In a significant development leading up to its ambitious transition to an all-electric brand by 2025, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has announced the impending discontinuation of the Jaguar I-Pace electric crossover. The move, confirmed by JLR CEO Adrian Mardell to Autocar, contrasts with previous indications that the I-Pace would receive ongoing enhancements and potentially even a second-generation model alongside the automaker’s upcoming electric offerings.
Jaguar’s decision to phase out the I-Pace comes as part of its strategic realignment towards a comprehensive electric lineup. While the specific discontinuation date remains undisclosed, it is contingent upon the fine-tuning of Jaguar’s launch schedule for its upcoming generation of electric vehicles (EVs), expected to debut in late 2024 with a subsequent market launch in 2025. These next-gen EVs will be crafted using JLR’s bespoke JEA electric architecture, reflecting the brand’s commitment to innovation in the electric mobility landscape.
Mardell emphasized the importance of maintaining a seamless transition for customers, stating, “Right now, people are telling me it’s going to be in the first half of 2025. That’s just under two years away. I’d be more confident in that response when we’re nine to 12 months away.” This timeframe provides Jaguar with an opportunity to meticulously navigate the intricate decisions associated with this transition.
The I-Pace, which has primarily found favor in the UK and mainland Europe, has played a pivotal role in aiding JLR’s understanding of battery-electric vehicle development. Its discontinuation signifies Jaguar’s commitment to refining its offerings to align with the evolving landscape of emission targets and sustainable transportation.
As Jaguar sets its sights on the future, Mardell envisions a robust all-electric lineup, targeting a production volume of 4,000 cars per month. This projection contrasts with the combined sales of internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicles, which slightly exceeded 5,000 units per month in the first quarter of 2023.
Discussing the distinctive attributes of Jaguar’s upcoming EVs, Mardell highlighted their “exuberant” proportions and extended wheelbases. These features necessitate the development of a dedicated platform, the JEA architecture, tailored to accommodate the brand’s artistic design vision. This approach diverges from JLR’s modular MLA platform, set to underpin forthcoming electric models, including the electric Range Rover scheduled for release in 2024.
In light of these transformative steps, Mardell expressed his enthusiasm for the forthcoming EV lineup’s design language, characterizing it as “gorgeous” and reflective of the brand’s commitment to pioneering automotive aesthetics.
