Jaguar Land Rover's Electric Era: Innovations and Changes Ahead

WAIT&SEE - Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), the renowned British automotive company, is preparing to replace its XJ EV model with a trio of impressive electric vehicles (EVs). As reported by Autocar, JLR is gearing up to launch a large electric limousine, among other exciting developments, marking a significant step towards embracing electric mobility.

Jaguar's new limousine will be a de-facto XJ replacement but larger and more luxurious. (Picture from: Autocar)

JLR, known for its iconic vehicles, is preparing to make a bold move in the world of electric mobility. The XJ EV model, a familiar presence in the brand's lineup, is about to be succeeded by an impressive large electric limousine. This transition comes alongside the anticipation of a new four-seater grand tourer from Jaguar, slated for a 2025 debut, and a pair of opulent luxury crossovers.

Autocar's reports, citing sources familiar with the upcoming models, reveal exciting prospects. While one of the forthcoming vehicles aligns with the dimensions of a flagship SUV, akin to the Bentley Bentayga, the other promises to be an opulent luxury limousine, taking inspiration from the elegance of a Bentley Bentayga. The revamped XJ, meanwhile, is set to surpass its predecessor in both size and luxury, promising a new level of grandeur.

Adrian Mardell envisions future JLR dealers focused on a particular brand. (Picture from: Autocar)

What underpins these forthcoming vehicles is the long-wheelbase JEA vehicle platform, a dedicated architecture designed exclusively for Jaguar's next generation of models. Speaking to Autocar, JLR's CEO, Adrian Mardell, highlighted the importance of this bespoke platform. He noted, "Otherwise, the branding wouldn't look as robust and exuberant as you'd hope. This wheelbase and architecture will deliver on the design intent."

Its new SUV promises to offer space and opulence on a par with the Bentley Bentayga. (Picture from: Autocar)

With prices ranging between £100,000 and £125,000, these electric marvels will offer much more than just eco-friendliness. Expect cutting-edge features such as four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, and ultra-fast charging capabilities. This technology allows for a rapid 10% to 80% charge in a mere 13 minutes, making electric vehicle ownership both convenient and efficient.

Under the hood, these electric powerhouses will generate no less than 450 bhp, propelling them from 0 to 62 mph in a swift 3.0 to 3.8 seconds. The top speed of 155 mph underscores their performance prowess. Furthermore, their impressive range will span at least 385 miles, with some models pushing the boundaries to reach up to 475 miles on a single charge.

New minimalist interiors will centre on touchscreens and use sustainable materials. (Picture from: Autocar)

The road to this exciting electric lineup has been marked by evolution and progress. Former JLR CEO Thierry Bolloré initiated the Reimagine plan, which included the development of an electric XJ model based on the MLA Range Rover platform, initially scheduled for a 2022 launch. However, the project was shelved due to its misalignment with Jaguar's broader vision. As a result, details about the car, including its performance potential, remained undisclosed until the program was terminated in 2021.

However, it appears that its successor has made significant strides in battery technology, motor development, and charging infrastructure. This ensures that the forthcoming electric sedan will not only be a technological marvel upon launch but will also maintain its position at the forefront of electric drivetrain technology.

The ‘old’ XJ replacement was close to being production-ready before being canned. (Picture from: Autocar)

Autocar sources have revealed a symbolic change in the brand's identity. The sedans and their upcoming counterparts will no longer bear the iconic jumping cat emblem that has graced the manufacturer's portfolio. Instead, only the brand name, presented in a fresh new font, will adorn the front and back of these vehicles. This change symbolizes the bold approach of the company's leadership to reinvent the brand for a new era.

The new Jaguar XJ was showcased alongside an older XJ model, illustrating that every Jaguar car model is always unique and different.. (Picture from: Autocar)

By 2025, as a new generation of models enters the market, all current Jaguar vehicles, including the fully electric i-Pace, will be phased out. Gerry McGovern, the brand's chief creative officer, emphasizes the necessity of this change, ensuring that the replacement vehicles will sport a completely different appearance. He remarked, "As we launched our new JEA platform, the changes that happened to Jaguar today were dramatic. We don't want a car that looks older and a car that looks newer."

It was spotted testing just months before it was due to go on sale. (Picture from: Autocar)

When it comes to design, the upcoming XJ, positioned to compete with the BMW i7, will embrace a fresh, minimalist aesthetic, departing from the design cues of its predecessors. This aesthetic will extend to both the interior and exterior, offering a contemporary and streamlined appearance. Notably, none of the three upcoming Jaguar EVs will feature a traditional rear window, a choice reminiscent of the Polestar 5. Instead, they will rely on a video camera system, providing a direct view to the driver through a digital mirror positioned at the base of the windshield.

The eagerly awaited four-door GT is expected to make its debut late next year before hitting the market in 2025. However, details regarding the unveiling dates of the SUV and XJ successor remain undisclosed. It's worth noting that the previous-generation Jaguar XJ, launched in 2010, was retired in 2019 without a direct replacement model.

As Jaguar Land Rover forges ahead into the electric future, these upcoming vehicles promise to captivate automotive enthusiasts with their innovation, luxury, and performance, setting a new standard for what electric vehicles can achieve. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOCAR | IDMOTOR1 ]

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