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Speculations suggest that Jaguar’s next iteration of the F-Type, influenced by comments from former designer Ian Callum, may adopt a mid-engine configuration, emulating the approach taken by the Corvette for its flagship sports car.
According to a report by Autocar, Jaguar is contemplating a shift from the traditional front-engine, rear-wheel-drive setup to a potential mid-engine and electric configuration in the upcoming F-Type model. Sources “close to the project” reportedly favor this direction.
In terms of design, Callum shared with Autocar that groundwork has already been laid by him and current Jaguar design head Julian Thomson for the Mk2 F-Type.
Callum mentioned, “We could achieve a design resemblance to the C-X75,” alluding to the mid-engined Jaguar concept notably featured in the 2015 Bond movie Spectre.
Jaguar C-X75, Jaguar Land Rover
“Jaguar still holds a blueprint for a front-mid-engine vehicle. Personally, I have a strong inclination towards mid-engine cars. It’s a vision I’d appreciate seeing materialize,” he noted.
However, there remains the possibility of a conventional, long-nosed, front-engine F-Type successor equipped with an internal combustion engine.
Callum suggested, “For an electric sports car, you could adopt a design akin to the C-X75 with battery placement in a T or H pattern through the center. Alternatively, a front-longitudinal, internal combustion mid-engine car could also be a feasible route. Its compact size makes it plausible. The aesthetic might not dictate the powertrain, but the powertrain could influence the aesthetic.”
When The Drive reached out to Jaguar for a response, a company representative abstained from “discussing future product strategies.” However, with the current F-Type expected to stay on the market for another three years, development for its successor would need to commence soon.
An earlier report hinted at the next F-Type being a 2+2 model powered by a BMW-sourced V8 generating 560 horsepower and likely positioned ahead of the passenger area. It could serve as a fallback option for Jaguar if the mid-engined electric concept doesn’t come to fruition.
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