Jaguar’s Type 00 Revealed in London Amid Design Controversy

URGENT UPDATE: Jaguar’s extravagant Type 00 has made a stunning reappearance in London, just in time to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the first car to bear the Jaguar name, the 1935 SS Jaguar. The striking EV was showcased outside the luxurious Chancery Rosewood hotel, capturing the attention of onlookers and luxury car enthusiasts alike.

The Type 00’s debut comes amidst swirling controversy, as parent company Tata Motors reportedly dismissed design chief Gerry McGovern earlier this week. This move has sparked speculation about the future direction of Jaguar’s design philosophy. Despite the internal upheaval, the Type 00, resprayed in an eye-catching London Red finish, stands out among high-end vehicles, including a Rolls-Royce Cullinan and a Bugatti Chiron, turning the hotel into an impromptu luxury auto show.

Launched just a year ago, the Type 00 signifies Jaguar’s bold pivot toward higher luxury, aiming to compete with brands like Bentley instead of traditional rivals like BMW. Managing director Rawdon Glover has acknowledged that only 15 percent of future buyers will be returning customers, with a staggering 85 percent expected to be new to the Jaguar brand. The new customer base is anticipated to embrace Jaguar’s more expensive, fully electric models, with the Type 00 likely to start at approximately $130,000.

Initially slated for production by the end of this year, the Type 00’s official launch has been postponed to 2026, though deliveries are still expected to commence before the end of 2024. Glover promises that the final version will evoke a “real visceral reaction,” describing it as “a car that has drama.”

As Jaguar shifts focus, it has discontinued all previous models except the F-Pace, which will also be phased out by 2026. This marks the end of combustion engine vehicles for the brand, leaving the Type 00 as its flagship model. Jaguar plans to introduce additional electric models, including an SUV, as part of its new strategy.

With the Type 00 back in the spotlight, the automotive world is abuzz with reactions to its radical design and Jaguar’s future. The controversial marketing tactics and the radical shift to high luxury have ignited discussions about the brand’s identity and appeal. As Jaguar prepares to unveil its next moves, the spotlight remains firmly on the Type 00, a bold statement of its new direction.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as Jaguar redefines its legacy in the luxury automotive market.