Jaguar C-XF - more than a concept car

All of these features are prime examples of how the introduction of new technologies can be implemented by blending simplicity of design with practical innovation – and more importantly they give an early preview of what lies ahead for Jaguar customers.

POWERTRAIN (COMPONENTRY)

Beneath the C-XF’s bonnet, further technical excellence is immediately apparent. The car is powered by an enhanced version of Jaguar’s renowned 4.2-litre supercharged V8 engine. Tuned to produce in excess of 420bhp and 500Nm of torque – the latter produced from very low revs – this proven powerplant and its six-speed automatic transmission with Jaguar Sequential Shift manual gearchange capability, deliver superb sporting performance. If C-XF were a production car, it would reach an electronically limited top speed of 155mph, with the possibility of an unrestricted speed in excess of 180mph.

And the technology advances continue here, too, with the electrical architecture for the 4.2-litre engine encased in a unique carbon-fibre wiring ‘loom’. Designed and constructed by Beru F1 Systems, the electrical ‘spider’ harness is not only beautiful but also extremely functional.

”The new wiring loom is a designer’s dream,” says Julian Thomson. “We thought we would always have to live with the plethora of wires that runs around an engine bay. Now every wire is housed within a visually stunning harness that looks as if it is literally strapping the engine down, holding all that power in place.”

The C-XF is the first car ever to use Beru F1 System’s unique Wire in Composite (WIC) technology. WIC completely encloses all wiring in a bespoke carbon-fibre sleeve, protecting it from damage and also improving durability, packaging, weight and aesthetics. As the first vehicle to use the technology, the C-XF leaps ahead of upcoming debuts in both Formula 1 motor racing and the aerospace industry – and allows Jaguar to further investigate production car potential for the system.