Rendered Speculation: New Jaguar XJ to get hybrid drivetrain in 2009
Jaguar is set to start a new era under new ownership next year. To celebrate they'll unwrap an all-new XJ sedan in mid-2009, a vehicle that is expected to have the brand's first hybrid power-train. The current XJ already weighs in at a surprisingly sprightly 3,726 lbs thanks to it's aluminum structure. The new car will keep an updated version of the aluminum structure to carry the new XF inspired body work. Motivating the fancy new duds will be the latest addition to the power-train lineup. Jaguar will debut its hybrid power-train in the new flagship model. A bank of ultra-capacitors will be used for electrical energy storage in combination with an electric motor backing up the 3.0L V-6. The new XJ should appear in concept form late in 2008 with production in mid-2009.[Source: AutoExpress]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
ryan 8:14AM (11/26/2007)
Uhh.. is it just me, or are we starting to bend the rules a bit for cars these days? I mean, a V6 is twice what anyone should really need from an engine, and sure it has a hybrid power train, but the car still weighs in at 3700 lbs. It IS better than the alternative, but that is not saying much. Hybrids are getting cheapened by cars like these.
Then again I am a person will not be satisfied until our cars run on an infinitely sustainable resource and produce no pollution at any stage of their life. I won't be moderately happy until 100mpg plus cars are the norm. Until then I will do everything in my power to achieve said goals.
End rant.
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Hank 10:11AM (11/26/2007)
Less than a hundred pounds more than a Hybrid Camry. Considering the manufacturer, that's pretty impressive. I wonder what the mph/CO2 will be?
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Alex 8:53AM (11/27/2007)
Companies like Jaguar need to keep an air of luxury and exclusivity about them. I think it's great that Jaguar wants to go the green route and add in a hybrid powertrain. Is it going to be as efficient as a Pruis? Unlikely. But at the same time, its a luxury car. No one would buy a Jaguar XJ if it came with a CVT and a 3 cylinder hitched up to a battery and motor.
They are taking the right steps in the right direction. It'll be a long time before we see 100 mpg cars as the norm. There is a huge distance between here and there. No company is going to be able to make that in one step.
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