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New I-Pace: Jaguar reveals electric SUV concept

Cape Town - Jaguar says the I-Pace Concept is one of the most visually arresting concepts it ever produced.

Taking full advantage of the packaging freedom offered by electrification, the design and engineering teams took the opportunity to rethink the vehicle’s overall proportions.

Without an internal combustion engine and transmission tunnel to package, the I-Pace Concept’s design brings the cabin forward, extends the wheelbase and shortens the overhangs, says Jag. 

Jaguar South Africa has confirmed the electric performance SUV will be on the production line our local market too and will arrive here in 2018.

All-round view

With its streamlined profile, sweeping lines, large wheels and pronounced rear haunches, the I-Pace Concept, says the automaker, incorporates hallmarks of the Jaguar brand with new lines to create a design that speaks of performance, innovation and style.

READ: Jaguar's F-Pace drive

The low bonnet, flanked by curving wheel arches, combines sports car aesthetics with an SUV’s presence. A broad, distinctive grille retains a key element of Jaguar design DNA while also providing aerodynamic benefits, says Jaguar.

A slender composite spoiler is added to enhance the vehicle’s sporting character as well as to reduce lift at higher speeds without generating drag.

The LED taillights, while similar to those on other Jaguar models, square off the roundel graphic for a more pronounced look.


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The digital car

The I-Pace Concept’s floating centre console rises to connect with the dashboard and also positions gearshift functions on its metal struts.

Jag says Graphic elements of the human machine interface (HMI) have an editorial, monochromatic feel with a warmer, more human focus, mirroring current technology trends.

Gallery: Jaguar I-Pace Concept

Lighter font weights and the sparing use of colour are aimed at improving communication and reducing the driver’s information workload.

The primary interface is a 12” TFT touchscreen, while a separate, 5.5” secondary touchscreen is paired with two laser etched aluminium rotaries.

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Performance and range

The I-Pace Concept has electric motors at the front and rear axles. Together these deliver 294kW/700Nm. The vehicle is also equipped with electric all-wheel drive. Jaguar says that by positioning the I-Pace Concept’s battery beneath the floor and between the axles, it lowers the centre of gravity and reduces dynamic traits.

READ: Formula E - Jaguar returns to racing with electric car

By selecting a higher level of regenerative braking in stop-and-go traffic, for instance, the driver can drive with a single pedal, with no need to apply the brakes to halt the car, says Jaguar.

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For most customers, the I-Pace Concept will be the first electric car they have owned; hence Jaguar says the vehicle has an electric range of more than 500km on the European NEDC combined cycle and more than 350km on the US EPA cycle. The battery can be charged at public charging stations, a dedicated wall box at home, or simply using conventional domestic power sockets.

Charging is easy and quick, with 80% charge achieved in 90 minutes and 100% in just over two hours using 50kW DC charging.

Image: MotorPress

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