Jaguar has revealed four sketches, in partnership with architect firm Barr Gazetas, that predict how the future of urban and rural landscapes could look thanks to the growing popularity of electric vehicles.
The car maker’s interest in the changing landscape stems from its investment in electric vehicles. Last year, it launched its well-received I-Pace electric SUV, and an electric XJ saloon is expected in 2020.
“Electric vehicles such as the I-PACE are proving hugely successful, with sales exceeding expectations,” a Jaguar spokesman told Autocar. “This was the reason for embarking on such a study with a group of architects.”
Jaguar design director Ian Callum, who collaborated on the designs with Barr Gazetas, said the growth in EVs gave a “unique chance for wholesale change of the facilities available for drivers as we reinvent usage and ‘filling’ patterns for our vehicles”.
The four sketches, entitled Today, Tomorrow, Electric City and Electric Future, propose a revival of defunct urban spaces, more connectivity between infrastructure, and reduced pollution and noise levels.
The first, Today, is a reimagination of Forton Services on the M6. Jaguar said that the eradication of conventional fuelling methods has allowed for a more open, cleaner and quieter environment. Longer fuel stops necessitated by slower charging methods have been exploited as an opportunity to establish restaurants, farm shops, gyms and other facilities within the service area.
Jaguar claims that such environmental improvements could allow for an increased connection to communities in the surrounding areas, as service stations become more of a destination in and of themselves.
