The automotive landscape has changed so much over the last five years: Cars now major on things such as connectivity(Facebook,tweeter, you name it)but also alternative propulsion systems. Its no wonder that sometime last month when I sat in a 570s for the first time I felt that it was rather bare and lacking in the technology department compared to lessor(more affordable cars). It seems as though the focus isn’t so much on driving anymore but what an environmentally conscious and technologically connected populace wants.

When Jaguar announced that they would be joining Formula E it was a clear indication of the direction the company would be taking: the electrification of Jaguar. Jaguar admits that commuting will change more in the next decade than it has in the last 50 years. In  light of this it is only befitting that the British Marque be ahead of the curve. Apart from the Tesla model-x the I-Pace will be the only other fully electric SUV on sale when it is launched in 2018.

The first images released by Jaguar reveal the now familiar design cues that grace the rest of their range. In fact, one could wager that the exterior design of the concept will be carried through to the production stage of the car unchanged. The interior will however not make it to production unchanged. While some of the design elements really stand out practicality dictates that they be scrapped for a more conventional set up(The glove compartment for example, see pictures). The future isn’t here yet, or rather won’t be here by 2018.

For propulsion the I-Pace uses two synchronous electric motors integrated into the front and rear axles. Working in tandem the motors have a total output of 400ps and 700 Nm of torque which will give the I-Pace a claimed 0-60mph time of 4.0s. Powering the electric motors is a 90kwh lithium ion battery pack housed in the car’s floor. This is good for a claimed range of over 500km. This translates to roughly a week of motoring for the average commuter. The batteries can be recharged to 80% of their capacity in just 90 min and can be fully charged in 2 hours using 50kw DC charging.

The I-pace uses double wishbone suspension up front and Jaguar’s integral link suspension in the rear. This endows the SUV with unique handling characteristics which blend sportiness and comfort.

The I-Pace is expected to be production ready by 2018.