Jaguar’s all-electric I-Pace has gone on sale in the UK in S, SE and HSE derivatives alongside a First Edition.
With a 90kWh lithium-ion battery, the I-Pace claims a range of up to 298 miles (on the new WLTP cycle) and owners will be able to achieve a 0-80% battery charge in an hour and a half using a rapid charger unit (50kW).
I-Pace will be fully compatible with next-generation DC rapid chargers (100kW) as the technology is rolled out across the UK, which will enable a zero to 80% charge in just 40 minutes. Home charging with an AC wall box (7kW) will achieve the same state of charge in just over ten hours, which is acceptable for most overnight charging purposes.
A number of smart range-optimising technologies help to squeeze every mile out of the car’s range. This includes a battery pre-conditioning system, which automatically raises (or lowers) the temperature of the car’s battery while plugged in to maximise range when you drive away.
Twin electric motors for all-wheel drive traction
Two electric motors – which feature driveshafts passing through the motors themselves for compactness – are placed at each axle, with the aim of delivering a combined performance of 400hp and 696Nm, and all-wheel-drive, all-surface traction. The two motors help launch the I-Pace from a standing start to 60mph in just 4.5 seconds.
The I-Pace’s aluminium architecture uses sophisticated riveting and bonding technology to deliver a light, stiff body structure. Together with the structural battery pack, it has a torsional rigidity of 36kNm/degree – the highest of any Jaguar.
The battery is placed centrally between the two axles, and as low down as possible, with a seal between the housing and the underfloor. This location enables an ideal 50:50 weight distribution and a low centre of gravity: together with the advanced double wishbone front and multi-link rear axle with (optional) air suspension and configurable suspension settings, Jaguar promises agile handling and outstanding ride comfort.
Its sleek, coupé-like silhouette is inspired by the Jaguar C-X75 concept car from several years ago, and also helps provide class-leading aerodynamics. When additional cooling is required, active vanes in the grille can open to allow more air in, then close again when no longer needed to smooth airflow and reduce drag.
Improved interior space and infotainment
Inside, the layout optimises space for passengers. Although the I-Pace is a mid-sized SUV, the cab-forward design and electric powertrain mean that interior space is more comparable to large SUVs. Rear legroom is helped by the lack of any transmission tunnel, plus there is extra storage space under the seats. Boot space is 656 litres, increasing to 1,453 litres when the rear seats are folded flat.
I-Pace also debuts Jaguar’s new Touch Pro Duo infotainment system, which uses a combination of touchscreens, capacitive sensors and tactile physical controls to make it intuitive to use. Hopefully, this will eliminate a significant weakness in all Jaguar models of recent years, whose infotainment systems have lagged behind those of its rivals.
The navigation system is also designed to specifically address the unique needs of an electric vehicle. It can assess the topography of the route and gain insights from previous journeys, including driving style, to calculate personalised range and charging status. The aim is to provide improved accuracy to ensure maximum driver confidence.
The Jaguar I-Pace is available to order now, with prices starting at £58,995 on-road (including the £4,500 government plug-in car grant).
