Presentation of the New Color
Exactly one year ago, Jaguar unveiled the wild Type 00 concept, which offered the first glimpse of its all-electric future and a bid to compete with Bentley and Rolls-Royce.
While development of the production version continues, a concept example in a matte red color was spotted on the streets of London. This appearance coincides with the brand’s 90th anniversary and coincided with the unexpected departure of its long-serving design chief, the figure behind the brand’s polarizing rebranding.
The Type 00 was initially shown in Miami Pink and London Blue colors during the official launch. Earlier this year, the model was presented in French Ultramarine livery and unexpectedly appeared during Paris Fashion Week.
The company has now unveiled a fourth color option – matte-finished London Red – as the concept arrived in the UK capital. The new shade is inspired by the red-brick Victorian architecture of Kensington, one of London’s most recognizable districts.
Historical Comparison
The freshly repainted concept was photographed next to a classic 1935 Jaguar SS outside the Chancery Rosewood hotel.
For those wondering, there have been no other changes to the concept’s exterior. It still rides on the same 23-inch alloy wheels, and the minimalist interior remains upholstered in white and gray leather with accent lighting.
Photos published by Jaguar UK director Santino Pietrosanti show the Type 00 parked alongside exotic company, including a Bugatti Chiron, Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge, Ferrari F8 Tributo, and Lamborghini Aventador SVJ.
Reaction to the Rebranding
The brand’s rebranding has met with a mixed reaction. Its advertising campaign, oddly enough, did not feature cars at all, which confused many. It was also quite strange that the Type 00 was initially shown in a bright pink color, which did not win the car any fans.
Nevertheless, under the gray winter London light, the matte red paint gives the concept a sense of gravitas. In the open, it naturally attracts attention, though for a concept car that’s not so surprising. Much like the Tesla Cybertruck, its unconventional shape so thoroughly defies expectations that people can’t decide whether they are fascinated by it or despise it. There seems to be little middle ground here.
The Future Production Car
Recent prototypes of the future production model suggest it will retain the concept’s radical shape. However, the road car will come to market with a four-door body and a longer wheelbase, built on Jaguar’s new electric architecture.
According to recent reports, the electric car is expected to have a range of up to 430 miles (692 km) and support fast charging, adding 200 miles (322 km) of range in just 15 minutes.
Only time will tell whether those who typically buy Bentley or Rolls-Royce will be willing to spend their money on a vehicle that looks so controversial.
Departure of the Design Chief
In separate news, it has been confirmed that Jaguar Land Rover’s design chief, Gerry McGovern, has left the brand. No official reason has been given for this high-profile departure, but it came shortly after former Tata CFO PB Balaji was appointed as the new CEO of JLR.
Citing sources close to the company, Autocar India reports that McGovern was “escorted from the office” on Monday, and his contract was terminated immediately. The person behind the Jaguar reboot spent over two decades at JLR, being responsible for successful models including the new Land Rover Defender.
According to University of Birmingham business economics professor David Bailey, McGovern’s departure marks a “symbolic end of an era.” He said it could also be a sign that Tata wants to gain greater control over the British company.
The future direction of Jaguar’s design department remains an open question. The departure of such an iconic figure as McGovern will undoubtedly impact the creative process, especially at such a pivotal moment as the brand attempts to radically redefine itself in the premium EV market. The success or failure of the future four-door electric car will now be closely tied to the decisions of the new team, which will have to balance the bold vision of the Type 00 concept with the practical expectations of luxury buyers.