Electrogenic’s electrified E-Type will make its debut in July, showing that the electrification of classic cars is growing.
An Oxford-based firm will electrify the classic Jaguar E-Type ahead of the car’s 60th anniversary this year.
Electrogenic, a company that specialises in converting classic cars to electric power, will fit the E-Type with a choice of three powertrains to cater to different driving experiences and performance levels.
Prices will start at £54,000 (AUD$100,000) for the base Tourer conversion and rise for the mid-range Sprint, each offering a 240km range. Range-extenders that add almost 100km are optional and customers can also opt for the Grand Tourer conversion for 400km on a single charge.
The Tourer conversion offers a maximum speed of 160kph with the car’s original gearbox, but with a lower-than-original kerb weight for improved handling.
The next-level Sprint offers a near-original kerb weight, with torque upped to 470Nm. Electrogenic said it “exceeds the originally quoted E-Type performance figures” and has offered the option of upgraded brakes and suspension.
The top-of-the range Grand Tourer conversion removes the original gearbox and installs an upgraded electric powertrain. It delivers 300kW and 600Nm of torque and has fast-charging capability.
“As with every classic that we convert to run on electric power, the E-Type presented its own unique challenges – the main one being the weight of expectation,” said Ian Newstead, Electrogenic co-founder.
“The E-Type’s reputation is well known in the industry and living up to that is never going to be easy – but this is a wonderfully engaging car to drive. Our first E-Type conversion will be on the stand at the London Classic Car Show and we can’t wait to show it off to the world,” Newstead said.
Jack Warrick