FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW: Jaguar I-PACE to power the grid

Jaguar has announced a 10-event global race series to showcase its new electric SUV, the I-PACE and capitalise on the iconic brand's involvement in Formula E.

So far, the cities already locked in for the Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY series include Hong Kong, Paris, Rome, New York and Sao Paolo, and the series will be a support event for Formula E, launching at the end of next year. Never before has there been a race series for production electric vehicles, the company claims.

The initiative is a sign of Jaguar's commitment to electrification of its production models, all of which will migrate to either plug-in or full battery/electric capability by 2020. That is a pre-emptive move in light of the UK government's recent announcement that it will ban the sale of conventional petrol or diesel cars with effect from 2040.

“Jaguar returned to racing in 2016 with the mission ‘Race to Innovate’," says Gerd Mäuser, Chairman of Jaguar Racing.

"With the launch of the Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY we have strengthened our commitment to battery electric vehicles, international motorsport and Formula E. As a British team, we are proud to announce today the launch of the world’s first production battery electric vehicle championship.”

“We’ve always said we want to prove our electrification technologies on the track – this is the proof. I am looking forward to seeing a full grid of Jaguar I-PACE racecars in late 2018, soon after the first Jaguar I-PACE hits the road in Europe. Ultimately this innovative series will enhance the technology in our future electric vehicles and benefit our customers.

“Formula E has grown exponentially since we joined as the first premium manufacturer last year, with commitments from Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche. The Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY will improve the spectacle for the fans and gives young drivers a ladder into Formula E. We expect our series to be a sell-out and an exciting international sporting event.”

Jaguar intends for the race series fields to be limited to 20 cars, all prepared by Jaguar Land Rover's Special Vehicle Operations division. Each driver competing will be able to call on Jaguar's 'Arrive and Drive' package, which includes entry, technical support, spare parts/equipment, tyres, other consumables, garaging, marketing/promotions and television coverage, hospitality and racewear.

For the moment, the official calendar for the series is awaiting FIA approval.