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Jaguar Land Rover has confirmed that from 2020, all of its new models will be at least partially electrified. The announcement was made at the Tech Fest technology fair in London.
Dr Ralf Speth, Jaguar Land Rover Chief Executive Officer, said: "Every new Jaguar Land Rover model line will be electrified from 2020, giving our customers even more choice. We will introduce a portfolio of electrified products across our model range, embracing fully electric, plug-in hybrid and mild hybrid vehicles. Our first fully electric performance SUV, the Jaguar I-Pace, goes on sale next year."
Jaguar was also using the Tech Fest to show off some new cars. Well one new car (that doesn't really exist yet) and one old car (that's not actually for sale - yet). The new car is Jaguar's concept Future-Type, an electric, semi-autonomous vehicle supposedly for production in 2040, which uses the clever 'Sayer' intelligent steering wheel to allow a driver to bring their personal preferences seamlessly into a shared or hired autonomous car.
The idea of the Future-Type is that it's very much semi-autonomous, with the car taking care of the dull, boring bits such as traffic or commuting, and you taking over to enjoy yourself when the clear, twisty bits hove into view.
"Future-Type offers an insight into the potential for driving and car ownership in the future. It's part of our vision for how a luxury car brand could continue to be desirable, in a more digital and autonomous age," said Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar.
"Our Future-Type Concept is an advanced research project looking at how we can ensure an on-demand Jaguar will appeal to customers in 2040 and beyond.Whether it's commuting to work, autonomously collecting children from school or enjoying driving yourself on the weekend in the countryside, if there's a choice of on-demand cars driving around city streets, we need to ensure customers desire our 24/7 service over our competitors."
Possibly more excitingly, Jaguar has also created an electric E-Type. Yes, you heard that right. The firm's Classic division has taken an original 1968 E-Type convertible, removed its 4.2-litre XK straight-six engine, and installed a bespoke 220kW electric drivetrain. Jag says that the E-Type Zero is good for a 5.5-second 0-100km/h run, and can go for a claimed 270km on one charge. It's a one-off for now, but there is a slim chance it could be offered for sale in limited numbers.
Tim Hannig, Director, Jaguar Land Rover Classic, said: "E-type Zero combines the renowned E-type dynamic experience with enhanced performance through electrification. This unique combination creates a breathtaking driving sensation. 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."