Jaguar's latest concept shows that the company is not only capable of building sports cars, but it can make environmentally sound cars as well. The series hybrid C-X75 concept posts low emissions figures, astounding 0 to 60 mph times, and incredible fuel economy.
Jaguar's concept showcases a new design and hybrid power train. The cab seems almost an afterthought, slung low between the large wheels, 21s in front and 22s in back. The car is a celebration of Jaguar's 75 years, hence its name, but also a test bed for a new power train.
Designer Ian Callum calls invokes the 1966 XJ13 Le Mans prototype when talking about the C-X75, as a car that also previewed new engine technology for Jaguar. The C-X75 uses a series hybrid system, with electric motors at each wheel drawing electricity from a lithium ion battery pack, and the battery pack getting recharged from two micro gas turbines.
Each of the four electric motors churns out 195 horsepower, making a combined 780 horsepower for the set. Overall torque is 1,180 pound-feet, a huge amount of twist considering the car's weight of under 3,000 pounds. Jaguar claims performance figures of 3.4 seconds to 62 mph and a top speed of 205 mph.
The body is designed for light weight, aerodynamic efficiency, and downforce. Handling is aided by all-wheel drive from the four electric motors, and their combined torque vectoring capability.
The two gas turbines sit in an airbox behind the cabin, visible through a glass window. These turbines spin at 80,000 rpm, and need 35,000 liters of air per minute. The car can go 68 miles under electric power only, after which the gas turbines kick in to recharge the batteries, giving it a total range of 560 miles. In a special track mode, the electricity from the gas turbines is sent directly to the wheel motors.
Instead of an adjustable seat, Jaguar made the pedals, steering wheel, and instrument cluster adjustable. The cabin uses brushed aluminum and neoprene as a soft-touch material, lending a taste of futuristic luxury. The cabin also benefits from an audio system designed by Bowers & Wilkins.
The electric motors use a single-gear transmission, so the paddles on the steering wheel do not control actual gears. They most likely select virtual gears or control Drive and Reverse.
The C-X75 uses an LCD for its instrument cluster that can adapt its display depending on driving situations. The Standard display, shown, puts speed on the left, navigation in the center, and range on the right. A Track mode keeps speed on the left, but changes the right gauge to available power and the center to lap times. Heritage mode shows a representation of a Jaguar D-type instrument cluster.
