| The outgoing six cylinder saloon, launched in 1994, had been the first model of Jaguar´s new era, signalling the quality renaissance of the company. The XJ Series had achieved unprecedented levels of customer satisfaction, equalling the best competitive standards. It has been replaced by the new V8 XJ Series, which builds on this success and is the latest step in Jaguar´s long term product strategy. Subtle refinement of the saloon´s lithe, elegant exterior signals extensive changes beneath the skin. The Jaguar AJ-V8 32-valve, alloy engine, first introduced in the XK8 has now been introduced in the XJ Series saloon in three forms - 3.2 and 4.0 litre normally aspirated, and an ultra high performance supercharged 4.0 litre, all mated to five speed automatic transmissions.
Over 30 per cent of the body structure is new or modified for enhanced quality, durability and structural performance. Torsional stiffness, a key determinant of bodyshell refinement is also improved, placing Jaguar among the leaders. The softer shapes of the new bumpers and new front grille complement the sculpted surfaces of the sheet metal. All exterior lamps incorporate the latest complex surface reflector technology, combining a 10 per cent increase in headlamp output with a sparkling "jewel-like" appearance.
The interior of the V8 XJ Series is a contemporary evolution of Jaguar´s styling ´signature´, where traditional materials and expert craftsmanship are thoughtfully blended with high technology. Occupant comfort, ergonomics and legroom are improved, while safety is enhanced through new front seat-mounted side airbags and front seat belt pre-tensioners. The bodyshell has also been strengthened to meet the latest worldwide safety regulations.
The vehicle dynamics systems of the new V8 XJ Series are redesigned to enhance the legendary Jaguar driving experience. Where possible, the chassis systems of the XK8 sports car were adapted to the requirements of the new V8 saloons. The extensive changes include a new front suspension, the latest generation Teves Mk XX braking system, stability and traction control, variable ratio speed proportional power steering, drive-by-wire throttle management and retuned rear suspension. The new on-centreline differential and two-piece propshaft reduce noise and vibration. Jaguar´s Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) introduced on XK8, is standard fitment on supercharged saloon models to provide a unique combination of sports handling and limousine comfort. All models are fitted with Pirelli tyres and alloy wheels. The result is a fully optimised vehicle dynamics package of wheel, tyre and suspension changes tailored for each individual model in the new V8 XJ Series range.
The new V8 XJ Series features the same advanced electronics design principles as XK8, to support the comprehensive feature specification, as well as providing world class reliability. The system incorporates multiplex harnessing, a Controller Area Network for all drivetrain functions and a Standard Corporate Protocol for body systems. Multiplexing enables the vehicle´s electronic modules to intercommunicate quickly and share information. It also reduces the number and length of wires for improved reliability and packaging.
The same principles as those used in the XK8 product development process were employed, delivering the new saloon range in just 28 months from programme approval. A minimum of 80 per cent by weight of each new Jaguar is recyclable. Care for the environment is a major priority for Jaguar engineers and the new saloons and sports cars reflect the company´s ongoing commitment to an environmentally benevolent strategy. All XK8 and V8 XJ Series bodies are painted at Castle Bromwich, using waterborne paint systems which cut basecoat solvent emissions by 85 per cent.
By the end of 1997, Jaguar´s three sites at Browns Lane, Whitley and Castle Bromwich had achieved the stringent QS9000 quality standard. Furthermore, Jaguar had become the first Vehicle Operations company world-wide to achieve the coveted FTPM Checkpoint D - Ford´s Total Productive Maintenance Award - in recognition of the company´s adherence to the philosophy of zero accidents, zero equipment downtime, zero rejects and zero waste. Fittingly, in the year when the company celebrated its 75th anniversary, a major expansion of the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust was announced during October. The development will form a lasting memorial to Jaguar´s founder, Sir William Lyons. At the heart of the development will be a new, £1 million world headquarters and museum for the Trust at Browns Lane. The Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust has the responsibility for preserving a unique and historic collection of vehicles, which graphically trace the lineage of Jaguar and its associated marques back to the very start of the motor industry in the United Kingdom.
Early in 1998, Jaguar announced that the mid-sized S-Type sports saloon, (codenamed X200), will make its world debut at the Birmingham International Motor Show in October. The S-Type will be in full production by 1999 and will ensure that Jaguar will enter the new millennium with record levels of production and the broadest product range in the company´s history. The company also announced plans for a new, smaller saloon. Codenamed X400, the car will compete in the C/D sector of the market and will be built at Halewood on Merseyside - which will become a Jaguar plant by the time of the new car´s launch in 2001.
Announcing the decision, Nick Scheele commented: "This is excellent news for Jaguar. Over the course of the next four years, we will progress from being a company with just two model lines, selling 45,000 cars a year, to being a full-line, four model premium vehicle manufacturer, producing 200,000 vehicles each year." |
