Why Air Conditioning Has Become a Worthwhile Upgrade for Modern E-Type Owners
While the Jaguar E-Type remains one of the most beautiful sports cars ever built, driving conditions have changed considerably since its introduction. When the E-Type was released in the 1960s, air conditioning was far less common in the UK. Whilst classic cars were generally used differently, often for shorter journeys and less frequently. Modern owners are increasingly using their E-Types for touring holidays, rallies, road trips and summer events. However, recently, summers have been seeing significantly higher temperatures than owners would have experienced historically. The increasingly hot temperatures and longer journeys mean many owners are looking for ways to improve comfort without compromising the character of their Jaguar.
In addition to rising temperatures, other factors can also affect your cabin comfort in hot weather. This includes large glass areas, which create a greenhouse effect, heat from the engine and exhaust can transfer to the cabin, and a dark interior can absorb heat. Additionally, coupes can become particularly warm on long journeys, and having your windows open often isn’t enough when temperatures are high. Traffic congestion means drivers spend more time stationary with little airflow.
Installing air conditioning can reduce driver fatigue and can make driving longer journeys more enjoyable. In addition, it allows owners to use their classic car more frequently during summer, improves comfort for passengers and helps make touring events and continental trips more practical.
To help combat these issues, we have developed an air conditioning kit. Designed specifically for Series 1 and Series 1.5 Jaguar E-Types, the kit can be integrated neatly within the vehicle, with a focus on maintaining the E-Type’s appearance and character. The kit is available for both left-hand-drive and right-hand-drive E-Types. Development began with a detailed 3D scan of the engine bay, allowing us to accurately capture the available space and dimensions in place of the original heater box. Using this data, we created a digital 3D model of the unit, which was then prototyped through 3D printing before being refined and assembled with the required components. The result is a bespoke air conditioning unit designed specifically to integrate seamlessly within early E-Type models.
A recently completed project, the Dubai Series 1.5 E-Type, had this air conditioning unit installed. We replaced the original heater box with a dual-purpose unit that can deliver both cool and heated air. The Dubai E-Type’s cabin can now be effectively cooled, making the Jaguar far more practical for regular driving in the warmer climate, greatly improving usability and drivability for our client. In this particular Dubai E-Type, the client requested the integration of two air conditioning vents within the dashboard. However, the installation is highly configurable, allowing vent locations and system details to be adapted to suit each client's preferences. We offer a complete installation service available in-house, or the kits can be purchased separately.
We understand that many E-Type owners worry about modifications. We take great care to ensure the modern upgrades are integrated without disrupting the classic look. Although the process of integrating older-style components with newer systems can be challenging, our specialist restoration technicians have the skills and experience required to undertake this project. The objective is not to modernise the E-Type, but to make it more enjoyable to use in modern conditions.
The air conditioning unit is ideal for installation during restoration projects, engine bay work, before the summer touring season, or before events and European road trips. If you are looking to get an air conditioning unit installed on your Jaguar E-Type, please don’t hesitate to get in contact. Call us on 0115 926 2266 or email us at info@thorntonrestorations.com.