Jaguar’s classic E-type sports car is set to make a comeback with a new electric version approved to go into production.
The E-type Zero, notably driven by Prince Harry as he whisked Meghan Markle away to their wedding reception earlier this year, will be available to buy from summer 2020.
Carmaker Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) announced that Jaguar Classic – a unit of the British-based firm which restores vintage models – will convert E-types to electric power at its Classic Works facility in Coventry.
Details on how much the revamped car could cost remains tightly under wraps for now.
However, the car company, which is owned by India’s Tata Motors Ltd, has said those who already have an E-type will be offered the reversible option of converting their vehicles to electric power.
JLR Classic director Tim Hannig said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the positive reaction to the Jaguar E-type Zero concept. Future-proofing the enjoyment of classic car ownership is a major stepping stone for Jaguar Classic.
“E-type Zero showcases the incredible heritage of the E-type, and the expertise and craftsmanship at Classic Works, while demonstrating Jaguar Land Rover’s dedication to creating zero emission vehicles across every part of the business, including Jaguar Classic.”
The latest version of the E-Type Zero, which has faster acceleration than the original Series 1 E-type, will be shown off at Monterey Car Week in California on Friday.
The concept version of the car has a 40kWh battery, which can be recharged in six to seven hours.
JLR is already in the process of building another electric vehicle – the I-PACE – in Austria.