by New Information About the Canceled Jaguar XJ
Designer Ian Callum has revealed additional details about the Jaguar XJ, which was supposed to be introduced in 2021, but the project was canceled despite being nearly complete. This model was intended to be part of Jaguar’s new line of electric vehicles, but due to changes in the company’s leadership, it was never released.
Key Features of the Model
History of the Project Cancellation
Jaguar was preparing to launch a fully electric GT, but years ago the company was already finishing work on the updated XJ. However, the project was closed in early 2021, despite its readiness. Since then, there has been little information about the car, but last year an image of a prototype emerged, showing that the model combined stylistic elements of the previous XJ and the I-Pace.
Interview with Ian Callum
In the My Week In Cars podcast, the designer said that the car departed from tradition, offering a single wheelbase that combined the characteristics of the short and long versions of previous models.
So the stillborn X360 Jaguar ‘XJ-E’ has leaked. I’m still after the studio launch photos… — Richard Seddon (@RikSed) November 17, 2024
According to Callum, the XJ was almost ready by the time he left Jaguar and was initially planned as a fully electric model. However, the designer also noted that the car could have used a six-cylinder engine if the need had arisen.
Possible Alternatives
This unexpected decision could have been a successful move, as several electric luxury sedans have not gained popularity. Jaguar could have responded to low demand by installing a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with approximately 355 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
Other Canceled Projects
In addition to the XJ, the company was also working on a number of other models, including a new F-Pace crossover. A completely new J-Pace, similar in size to the Range Rover, was also under development, as well as a new sports model that could have been the successor to the F-Type. Callum was pleased with these projects, but changes in leadership led to their cancellation.
Future of Jaguar
Whether this decision was correct is still unknown. However, the situation does not look too optimistic, as Jaguar recently postponed the launch of its future GT. This raises questions about the brand’s strategy and its ability to compete in the electric vehicle market.
The cancellation of the XJ and other models highlights the difficulty of automakers’ transition to electric technologies. Many companies face challenges related to demand, technology, and management decisions. Jaguar, with its rich history, is trying to find a balance between tradition and innovation, but the path to success is proving more difficult than expected. Delays and project cancellations may affect consumer confidence and the brand’s position in the market.
