Crossover concept production tempts Jaguar

Jaguar is giving serious thought to taking its crossover concept vehicle into a production model, and while no time frame has been given for a possible launch, Jaguar’s Design Director Ian Callum stated a decision would be taken later this year.

While Jaguar has been fitting all-wheel drive in many of their models, most new cars will get the all-wheel drive option at some point. But the brand is now currently listening to customers’ opinions about whether or not they should turn the crossover concept into a production mode.

“We can’t yet confirm if we will build it, but if we do build it, it will look very similar to the concept. While it can't be exactly the same because a conceptual car breaks a few rules in a number of areas, the built of the concept model is feasible.

“So far clients have urged us to build the crossover. It will be a while before we confirm it, but we’ll be making a decision this year,” he said.

With such a bold move away from the brand’s traditions, Jaguar needs to be sure the crossover model will be successful. “ It has to have brand equity as well so if we do build it, it will be very performance oriented rather than just off-road, because performance is Jaguar’s strength,” the Design Director stressed.

Launched at the Los Angeles Car Show, the Jaguar F-type coupe has come to be what the brand stands for. “Entirely made of aluminium, the two-seater is very driver focused.

“Personally I believe it looks even better than the convertible - it is very much the car we wanted to do for a while since the E-Type from 40 years ago. A striking car, a pleasure to drive. It is the centre of the Jaguar brand,” Callum satisfyingly said.

Another model exhibited at the Geneva Motor Show was the XF Sportbrake. Combining optimum balance of diesel performance and improved fuel efficiency with Intelligent Stop/Start gave birth to a greater economy.  

The refreshingly large load space is practical and versatile, with easy access and quick release rear-seat folding. Under-floor stowage and side pockets with mesh nets provide more storage space.

The six XF Sportbrake variants give customers a range of innovative driving technologies ensuring easy handling, regardless of load size. Optimal control and ride comfort are achieved through self-leveling rear air suspension, which compensates for heavier loads.

At the same time, the highly efficiency turbo produces an immediate response even at low speeds allowing for acceleration of 0-100km/h in 10.9 seconds.

Going back to car building, Callum commented about the huge investment and effort that goes into building a production car. “It is a lot more than people can ever imagine. The birth of a new model is spread over four years, with the new generation models shortening the span to three and a half years.

“From the first sketch and drawing through to the final point where we start building production cars, there an enormous amount of activity, with well over a 1000 people involved.  Thousands of millions are spent, not to mention the designing, engineering, prototype building, supplier and logistics of parts”

“Every detail and its cost has to be carefully calculated and accounted for. Then eventually you end up with a business plan that works. Today cars have become a very complicated item” Callum laughed.

More complicated to build, in fact, than airplanes. 40% of the R&D budget is spent on electronics alone. “The mechanical side used to take 90%, while electronic stuff was simply 10%. Now electronics have engulfed almost half our budgets,” he said.

If the model makes it to the launch, things keep getting changed, amended and perfected down to the last minute. “The launch cars are handed to a number of executives and if it is all good, we press the button and start building them”.

Over the years the brand has garnered a number of attributes. “Jaguar stands for performance and style. Aesthetically we produce exciting designs that people see as beautiful, and at the same time creating an agile, aerodynamically excellent performance car”.

As the interview drifted slightly from the topic of designing vehicles to launching them, I asked Callum to explain the allure of the Geneva Motor Show. “I simply love it. All manufactures arrive here on an equal standing. We have an equal status and an equal voice,” he said, echoing the statement of his brother Moray, who I had interviewed the previous day.

“For me it is a huge pilgrimage. Since 1978, I’ve been here every year except for a three-year break. It is my favourite show - small enough to walk around, yet big enough to meet everyone from Europe and the States.

“The Geneva Motor Show is definitely the best show in Europe and possibly the best show in the world - it collectively gets everything right,” he explained. With over 250 exhibitors in seven halls, the Geneva Motor Show provides a comprehensive view of what’s happening in the automotive sector.

“The automotive market is won by stacking one’s self against his best competitors. However you need a viewpoint - ours is to produce a better looking and superior performance car.

“We believe we have a winning combination, it's not easy and we’re under no illusion, but before any of your friends buy a 3-Series, they should try the Jaguar first”, Callum winked, as he finished his tea and talk turned to the island where it allegedly never gets cold.