Jaguar's latest Electric Concept car divides Opinions

By Global Leaders Insights Team | Dec 03, 2024

Jaguar, the luxury automobile manufacturer, has presented its new electric concept car, less than two weeks after releasing a teaser video that sparked internet debate.

The introduction of the Type 00 automobile elicited varied reactions from social media users, with some praising its design and others mocking the launch.

Many critics pointed out last month that the advertising movie previewing the new model did not include an actual automobile, while some commended the company for its innovative new strategy.

The carmaker, which is undergoing the most significant transition in its history, has unveiled a new logo and released a "social media tease" ahead of its relaunch as an electric-only brand.

Gerry McGovern, the UK-based company's chief creative officer, said at the Type 00 event in Miami on Monday that he was pleased with the attention Jaguar's new direction was receiving.

"It has already stirred emotions and it will continue to," he added.

"Jaguar has no desire to be loved by everybody."

Responses to Jaguar's social media posts on the car ranged from "Go back to the drawing board" and "hopefully this doesn't actually come out" to "Exciting" and "Absolutely stunning".

Car industry analyst Karl Brauer was skeptical of the makeover.

The firm appears to be "sacrificing Jaguar's past to the hopes of a better future," he told the BBC. "I don't think it's going to work" .

Last month, the business advised customers to "trust and reserve judgement" over the rebranding of the company, which has a history extending back over a century.

Earlier in November, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) discontinued sales of new Jaguar vehicles in the United Kingdom in preparation for its rebirth as an electric-only brand in 2026.

The company stated that it was a conscious decision to "create some breathing space" before unveiling the new brand this month.

The company announced a shift to electric vehicles in 2021, with all three of its British operations remaining operating as part of the goal.

Jaguar has been the weakest link in the JLR group, controlled by Tata Motors for nearly a decade.

The Range Rover and Defender accounted for the company's biggest profits since 2015, which were disclosed earlier this year.