Jaguar Type 01 EV Conquers Goodwood Hillclimb: The 986 HP Silent Revolution
Jaguar’s bold leap into the electric era took center stage at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where the camouflaged Type 01 EV showcased its raw power in near silence. This grand tourer, boasting 986 horsepower, effortlessly tackled the famous hillclimb, leaving traditional engine roars in its dust and earning playful jabs as a ‘swift refrigerator’ from enthusiasts.
From Classic Elegance to Electric Revolution
Once synonymous with refined British luxury, Jaguar evoked images of the stately XJ sedans from the late ’90s, complete with smooth V8 power, chrome accents, and timeless curves. Fast forward to today, and the brand has executed a dramatic pivot amid slumping sales. Ditching heritage cues like the iconic leaping cat badge, Jaguar launched the provocative ‘Copy Nothing’ campaign, featuring vibrant visuals without a single vehicle in sight. This shook the auto world, spotlighting a fresh identity focused on ultra-premium EVs.
The Type 01, first teased as the Type 00 concept in Miami, made its dynamic UK debut at Goodwood wrapped in swirling ‘Blue Exuberant Modernism Camouflage.’ It’s the third public outing for this machine, following static reveals in glamorous locales.
Silent Speed at Goodwood
Picture this: amid the symphony of roaring supercars, the Type 01 surges from the start line with just a whisper from its tires. It navigates the 1.16-mile Goodwood course—packed with tight turns and steep inclines—at blistering pace, all without a traditional engine note. Spectators heard only crowd cheers and rubber on tarmac, highlighting the serene dominance of electric propulsion.
This performance underscores Jaguar’s engineering prowess, proving EVs can thrill without noise pollution.
Cutting-Edge Powertrain
At its core, the Type 01 rides on Jaguar’s bespoke Electric Architecture (JEA), a high-voltage 800V system paired with a silicon carbide (SiC) inverter. Here’s why that matters:
- Efficiency Boost: SiC tech slashes energy losses, shrinks component sizes, and cuts cooling needs—translating to longer range and faster charging.
- Triple Motor Setup: One up front, two in back for all-wheel drive that mimics rear-wheel bias for that classic Jaguar feel.
- Brutal Stats: 986 hp and 959 lb-ft of torque propel it from 0-60 mph in under 3 seconds.
- Battery and Range: A house-built 120 kWh pack supports 350 kW DC charging and up to 430 miles of range—ideal for cross-country hauls.
For buyers, this means supercar acceleration with everyday usability, like plugging in at home and forgetting range anxiety on highways.
Practical Tip: Maximize EV Ownership
Opt for home Level 2 chargers to hit 80% capacity overnight. At public stations, prioritize 350 kW units to add 100+ miles in 10-15 minutes.
Polarizing Design Language
Peel back the camo, and the Type 01 screams minimalism: sleek slits replace the grille, razor-sharp rectangular lights nod to the Type 00, and bulging wheel arches house massive 23-inch rims. A digital camera swaps the rear glass for a panoramic view, while ‘Strikethrough’ graphics hide slim taillights.
It’s angular, boxy, and unapologetically modern—like a futuristic muscle car. Love it or loathe it, Jaguar aimed to spark debate, and it has. Critics decry the loss of elegance, but proponents see bold innovation that stands out in a sea of sameness.
Road to Production
Expect the full, uncamouflaged reveal in New York this October 2026. Production kicks off late that year, with deliveries hitting the UK and US by early 2027. Starting around $130,000, it targets buyers seeking exclusive EV luxury without compromise.
Jaguar’s gamble could redefine premium electrics—or flop spectacularly. Either way, the Type 01 demands attention in the shift to sustainable speed.