The Jordan Honda EJ11 is Jordan's first Formula One car built to incorporate the new evolution Honda RA001E engine and heralds the new partnership between the team and Honda Motor Company. As a consequence, there has been a complete re-design of chassis and gearbox, with the design emphasis slanted towards ensuring that the quest for outright speed and the adoption of new regulations in no way compromises reliability.

New regulations imposed by the FIA have been the major factor governing aerodynamic design, and give the car a very different look from the 2000 chassis, specifically around the front and rear wings. The team's aerodynamic work force has increased by 25% since August 2000, and the EJ11 reflects the extensive aerodynamic development program of recent months. In addition, the side pods have been altered to accommodate the new side impact crash test requirements. The car's roll hoop resembles that of Jordan's race winning 199, being more rounded rather than the sharply triangulated version utilised in 2000.

The new gearbox is based on the much-modified 2000 unit having seven speeds rather than six and incorporating alterations designed to safeguard reliability. In line with current F1 design philosophy the front and rear suspension features pushrod-operated Penske dampers, while the EJ11 utilises Brembo brake calipers and Brembo and Hitco carbon fibre discs. With increased competition between tyre manufacturers, Jordan has opted to continue its successful partnership with Bridgestone, working closely with the Japanese company during the winter to develop new specification tyres.