2-litre ‘XK’ six-cylinder petrol engine, while an electric motor with reduction gear replaces the 4-speed manual gearbox. Aft of this, a new driveshaft connects to a conventional diff. The inverter and other electric componentry is hidden under the boot floor, with the electric plug-in socket in place of the fuel nozzle.
The battery pack is comparable in size and weight to the XK iron-block six, but overall, the electrification reduces weight by a claimed 46kg, while retaining the same front-rear balance. Power output is improved from the petrol-engined version’s 198kW to 220kW and drops the 0-100km/h sprint time by one second to 5.5 seconds, but top speed remains the same at 240km/h. JLRC says more power could be offered, but the initial aim was to closely replicate the original E-type’s output.
Range from the 40kWh battery pack is claimed at around 270 kms, with full charge achieved in six to seven hours, depending on the power source. Other mechanical componentry, like suspension, steering and brakes, are as per a petrol-engined E-type.
In the cabin, the E-Type Zero features a carbon-fibre dash, modern digital instrumentation and a central touchscreen infotainment centre. The electric powertrain removes the need for a conventional gearstick (as well as a clutch and clutch pedal), so in its place is a rotary controller with simple ‘R’ (reverse), ‘N’ (neutral) and ‘D’ (drive) options. The latter is essential for the electric powertrain, but JLRC says a conventional dash could be retained. The Zero also replaces the original headlights with modern LED units.
Future Proofing
Tim Hannig, Director of JLRC, sees the technology used in the E-type Zero as a way to “future proof” classic car ownership. By offering a zero-emission alternative to modern electric cars, Hannig says enthusiasts will be able to drive a classic in the years to come, especially in emission-free zones that may be applied to large cities.
Acknowledging that some owners may not want to permanently alter their classic, all the electric powertrain changes used in the E-type Zero are reversible.
“We have integrated the new electric powertrain into the existing E-type structure, which means a conventional engine could be re-installed at any point. We think this is essential as it ensures a period Jaguar remains authentic to its DNA.”
Given the size and weight of the battery pack and electric motor mirrors that of the petrol engine and transmission, Hannig adds that the electric powertrain could be retrofitted to any Jaguar – XK120, XK150, Mk2, XJ6, etc. – that originally ran the XK engine.
“We’re looking forward to the reaction of our clients as we investigate bringing this concept to market.”
JLRC says productionising the concept will depend on demand, but even using some of the electric componentry already developed for the upcoming I-Pace electric SUV to reduce costs, each conversion is expected to cost close to AU$500,000.
