Jaguar I-Pace to go racing 12 | 09 | 2017
JAGUAR HAS LAUNCHED a new one-make Formula E support series for its I-Pace in 2018. The Jaguar I-Pace eTROPHY is a world-first championship for a production-based electric car. (Watch our Jaguar I-Pace eTROPHY video)
Announced today at the Frankfurt Motor Show, full details — including technical specification, calendar and price — will not be confirmed until next year. It will though be a 10-round series featuring at all FE events.
The championship, which will be capped at 20 drivers, including a "VIP" entry at each round, will comprise a practice and qualifying session, plus a 30-minute race at each round. (Related: Range Rover confirms plug-in hybrids)
The groundbreaking series will also support the launch of the Jaguar I-Pace. Designed by Scot Ian Callum, the I-Pace is the company’s highly innovative five-seat battery-electric sports car which hits the road in the second half of 2018.
Jaguar Land Rover’s special vehicle operations department will build the racing versions of the all-wheel-drive five-seater sports car, which should begin testing early next year.
Jaguar Racing, which operates the Formula E team, will run the cars. (Related: JLR to electrify model range by 2020)
“Jaguar returned to racing in 2016 with the mission ‘Race to Innovate’,” Gerd Mäuser, chairman, Jaguar Racing, said. “With the launch of the Jaguar I-Pace eTROPHY we have strengthened our commitment to battery electric vehicles, international motorsport and Formula E.
“As a British team, we are proud to announce today the launch of the world’s first production battery electric vehicle championship.” (Related: Jaguar I-Pace hits the streets)
“We’ve always said we want to prove our electrification technologies on the track – this is the proof. I am looking forward to seeing a full grid of Jaguar I-Pace racecars in late 2018, soon after the first Jaguar I-Pace hits the road in Europe. Ultimately this innovative series will enhance the technology in our future electric vehicles and benefit our customers.
“Formula E has grown exponentially since we joined as the first premium manufacturer last year, with commitments from Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche.
“The Jaguar I-Pace eTROPHY will improve the spectacle for the fans and gives young drivers a ladder into Formula E. We expect our series to be a sell-out and an exciting international sporting event.”
Jaguar’s announcement today was welcomed by Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Formula E.
“Jaguar has been a welcome addition to Formula E and a fantastic advocate for electric street racing,” Agag said. “.I’m delighted that in addition to the Panasonic Jaguar Racing team competing on the Formula E grid, we will be adding to our race day schedule with a competitive new support series for season five.
“The Jaguar I-Pace eTROPHY will bring more entertainment for fans in-between sessions and will be a further testament to the advances in battery technology and exciting electric performance.
“I hope Jaguar will allow me to bring my race suit and helmet... and maybe get behind the wheel myself!"
Related: Scots unveil for Range Rover Velar
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Jim McGill