Centerforce 700400 Billet Steel Flywheel on 2040-parts.com

Jaguar’s XE Launch Exceeds All Expectations

AT a glittering launch event in London Jaguar treated the assembled media to a succession of theatrical and musical acts ahead of the main event – the long-awaited unveiling of its new XE compact executive saloon. The new car is a big deal for Jaguar, as it allows the Brit car maker to go head-to-head with the likes of BMW, Audi and Mercedes in the fiercely competitive compact executive market. Jaguar’s XE is tasked with showcasing a range of new technology that’s expected to be rolled out to other models in the coming years.

Volvo von Koenigsegg – the Vox Volvo P1800

The Vox Volvo P1800 - a modern reworking of the original with a 550bhp V8 Vöcks latest creation – The Vox Volvo P1800 -is based on the iconic Volvo P1800, which those of a certain age will remember was driven by Roger Moore’s Saint back in the ’60s. In its day the P1800 was something of a revelation – a sporty, appealing Volvo (come to think of it, it’s still a bit of a revelation!). Vöcks has remained faithful to the original P1800, at least in style.

Ford Motor Company design chief J Mays to be based in London

J Mays, Ford Motor Company group vice president for design, will be moving from the US to London in February and adding a new title: Chief Creative Officer. The new posting will allow Mays to work more closely with designers at Ford's Premier Automotive Group, including Ian Callum at Jaguar, Geoff Upex at Land Rover and Volvo's next design head. He will spend about 10 days a month in Dearborn with the North American design team.