Turn your memory back about two years, and you’ll remember how the Stuff team raved about the Jaguar I-Pace electric SUV that made its way to South Africa. We’re not exactly spoiled for choice when it comes to EV options in South Africa. But luckily, the high-end car makers will never disappoint.
Now, Jaguar has announced that its updated I-Pace will officially launch in South Africa in three trim options. It’s bringing in the base Jaguar I-Pace EV400 S that’s priced at R1,942,600. Step it up a notch, and you’ve got the I-PACE EV400 SE that breaks the 2-mil mark at R2,005,100, while at the higher end you’ll find the I-PACE EV400 HSE priced at R2,112,300.
They’re coming in slightly more expensive than its previous generation, but that’s thanks to some noticeable upgrades… and inflation.
I-Pace stepped up
This time, the EVs come with a fully upgraded infotainment system, three-phase AC home charging functionality and updated tech designed to help the driver manoeuvre pretty much any terrain.
Its updated Pivi Pro infotainment system is, according to the press release “… as quick and easy to use as your smartphone.” Like with most tech-related claims, we’d like to test this ourselves. One thing’s for sure, Jag’s previous EV was fitted with the great Touch Pro Duo double-screen – the same one found in previous Range Rovers like the Velar.
But how far can it go on a charge? This is, arguably, the most important question for prospective EV owners, because what use is it if your Samsung Galaxy lasts a day and a half but your car is flat in a Hyde Park shopping centre. Imagine the parking ticket cost alone. Similar to its predecessor, the I-Pace can travel up to 470km on its 90kWh battery. But this time, you’ll be able to charge it at home (if you’re lucky enough to be on three-phase) with an 11kW (AC) domestic wall box. This useful addition will add a generous 53km range in an hour.
Jag’s also going all-in on driver safety and comfort tech, including the addition of its 3D surround camera and ClearSight rear-view digital mirror. It’s also quite aware of our current public health situation, with a special note about its brand new cabin air ionisation tech that’s fitted with something called PM2.5 filtration. This stuff will ‘capture’ ultrafine particles and allergens, according to the presser. Probably still a good idea to wear a mask though.
What’s a brand new car without a nice, long warranty anyway? Jag offers an 8 year or 160,000km battery warranty in addition to its base 5 year or 100,000km Jaguar Care plan. It’ll also like to make sure you can actually drive your newly bought machine and will give all approved Pre-Owned Jaguar customers a complimentary driver training course.
