LA Show 2016: Jaguar Reveals Electric I-Pace, Ford Shows EcoSport for U.S.

November 15, 2016

Bill Visnic

Jaguar I-Pace Concept previews the production version of the new all-electric crossover coming for 2018.

The 2016 Los Angeles auto show kicked off with Ford confirming longstanding speculation the company will sell a version of its EcoSport subcompact crossover in North America and Jaguar revealing the I-Pace Concept, a stunning battery-electric crossover slated for production.

Jaguar said the I-Pace's 90 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is good for more than 300 miles of driving range.

There’s time to ponder the implications: neither vehicle will be on the road until 2018.

The SES trim level for Ecosport fronts colorful interior detailing.

An all-new vehicle architecture for the I-Pace Concept includes double-wishbone front suspension, all-wheel-drive and a flat floor.

Ford Ecosport crossover gets exterior and interior styling specific to North America, as well as 3-cylinder and 4-cylinder engine choices.

Jaguar said the I-Pace Concept is a “production preview” of the battery-electric I-Pace due to be shown in final production form next year. The company engineered a specific platform for the 5-seat crossover that has 90 kW·h lithium-ion battery and a synchronous permanent-magnet electric motor on each axle for all-wheel-drive propulsion.

The I-Pace Concept, shown with the 90 kW·h battery, has a claimed driving range that exceeds 500 km (311 mi) on the NEDC driving cycle. Jaguar said the twin electric motors generate a total of about 394 hp (294 kW) and 516 lb·ft (700 N·m). Acceleration from 0-60 mph comes in roughly 4 s.

Jaguar said the I-Pace concept is a relatively compact 184.5 in. (4680 mm) long, but the propulsion system allows for maximized interior space.The I-Pace has a double-wishbone front suspension and a multilink rear suspension.

Ford, meanwhile, revealed at an event outside the LA show the North America-specific version of the EcoSport subcompact crossover that already is sold in many other world markets. The EcoSport gets specific exterior and interior styling for North America and will be available with either a turbocharged 1.0-L 3-cylinder or a turbocharged 2.0-L 4-cylinder engine; 2.0-L models a fitted with standard all-wheel-drive. Ford did not provide power figures for either engine or other technical details.

The EcoSport will have many of Ford's latest electronic features, including the Fordpass app to enable remote starting and locking/unlocking and information on operating parameters such as fuel level and odometer reading.