Jaguar on Track for Motorsport Return in 2016
Jaguar are about to return to the racetrack, with a new team in the Formula E race series. Jaguar is planning on developing their own electric road cars whilst racing, with many expecting the first reveal as early as the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. Jaguar has had a rather rocky relationship with motorsport in the past, with the highs of the mid 1950’s at Le Mans to incredible lows of their Formula 1 outing.
One of the First Manufacturers to Compete
Jaguar join a very competitive field with Audi, Renault and Mahindra all competing in the series. Jaguar are yet to announce their drivers but have appointed James Barclay as team director “We are proud to be one of the first vehicle manufacturers to commit to a series with our own team. We look forward to welcoming a whole new generation of Jaguar fans.” Jaguar’s new electric drivetrain is expected to be fitted to many of its cars including the XE, XF, XJ and the F-Pace. Although it’s unlikely to be fitted to the F-Type so don’t expect a new electric sports car.
Take Their Experience From the Track and Bring it to the Road
Jaguar’s first electric car is thought to be an electric crossover vehicle and is expected to try and take on Tesla’s own Model X. There are also rumours that the car will cost around £60,000 and will have a range of 300 miles, beating Tesla’s current record of 270 miles.
Lets Just Not Mention the Stint in F1
Jaguar’s first outing into motorsport since the really rather tragic attempt at Formula 1 will have the worlds eyes on it, and with a growing series like Formula E it could spell a great new beginning for the company’s sporting triumphs it may take a few years to see it but the futures looking bright for Jaguar.
Sources: Formula E Autoguide GT Spirit
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