JAGUAR'S SHOCKING NEW CAR!

Jaguar has revealed the i-PACE Concept, an all-electric performance SUV, in an exclusive Virtual Reality VIP reception at MILK Studios in Los Angeles.

Ian Callum, Director of Design, said: “The i-PACE Concept represents the next generation of electric vehicle design. It is a five-seat sports car and a performance SUV in one.

Callum said: “Our virtual reality reveal today has also pushed technology boundaries as well, and captures the hi-tech essence of the concept car".

"We only have one concept car, and it is in LA for the Auto Show. For the first time, VR has allowed us share it across the globe in the most immersive way possible.”

From Virtual Reality hubs in Los Angeles and London, groups of 66 guests including A-list stars, put themselves inside the concept car, interacting live with other participants. Guests ‘sat’ on the concept’s virtual seats, had a 360 degree view of Venice Beach, as the concept was built piece by piece around them, and then saw the Jaguar i-PACE Concept race towards them across a virtual desert.

Dr Wolfgang Ziebart, Technical Design Director, Jaguar Land Rover, said: "i-PACE is an uncompromised electric vehicle designed from a clean sheet of paper. The concept fully exploits the potential EVs offer in space utilization, driving pleasure and performance."

The electric motors and 90kWh lithium-ion battery pack were designed in-house by Jaguar Land Rover. 

For rapid charging, using a public 50kW DC charging network, a full charge takes just over two hours, enough to deliver an estimated 220 miles range.

The i-PACE has electric motors on the front and rear axles and their combined output is 400hp and 516-lb ft. of torque – the same torque rating as the Jaguar F-TYPE SVR.

Ian Callum said: "Electric motors provide immediate response with no lag, no gearshifts and no interruptions. Their superior torque delivery compared to internal combustion engines transforms the driving experience.

“With 516-lb of torque and the traction benefits of all-wheel-drive, the i-PACE Concept accelerates from zero-60mph in around four seconds."

Callum added: “The interior of the i-PACE Concept is finished with beautiful, premium materials and an unwavering attention to detail.

“Throughout the interior you will discover a host of beautiful details to surprise and delight. Every feature bears the hallmark of British craftsmanship.

“And there is digital craftsmanship too, with two touch screens providing information when and where you need it, limiting distraction, and improving the driving experience”.

Jaguar says the i-PACE Concept Vehicle is the start of a new era for Jaguar. The i-PACE will be fully revealed in 2017, and on the road in 2018.

NOTE: Since seeing the concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Paul Gover reports that the concept car was 'reverse-engineered' from the production car - so that's how come we will see the i-PACE on the road in 2018.