Announced at the Engine Expo + The Powertrain Technology Show in Stuttgart, the panel of 70 expert motoring journalists from 31 countries took into account key characteristics including performance, driveability, energy efficiency and refinement.
These three titles recognise the technical excellence of the I-PACE’s zero emissions powertrain, which was designed and developed in-house.
We set out to make the world’s best all-electric performance SUV: these awards reflect that, and are fitting recognition for what the engineering team has achieved.”
I-PACE’s 90kWh lithium-ion battery enables a range of up to 292 miles (WLTP). It’s capable of charging from 0-80% in just 40 minutes using a 100kW DC charger, or in just over ten hours when using a 7kW AC wallbox – ideal for overnight charging at home.
A suite of smart, range-optimising technologies includes a battery pre-conditioning system: when plugged in the I-PACE will automatically raise (or lower) the temperature of its battery to maximise range ahead of driving away. A heat pump can scavenge energy from the outside air – even in sub-zero conditions – to reduce the amount of battery energy used by the climate control system. It can even utilise heat generated by the propulsion system to warm up the cabin, further reducing demand on the battery.
The battery is placed centrally between the two axles, and as low down as possible. This location enables perfect 50:50 weight distribution and a low centre of gravity: together with the advanced double wishbone front and Integral Link rear suspension this is fundamental to the I-PACE’s agile handling and outstanding ride comfort.
The permanent magnet motors are hollow, with the driveshafts passing through the centre. As well as being light – together with the transmission they weigh just 78kg – they’re also exceptionally compact. This contributes to the I-PACE’s spacious cabin, 656-litre luggage compartment volume and SUV ground clearance.
Integrating the motors into the front and rear axles delivers all-wheel drive for outstanding traction and control in all conditions. They also enable high levels of regenerative braking – up to 0.4G. This maximises range, and also enables intuitive ‘single pedal’ driving in many conditions.
I-PACE has received 66 global awards since it was revealed little more than a year ago, including 2019 World Car of the Year, World Car Design of the Year, World Green Car, European Car of the Year, and German, Norwegian and UK Car of the Year.
The Jaguar I-PACE is available to order now, priced from £60,995 in the UK1, and can be configured at www.jaguar.com.
1 On-the-road price; includes £3,500 UK Government plug-in vehicle grant
