New Jag Roadster to Arrive With Snarl, Whine

Edward Niedermeyer
by Edward Niedermeyer

Motor Trend has “learned” that a version of the oftrumored Jag “XE” roadster might have more than just a supercharger whine. They say the 2011 (likely XF-based) “new age E-Type” ( lots of luck) will include an extended-range electric version. But don’t worry heritage fans . . . there will still be a proper engine. With three cylinders. Motor Trend kids you not. At least until they mention that “whether the extended-range XE will make it beyond the concept stage is uncertain.” But only after hinting that the forthcoming XJ is also due for the EREV treatment, circa “late” 2011. Time, tide and CAFE standards wait for no automaker? MT figures an EREV Jag will compete with the Tesla Roadster. Which, considering the differences between the XF and the Elise as starting points, probably only means the EREV Jag soft-top will cost around $100K. Perhaps sir would rather look at a V8 model?

Edward Niedermeyer
Edward Niedermeyer

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  • Chuck Goolsbee Chuck Goolsbee on Jun 17, 2009

    Perhaps they have found a new energy source in the form of Sir William Lyons spinning in his grave? --chuck

  • Martin Schwoerer Martin Schwoerer on Jun 17, 2009

    Having driven several EVs at a conference last week, I can tell you: a fast electric car is breathtaking. The Mindset, about which I am writing a short review, is for the first few seconds quicker than a 911 Turbo. And I'm talking about an EV that does not try to be particularly fast. If they get the battery longevity issues and range extender bits sorted out, folks, then the future is electric. For Jaguar too.

  • Njoneer Njoneer on Jun 17, 2009

    Why do you tease us with the beautiful F-type concept? This new Jag will probably look like another Prius-Insight-Volt clone. Ugh.

  • Tauronmaikar Tauronmaikar on Jun 17, 2009

    "Having driven several EVs at a conference last week, I can tell you: a fast electric car is breathtaking. The Mindset, about which I am writing a short review, is for the first few seconds quicker than a 911 Turbo. And I’m talking about an EV that does not try to be particularly fast. If they get the battery longevity issues and range extender bits sorted out, folks, then the future is electric. For Jaguar too." You are completely jumping the gun here. Nothing is known about the long-term reliability of battery-powered cars, that is, the battery or the auxiliary systems like the battery cooling system that is required to keep all that inefficient power transmission in check. Not to mention battery disposal and that is just the issues we can think of and not the surprises that will come along the way. The future may be electric, but I doubt it will be in the shape and form we see today.

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