The First Model Designed from Scratch

Jaguar Cars is preparing its electric vehicle,I-PACE"I-PACE." Described as "the first model designed from scratch" (according to Jaguar Cars' materials), it is a pure EV that houses a lithium-ion battery under the floor and is driven by a motor at the front and rear. In addition to being a Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV), it blends the present and future with its "Jaguar-like driving dynamics" (as stated by a development representative).

The Jaguar I-PACE was revealed in Los Angeles in November 2016. It made its public debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, held from November 18th, generating significant buzz. Jaguar refers to it as a "5-door sports car," and its concept, unbound by traditional SUV notions, is particularly striking.

With a massive torque of 700Nm, its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4 seconds rivals that of super sports cars. Simultaneously, the elimination of the internal combustion engine, transmission, and fuel tank has led to a completely new packaging design. Ian Callum, Jaguar's Director of Design, proudly states, "This will be a new chapter in automotive history." It is a model that truly sets itself apart, both in content and appearance.

California mandates a certain number of Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs) in a manufacturer's lineup through ZEV regulations. While Jaguar's current vehicles may not be subject to these regulations, it is said that all manufacturers selling in California will eventually be included. China, a crucial market for Jaguar Cars, is also moving towards strengthening emissions regulations. In this context, the Jaguar I-PACE is expected to hold a significant position in securing dominance within the premium segment.

Prior to the auto show, an exclusive preview for the press and select guests was held at a large studio in Beverly Hills called Milk Studios. The person who appeared there was quite unexpected.

An Unveiling Event Featuring Miranda Kerr

This demonstrates how seriously Jaguar Cars is taking the I-PACE. As proof, consider the special preview event. We, the invited guests, were led to an area with tables set up with headphones. There was no car in sight. When prompted, we put on the headphones, and the I-PACE presentation began. It was a visually stunning experience, making us feel as if we were actually driving the car. After the presentation, we were finally introduced to the actual vehicle.

"If a designer were to draw a car with a free hand, they would likely create a package that places the driver between the front and rear wheels. That is the ideal form for a sporty car. And with the I-PACE, that has become a reality."

As mentioned earlier, Ian Callum, Jaguar Cars' Director of Design, traveled from the UK to appear at the presentation. Callum emphasized the novelty of the I-PACE's styling, made possible by the absence of an internal combustion engine. In the sense that it realizes a long-held ideal, it can be called both old and new design. Its utilization of technological advancements may also be similar to modern digital devices. Rather than offering something entirely unseen, it aims to gain consumer support by fulfilling long-standing desires. The I-PACE may embody this same principle.

The unveiling event was divided into two parts: daytime and evening. The evening session was a cocktail party, designed to allow guests to enjoy the I-PACE's world in a more relaxed atmosphere. It was then that Miranda Kerr, a model also known as a Victoria's Secret Angel, made an appearance. She posed in front of the I-PACE, offering a captivating smile. In the sense of connecting to the anticipation of a new lifestyle, the I-PACE is also glamorous. It could be said that two forms of glamour shared the same space and time.

Even the purchasing experience is exciting.

Reservations Have Already Begun

"This is a vehicle developed entirely from scratch, combining the best technologies we have available. We have pursued space efficiency, driving pleasure, and performance with utmost dedication," says Dr. Wolfgang Ziebart, Technical Design Director at Jaguar Land Rover, who oversaw the project.

Under the floor, 36 pouch-type lithium-ion battery modules generate 90kWh. Electric motors producing 200 horsepower and 350Nm are mounted front and rear, driving all four wheels. The total torque of 700Nm is equivalent to that of the currentF-TYPE SVR" super sports car. The drive is controlled by a computer, and torque vectoring, which stabilizes the car's behavior when cornering by controlling not only the front and rear torque but also the distribution between the wheels, is incorporated here.

The interior design is also innovative, but not excessively so. This is because, while the I-PACE is an SUV, it has a strong sporty character. Therefore, the concept of "form follows function" becomes crucial, especially when considering intuitive human use. The primary challenge becomes ensuring safe operation even at high speeds, aligning with the design philosophy of sports cars.

As previously mentioned, the seating position is unusually low for an SUV. This is fundamentally Jaguar's proposal for the future as a sports car manufacturer. From the thin yet supportive and innovatively designed seats to the usability of the dashboard controls, there appears to be a good balance between novelty and functionality. While it's impossible to judge fully without driving it, the fact that it will be on the roads in 2018 is a testament to Jaguar Cars' forward-thinking approach and commitment.

Reservations have already begun. Clicking "I WANT ONE" on the website directs you to the reservation page. While a deposit is required in some regions, it is not necessary in Japan. It's truly exciting that the future can be obtained with a simple click.