Jaguar's New ESS System Developed By Pramac and TCS Formula E Team

The new Jaguar has created an energy storage system (ESS) which has been developed by Pramac using second life I-Pace batteries which were deployed on prototype and engineering test vehicles. Jaguar is calling it the off-grid battery energy storage system which supplies zero-emissions power in parts of the world where supply is either limited or non-existent. Jaguar helped TCS Racing prepare for the 2022 ABB FIA Formula E world championship during testing in the UK and Spain. The ESS system was deployed to run the team's diagnostic equipment which analyse the race car's track performance and also supply auxiliary power to the Jaguar pit garage. 

“This announcement is a great example of how we will collaborate with industry leaders to deliver our sustainable future and achieve a truly circular economy. We're delighted to be working with Pramac to use Jaguar I-PACE second-life batteries to provide portable zero-emissions power and supporting Jaguar TCS Racing this season was an excellent opportunity to demonstrate what these units are capable of,” Andrew Whitworth, Battery Manager, Circular Economy Team at Jaguar Land Rover.

The Jaguar I-Pace is one of the more fun-to-drive electric offerings on sale in the country

This is also a showcase of race to road cyclical technology transfer where technologies developed for the apex of motorsport finds its way in normal day to day use cases as well. The learning from Jaguar's previous collaborations with the TCS Racing Formula E has flowed into the I-Pace in the form of software updates which in the past have accounted for a 20 km increase in range for the EV. 

“Formula E is the world's first net carbon zero sport since inception. Jaguar TCS Racing is always looking at improving our carbon footprint and using the storage system provides us with an innovative renewable energy solution for testing. To use second-life Jaguar I-PACE batteries completes this sustainable circle and showcases the team's Race To Innovate mission,” said James Barclay, Team Principal, Jaguar TCS Racing.

This new ESS system has a capacity of 125 kWh which is more than enough to charge the I-Pace electric SUV or even to power a normal family home for a week. The energy store is charged via solar panels and the unit is a self-contained solution that combines a battery system to a bi-directional converter and a control management system. These ESS systems will be available for commercial hire that are fitted with type 2 EV charge connections and rated up to 22 kW for AC power that even enables EV charging. 

This is also proof that the I-Pace and its batteries have a second life once the vehicle is scrapped. Potentially, there could be third life for low power applications. This collaboration which includes Jaguar Land Rover, Jaguar TCS Formula E team and Pramac will be collaborating further in the future that will further propel Jaguar Land Rover's transition towards being a fully electric vehicle brand by 2025. l