Jaguar I-Pace Concept revealed

Jaguar reveals concept images of its futuristic I-Pace all-electric crossover.

Jaguar has revealed images of its futuristic I-Pace Concept. As its name suggests the Jaguar I-Pace Concept is an all-electric SUV. The I-Pace Concept will be powered by a set of permanent magnet electric motor integrated to the front and rear axles to make for an all-wheel drive system. The motors will be powered by a 90kWh lithium-ion battery pack with pouch cells selected for their energy density, superior thermal performance due to lower internal resistance. The battery pack is also liquid cooled to improve battery efficiency. The combined power output of both motors is 400HP of power and 700Nm of torque, giving the car a 0 – 100 km/h time of around 4 seconds. The end result is claimed driving range of 500km on the European NEDC combined cycle and more than 220 miles on the US EPA cycle.

Due to its clever packaging of the battery pack between the wheels and the layout of the electric motors and single speed epicyclic transmission, the Jaguar I-Pace Concept has an ideal 50:50 weight distribution for optimal handling capabilities.

In terms of context to its dimensions, the I-Pace Concept is smaller than the F-Pace crossover. Suspension layout is a traditional double wishbone setup at the front and an integral link system at the back.

Design wise, on the face of it the Jaguar I-Pace Concept has all those intrinsic Jaguar design cues. But in truth, there are a lot of futuristic design elements in there. The lack of an internal combustion engine means there is plenty of design freedom. As a result the I-Pace Concept has a cab forward design that allows the passenger cabin to be closer to the front of the car. This frees up space for a larger cabin for occupants. Meanwhile shorter overhangs means that the car’s dynamic capabilities are increased. All of Jaguar’s motorsport experience along with clever aerodynamic measures have been incorporated to ensure the I-Pace concept has a very low drag coefficient.

The interiors of the Jaguar I-Pace Concept uses a new floating centre console design that incorporates switchgear while the touchscreen infotainment system is mounted higher up on the dash. The flat floor of the I-Pace Concept means that occupants will have a much more comfortable cabin to sit in.

“The I-PACE Concept is a radical departure for electric vehicles. It represents the next generation of battery electric vehicle design. It’s a dramatic, future-facing design – the product of authentic Jaguar DNA matched with beautiful, premium details and British craftsmanship,” said, Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar.

“This isn’t just a concept. It is a preview of a five-seat production car that will be on the road in 2018. This will be Jaguar’s first-ever battery-powered electric vehicle and opens a new chapter in the history of our legendary brand,” added Callum.