From Gas to Electric: The Jaguar E-Type’s Eco-Friendly Transformation

This 1966 Jaguar E-Type Goes Electric

With “E” already in its name, the Jaguar E-Type seems like a natural candidate for an electric vehicle (EV) conversion. This iconic roadster, produced by Jaguar Cars from 1961 to 1974, has long been revered by car enthusiasts and celebrities alike. Now, as the demand for eco-friendly alternatives grows, classic car aficionados are finding new ways to modernize their beloved vehicles without compromising the soul of the original design.

Preserving History, Embracing the Future

A common concern among classic car lovers is that converting a vintage vehicle to electric power “ruins” or even “desecrates” the original. But, as those who have completed EV conversions know, the truth often lies in the opposite. In many cases, the transformation actually improves the car’s performance. Increased power, improved reliability, reduced maintenance, and even extended range are just a few benefits that come with swapping a gas-powered engine for electric.

Dan, the owner of this beautifully preserved 1966 Jaguar E-Type, shared similar reservations at first. He wanted to keep the vehicle’s timeless charm intact. Luckily, he found the perfect solution: Electrogenic’s non-invasive conversion kit. This kit allowed Dan to maintain the original aesthetic and driving experience while gaining the benefits of a 21st-century electric drivetrain.

The Electrogenic Approach

Electrogenic, based in Oxford, United Kingdom, is renowned for its ability to convert classic cars into clean, green machines. Their site proudly states: “We create clean, green, classic vehicles with all the benefits of the 21st Century. And we put a smile on your face that is hard to wipe off.” Their tagline, “Keeping it Classic,” has a bit of Ron Burgundy charm. Currently, their EV conversion kits are available for iconic models like the DeLorean, Land Rover Defender HV, Porsche 911, Series Land Rover, classic Minis, and of course, the Jaguar E-Type.

The clean lines of the Electrogenic motor and battery pack fit seamlessly into the E-Type, preserving its iconic look.

In addition to their consumer offerings, Electrogenic has partnered with the British Army on “Project Lurcher,” an initiative that tests electric Land Rovers in battlefield conditions. This program is designed to explore the viability of EVs in rugged, real-world scenarios, further highlighting Electrogenic’s forward-thinking approach to electric conversions.

Dan discovered the company online and was immediately drawn to their approach. “It was important for me that the car wasn’t modified at all,” Dan explains. “I had followed a few converters over the years but really wanted something reversible, just in case. When Electrogenic partnered with a U.S.-based installer, I knew it was the right time.”

The Build: A Global Collaboration

Dan then purchased the Jaguar in 2023 with the intention of converting it into an EV. The car, from his birth year, was in such pristine condition that no restoration was needed. The clean lines of the Electrogenic motor and battery pack fit seamlessly into the E-Type, preserving its iconic look. “It looks like it was always meant to be in the car,” Dan says.

“The process was made incredibly simple by both Electrogenic and Shinoo’s team at InoKinetic,” says Dan, reflecting on his recent Jaguar E-Type EV conversion. InoKinetic, located in Temecula, California , is part of Electrogenic’s Partner-Installer Network, which spans across the U.S., Europe, and Australia.

I love both ICE and EVs, but for the Jaguar, it’s all about cruising. The smooth acceleration and one-pedal driving make it a joy to drive.

According to Dan, the most challenging part of the process was simply the waiting. “The only real hurdle was adapting the fast-charging system for U.S. standards. This was the first Jaguar conversion they’d done in the States, and our power grid is a little different from the UK.”

InoKinetic and Electrogenic worked together to overcome these challenges. The end result? A stunning Jaguar E-Type that runs on electricity without losing any of its original charm. The entire conversion, once all the parts were ready, took just 10 days—an absolutely impressive feat for such a complex build.

Driving the Future

Dan couldn’t be happier with the result. “The car is so much more enjoyable to drive as an EV,” he says. “I love both internal combustion engines (ICE) and EVs, but for the Jaguar, it’s all about cruising. The smooth acceleration and one-pedal driving make it a joy to drive.”

The E-Type now spends its summer days at Dan’s property in Coronado, California , but once the Arizona heat cools down, he plans to enjoy it even more in Scottsdale. And this won’t be his last EV project—Dan’s next build? A 1965 ISO Rivolta, which he’s transforming into an electric “ReVolt Rivolta rocket ship” with the help of Current Electric Vehicles.

I had followed a few converters over the years but really wanted something reversible, just in case. When Electrogenic partnered with a U.S.-based installer, I knew it was the right time.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this conversion is the speed at which it was completed. While the U.S.-based conversion took just over 1 week, Electrogenic can complete similar builds in their UK facility in as little as 48 hours . For anyone considering the leap into the EV world with a classic car, that’s certainly food for thought. Dan’s story shows that with the right partners and a clear vision, it’s possible to keep the spirit of a classic alive—while driving it into the future.

Specs

1966 Jaguar XKE convertible Series 1

Location: Scottsdale, AZ
Overall Vehicle Weight:  Approx 2,600
Amount of Time to Build: 10 Days
Cost to Build: 75k
Owner:  Not disclosed
Built by: Electrogenic at InoKinetic
Occupation:  Real Estate Developer and Coffee Company

MOTOR/ DRIVETRAIN

Motor swap performed by: InoKentic
Motor Drive Unit year, Make, Model: Electrogenic E43
Horsepower: 275
Torque: 620Nm
mounts: Original engine mounts
Control Software: Electrogenic
Batteries: 120kW

CHASSIS/ SUSPENSION

Installation Shop: All original restored

WHEELS, TIRES & BRAKES

Wheels (Brand, Size, Width front & rear): Stock

BODY/PAINT

Paint Shop: Apex Customs, Tempe, AZ
Color: Blue Silver Opalescent
Headlights:  Original
Taillights:  Original
Any other aftermarket parts? None

INTERIOR

Mostly stock or restored to stock
Install Shop:  All under prior ownership circa 2015