Jaguar's controversial new car spotted in rare public appearance

Jaguar's controversial new electric car has been spotted being tested a year ahead of its expected launch date. The new Type 00 was seen undergoing a rigorous testing programme at the iconic Nürburgring Nordschleife.

The Type 00 is controversial because it is a radical departure from the type of vehicles that first made Jaguar famous. The model is also the first new model since its new rebranding last year which was slammed by fans and owners. The Type 00 is set to be a four-door saloon rather than a coupe model the marquee built its name on. The model is also controversial because the British brand is set to pivot from making sporty saloons and SUVs to focus on electric cars.The model is the first new EV since the I-Pace in 2018.

The controversy continues, with the concept car built with no rear windows.Shots from the circuit showing the window blocked by bodywork. Little information is known about the Type 00, which is expected to be launched in 2026 or 2027.

Jaguar has previously claimed the model was set to recreate the "same sense of awe" as achieved by iconic models such as the Jaguar E-Type.

Adrian Marshall, chief executive officer of JLR, has previously said: "The magic of Jaguar is close to my heart - an original British luxury brand unmatched in its heritage, artistry and emotional magnetism.

"That's the Jaguar we are recapturing and we will create the same sense of awe that surrounded iconic models like the Etype. Our journey is already underway, guided by our original ethos to Copy Nothing - and the results will be spectacular."

The only details known about the latest model are that the car will have around 480 miles of range. The Type 00 is also tipped to have a dual-motor setup with a battery likely capable of around 500hp. Jaguar has described their Type 00 as the beginning of a "radical new design language" for the marque.

They stressed the design was an "exuberant statement of things to come" and suggested the new model was "bold, unexpected and fearless".

Professor Gerry McGovern OBE, Chief Creative Officer at JLR explained: "Type 00 is a pure expression of Jaguar's new creative philosophy. It has an unmistakable presence.

"This is the result of brave, unconstrained creative thinking, and unwavering determination. It is our first physical manifestation and the foundation stone for a new family of Jaguars that will look unlike anything you've ever seen. A vision which strives for the highest level of artistic endeavour."