Jaguar to build C-X75

Jaguar has announced that the C-X75 concept car from the 2010 Paris Motor show will enter limited production. Strictly limited to just 250 units, the hybrid super car is tipped to cost from £700,000 (depending on local taxes).

The C-X75 will utilize a turbocharged 1.6-liter four cylinder engine mated to axle-based electric motors. With this setup, the production vehicle will retain the concept's setup, making this an advanced hybrid supercar. This means that the C-X75 should be capable of over 200mph, while having an emissions rating of just 99g/km CO2 (although presumably not at the same time).

Initially, the jet-hybrid powertrain of the Paris concept will be ditched in favor of the petrol unit, however development is continuing to see whether a limited run of the jet-powered cars can be constructed towards the end of the C-X75's production run.

"People expect us to be innovators," says Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar brand director. "The C-X75 received an incredible reception as a concept car. We've been building on that momentum and there is a clear business case for the exclusive halo model. No other vehicle will better signify Jaguar's renewed confidence and excellence in technological innovation than this."

"We were always determined that the Jaguar C-X75 would be as striking on the road as it was in concept form," adds Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar Cars. "This will be the finest looking and most innovative Jaguar ever produced. Even in the world of supercars, we can still produce the most beautiful."

As the XJ220 was built in collaboration with TWR, Jaguar is turning to another famous UK motorsport name with the C-X75. The Williams F1 team will provide their engineering expertise in aerodynamics, carbon composite manufacture and hybrid technologies.

At the announcement, Sir Frank Williams, Chairman of Williams F1, said: "Williams has always considered itself an engineering company and so this project will allow us to combine our technical expertise to create something truly exceptional."

"Never before has the company launched such an ambitious, world-beating vehicle program," said Carl-Peter Forster, CEO Tata Motors. "This is the Jaguar of the future. The opportunity for innovation like this in the UK is part of the reason Tata Motors invested in Jaguar, and it's fantastic that products like the C-X75 can become reality."

By John O'Brien