PREVIEW

Jaguar’s first new model since a controversial rebranding and moving to only producing electric vehicles, has hit the Arctic ice for cold weather testing.

The new luxury four-door GT is being tested in temperatures as low as minus 40°C in the Arctic Circle as part of what the company describes as the most demanding validation programme in its history.

Around 150 prototypes are covering hundreds of thousands of miles across desert roads, frozen lakes and virtual simulations. Jaguar says the programme is designed to push every system to its limits as it develops what it claims will be its most powerful and technically advanced production car to date.

Winter testing on frozen lakes in Sweden is focusing on refining drive modes to balance responsiveness and comfort. The four-door GT is expected to produce more than 1,000PS, making it the most powerful Jaguar road car ever, with an all-wheel-drive tri-motor system and Intelligent Torque Vectoring.

Engineers are also finalising calibrations for chassis systems, all-wheel steering, bespoke 23-inch winter tyres, dynamic air suspension and active twin-valve dampers.

Matt Becker, Vehicle Engineering Director at JLR, said: “Jaguar has always been about driving pleasure and our new electric four-door GT will be no different. It marks a step-change in our technical ambitions. Innovative in-house electric propulsion technologies combine with the car’s unique proportions and low centre of gravity for a luxurious grand tourer that drives like nothing else. Like a true Jaguar, it can be comfortable when you wish, is engaging to drive and, with more than 1,000PS, always has power in reserve.”

The Arctic testing is also being used to validate Jaguar’s ThermAssist thermal management system, which aims to reduce heating energy consumption by up to 40% and preserve driving range in cold conditions.

Jaguar’s managing director, Rawdon Glover, said the company remained focused on maintaining its core driving character as it moves to electric power.

“Our aim from the outset has been to deliver a true Jaguar driving experience and we have crafted a hugely desirable car that will be as captivating to drive as to look at,” he added.

Jaguar’s rebrand and new concept car, the Type 00, made headlines after it was first revealed back in December 2024. Bosses at the car company committed to shifting to produce all electric vehicles by 2026 - with the new GT in testing likely to represent the first production model of its new era.

Reaction to the rebrand has been mixed. While some motoring and design experts praised Jaguar for reinventing itself, others criticised the company for ditching its heritage. The debate even entered the political arena. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said the company “deserves to go bust” following the rebrand.