This 1971 Jaguar XKE was powered by a V-12 coupled with an automatic transmission. Qualified as the “most beautiful car in the world” by Enzo Ferrari himself, the E-type series is considered to be one of the best sports cars in the world. 

Thomas bought the car in Palm Desert, California, and tried to drive it back to Albuquerque, New Mexico. He made it as far as Las Vegas where the transmission failed requiring to load it on a trailer. He pulled the V-12 and automatic transmission, and the plan was to replace them with a Corvette LT-4 and a 4L60e Chevy  transmission. But after he experienced the Tesla Model 3 and the new Model S, he decided the Jaguar needed that same kind of power after all. Owning these two Teslas convinced him that electric was the way to go. 

With a curbweight of 3,450Lbs. , the XKE achieved a top speed of 150 mph and  0 to 60 in under 7 seconds. The curb weight on the car includes the v-12 engine and automatic transmission, both of which have been removed and disposed of.  Originally, the small block V12 weighted 680 lbs. and produced 314 horsepower. The Jaguar is equipped with disc brakes, rack-and-pinion steering, and independent front and rear suspension. It also has power steering and AC. 

Thomas has a shop along with 40 years of experience. He will handle any upgrade necessary for the brakes, suspension, transmission or body work. The car body has already been stripped, straightened and painted. The hood (bonnet as the British call it) is not shown in pictures; it is covered in a foam protective layer and sealed from the weather. According to Thomas, the car is in excellent condition, with no rust, new paint job and body straight. He has a complete OE leather interior replacement kit for the vehicle, which includes the side panels, rear panels, etc. 

Now, Thomas needs the perfect EV setup for such a unique car. 

He is looking for a Tesla model 3 motor with inverter, suspension, and Tesla cross-member that he believes will fit under the car, battery setup and support. He wants the electric version of his Jaguar to be more powerful than it was, with 250-300 Lb-ft of torque and a top speed of 100mph. Finally, he wants the tachometer and gauges for fuel level, coolant temperature, and oil pressure to be removed and replaced by EV gauges. A Tesla-like display would be appropriate.

Thomas has a level 2 charger at home but also wants to charge the Jaguar in one hour at fast public chargers. He is expecting 200 miles of range, “I have no problem with less range as long as I can add to it later if I choose to do so”. He will use it daily for city rides.

Thomas will do everything himself and wants to use as many used EV parts as possible. He wants to build it fast, in three months: “I am ready to move on this conversion now. The vehicle is gutted and ready to go.”