Up to 10
limited edition Jaguar C-X75 supercars using gas turbines could go into
production, retaining the futuristic and ultra-cool powertrain first seen on
the concept car.
The Jaguar
C-X75 concept car was envisaged as using predominately an electric powertrain,
while gas turbines would be used to act like range-extenders, recharging the
batteries to give the C-X75 a longer range.
Jaguar then
announced the production version would lose these turbines in favour of a more
conventional electric-based setup using a turbocharged petrol engine, developed
by Williams F1 technology no doubt, to provide extra range and propulsion.
It’s
understood Jaguar is now aiming to produce just 10 of those versions with the
gas turbines. It doesn’t necessarily mean it will be a jet-powered car, per se,
the turbines will simply be used to generate more electricity for the
batteries, and extend the overall range.
The Jaguar
project was developed as a kind of spiritual successor to the old Jaguar XJ13,
showcasing an hourglass figure with high wheel arches front and rear. Inside is
equally glorious, with flowing shapes and lines building the structure around
the driver.
Overall
power figures are yet to be finalised, however, the C-X75 will be Jaguar’s most
powerful production vehicle. It’s expected to crack 0-100km/h in under 3.0
seconds, while top speed will be beyond 320km/h (200mph). All of this while
offering a very reasonable fuel consumption rating.
Thanks to a
carbon fibre chassis, the C-X75 is expected to be very light in weight. The
chassis will also provide strong and rigid dynamics for optimum handling and
high-speed stability.
Overall,
250 are planned to hit the market in 2013. As far as we know, some will be
built in right-hand drive and become available in various markets. Australia is
on the cards to be one of those markets. As for the 10 gas turbine versions, it
is likely none of these will head Down Under.
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