#Jaguar I-PACE Concept Set For Production In 2018 [Auto Styling News]

Jaguar has been known for over 80 years as a maker of sports cars, but they're hoping that with the introduction of the 2018 I-PACE, they will be taking a big, bold step into the future as an electric vehicle manufacturer.

The I-PACE Concept is a technologically advanced, five-seater sports car. And it's actually slated for production for the 2018 model year. It’s as daringly designed and innovative as the cars that put Jaguar on the map, with technology that enhances our customers’ lives. It sets a template for others to follow, just as we have always done.

Transportation will change more in the next decade than it has in the past 50 years, and the I-PACE proves that they're ready.

Based on the same architecture as the new F-Pace premium SUV, incorporates new technology to create an electric performance package that, according to Jaguar, accelerates to 60 mph in just 4 seconds with the power of a 90-kWh battery that has an estimated range of 220 miles (EPAe) before recharging, which can be done at public charging stations in less than two hours, claims the company.

Yes, it's a performance car, a family car and an all-wheel-drive SUV all in one. Its "groundbreaking design, true Jaguar performance and competitive range and charging times will make it the first real electric alternative to a traditional premium SUV," crows Jag.

The design of the sheet metal is just as stunning as the design of the electric motors. The vehicle occupies less road space than conventional mid-size SUVs yet offers more room for passengers and luggage than models in the segment above. And optimized aerodynamics deliver a low drag coefficient of just 0.29 and inspired new design features that embody the vehicle’s power and performance.

The exterior in some ways is similar to other SUVs, but in others, a radical departure. Like the "hard edge" direction of Cadillac and of recent Lexus models, there are a lot of angles to take in at first glance.

But the effect isn't jarring, but is rather stirring. The large front fender haunches, the flat rear and he lower door creases all have a unifying effect, despite their novelty. The large intake chutes and cats-eye headlamps could be from any luxury car, but the now-familiar Jaguar corporate grille assures us that this is, indeed, a Jag. The shortened hood itself is stunning, as well, and that, along with the stubby rear-end, give it a smart and aggressive look.

More branding occurs in the rear, with a leaping Jaguar and Jag-style lamps that assure us what brand this really is. But some may see the rear as too generic, resembling a Japanese car if one squints.

That said, it's hard to view this car from almost any angle and not see that it will be a success, even apart from the revolutionary tech that runs it, which will also give the Tesla cars runs for their money. And if this thing is even close to being reasonably priced, it could be a smash hit.

[Photos: Jaguar.com]