Jaguar I-Pace – brand’s first all-electric vehicle debuts with 400 PS, 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds, 480 km range

Jaguar has finally taken the wraps off its first all-electric production vehicle, the I-Pace – first previewed way back in November 2016. The EV slots in between the E-Pace and F-Pace in terms of size, and will compete against the Tesla Model X.

Built on a bespoke aluminium architecture, the I-Pace boasts a stiff body structure that has the highest torsional rigidity of any Jaguar at 36 kNm/degree. The 90 kWh lithium-ion battery (with 432 pouch cells) are positioned on the vehicle floor, providing up to 480 km (WLTP cycle) of range.

As you’d expect, rapid charging is present on the I-Pace, following the Combined Charging System standard and with a Type 2 connector. It takes just 40 minutes to charge from 0-80%, while 15 minutes plugged in is enough for 100 km of range. If you’re not in a rush, home charging with a 7 kW AC wallbox will achieve the same state of charge in about ten hours – ideal for overnight charging.

The batteries supply power to two electric motors, one for each axle to provide the vehicle with all-wheel drive. With a total system output of 400 PS and 696 Nm, the I-Pace will get to 100 km/h from a rest in just 4.8 seconds.

Jaguar says the packaging of the I-Pace’s electric powertrain enables for a perfect 50:50 weight distribution and low centre of gravity. Other handling-related bits include a double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension with optional air suspension as well as a configurable Adaptive Dynamics system.

Design-wise, it’s certainly a challenge to tell the production car apart from the concept, seeing how they are very similar at first glance. Tweaks to the front bumper, a reshaped sunroof, revised taillights and a new rear diffuser are just some of the differentiating elements. The British carmaker says the sleek, coupe-like silhouette is inspired by the C-X75 with a short, low bonnet, aero-focused roof design and curved rear screen.

The feature-packed shape isn’t just to attract eyeballs, but helps contribute to a drag coefficient of 0.29 Cd. Furthermore, active vanes in the front grille open when cooling is required, and remains close when not needed to send air through the bonnet scoop to smoothen airflow.

On the inside, the I-Pace is again, almost identical to the concept, save for the addition of things such as air vents and revisions to the switchgear. Jaguar’s Touch Pro Duo infotainment system is present too, and can be interfaced with using a combination of touchscreens, capacitive sensors and tactile physical controls.

Other features include an EV navigation system calculates personalised range based on previous journeys, artificial intelligence to identify individual driver preferences and Amazon Alexa Skill. The I-Pace also comes with a heads-up display, semi-autonomous driving features (adaptive cruise control), Activity Key, Remote Pack and supports over-the-air software updates.

Jaguar says the I-Pace offers interior space comparable to larger SUVs, largely thanks to its cab forward design and powertrain layout. Within its 2,990 mm wheelbase (4,682 mm overall length), passengers in the rear will get to enjoy 890 mm of legroom and 968 mm of head room. Those at the front will have 1,013 mm of headroom and 1,040 mm of legroom instead.

There’s also plenty of practicality to be had, with a 10.5-litre central storage compartment in the rear along with stowage space for tablets and laptops under the rear seats. Boot space is listed at 656 litres – and 1,453 litres with the rear seats folded flat.

The I-Pace will make its public debut at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, but is already on sale in the United Kingdom. Prices start from 63,495 British pounds, and buyers will get to choose from four variants – S, SE, HSE and First Edition – with the last one being offered in limited numbers.

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