Aluminum Coupe Shows New Jaguar Design Direction

DETROIT – The Jaguar Advanced Lightweight Coupe represents the future of Jaguar design and is key to the recovery of the brand, says Joseph Greenwell, chairman and CEO of Jaguar Cars Ltd., at the introduction of the concept here at the North American International Auto Show.

Jaguar was forced to make tough decisions last year in announcing its proposed restructuring, Greenwell says.

The auto maker acknowledges it will take time to turn the brand around. In addition to becoming leaner, Jaguar says it will rebuild with a new generation of products, starting with the replacement next year of the aging XK, now in its final year. (See related story: Jaguar Seeks More Cash From Ford)

Under Jaguar Design Director Ian Callum, the start of a new era begins with the Advanced Lightweight Coupe concept.

The 2+2 show car uses the lightweight aluminum body technology that debuted on the XJ and is destined to become a Jaguar hallmark going forward. The result is a body that is 40% lighter and 60% stiffer than a conventional steel body.

In keeping with Callum’s vision of Jaguar as powerful and elegant, the lines of the car are muscular and taut, with subtle curves. The geometrical oval front grille is an indicator of the look of future Jaguars.

“We will build this to revitalize Jaguar,” Callum says. “This is our future.”

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