Jaguar Charges Up Classic E-Type

Following the popularity of last year’s E-Type Zero electric concept car, Jaguar Land Rover Ltd. plans to beginning selling similarly retrofitted all-electric versions of its classic E-Type roadster in mid-2020.

Customers can buy the vehicles directly from JLR’s classic car unit or have their own E-Types electrified by the carmaker. The company says the process also can be reversed if owners want their piston engine back later.

The concept E-Type Zero, which was famously used this spring to transport England’s Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on their wedding day, is powered by a 295-hp electric motor and a 40-kWh lithium-ion battery. A single-speed reduction gear and new propshaft sends power to a carry-over differential and final drive.

Jaguar says the conversion trims 100 lbs from the piston-powered E-Type, while maintaining the car's weight distribution. The EV has a driving range of 170 miles and takes about six hours to be fully recharged.

Buyers can add options such as a digital instrument cluster, touch screen infotainment system and LED headlights. Pricing will be announced later.

A second electric E-Type concept is being shown this weekend at the Monterey Car Week in California.