It’s fair to say hybrid-electric cars haven’t exactly converted the average petrol-head up to now. But Jaguar, using jet engine technology, look set to inject some much needed masculinity into the eco-market with the C-X75.
Twin micro gas turbines surge power directly to the engine, helping the chassis hurtle from 0-62mph in 3.5 seconds (the subtle weight of the apparatus also playing a considerable part), hit 100mph in 5.5 seconds and if track conditions are good, punch in an impressive 205mph.
While it can run on a number of fuels, the twin turbines make electric the more alluring option. The lithium-ion battery can be charged from the turbines, allowing the car to travel up to 560 miles between fill-ups, instead of the regular 68 miles.
Like every good supercar, it's not for the family man. Two seats only, a suede-leather dashboard with metallic trimmings, high-end surround sound speakers, all lit up by a neon blue ‘theatre’ lighting, which alters depending the setting – one being ‘Aircraft in combat mode’ which dims the lights to direct the driver’s attention to the road. The ultimate boy's toy.
It's just been unveiled at the Paris Motor Show where it was dubbed ‘The E-Type for the 21st Century’, in the same year as Jaguar’s 75th year as a brand. There was no word on mainstream production but they did mention it would cost around £200,000 – a price that might see John Prescott struggle to live up to his nickname.
