Aiming for Optimal Handling with Lightweight Design and Latest Electric Power Steering

In March,Geneva Motor Showits manufacturing was announced,Jaguar's New Sports Saloon "XE"will finally be unveiled in September. This latest model, likely to be publicly revealed at the Paris Motor Show the following month, is said to be a compact sports saloon, the first since Jaguar's iconic "Mark II" model sold over 50 years ago.



The rear suspension employs an integral link system. Compared to the conventional multi-link system, this offers increased longitudinal and lateral rigidity, delivering sharp responsiveness as well as a luxurious ride.

For both the front and rear suspensions, many components are made of forged or hollow-molded aluminum, contributing to rigidity while simultaneously reducing the vehicle's weight.



The steering system features the latest Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS), adopted for the first time by Jaguar. Thanks to EPAS's advanced algorithms, finer control is possible compared to conventional hydraulic power steering, enabling not only improved maneuverability but also features like increased assistance at low speeds for easier handling, and even advanced functions such as active safety and driving assistance.

Additionally, the "All Surface Progress Control (ASPC)," a first for Jaguar, is equipped to assist in escaping slippery surfaces, a common challenge for rear-wheel-drive vehicles. Developed based on Jaguar Land Rover's long-standing expertise in traction control in off-road conditions, it functions like an electronically controlled low-speed cruise control, enabling the vehicle to achieve optimal traction without slipping, even without driver input on the accelerator.

Engine: All-New Design from the Ground Up

The engine powering the Jaguar XE is Jaguar Land Rover's next-generation power unit, "INGENIUM," designed from a blank slate.

Five requirements were set for the development of this new engine: "Flexibility and future-proofing to be adaptable to various vehicles," "Capability to handle both large and small displacements," "Compatibility with various engine layouts such as rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive," "Support for manual, automatic, and even hybrid powertrains," and "Ease of adoption for new engine technologies as they are developed."

Developed to meet these demands, the Ingenium engine is available in both gasoline and diesel variants, both equipped with turbochargers. For both gasoline and diesel, the bore, stroke, cylinder spacing, 500cc cylinder capacity, and many modular internal components are common, allowing for flexible adaptation to future lineup expansions and regional needs.



Furthermore, in addition to the chassis, the engine itself has been lightened, resulting in a weight reduction of up to 80kg compared to current equivalent engines. Reducing internal friction was also a key objective for improving fuel efficiency; the initial 2-liter diesel turbo, the "AJ200D," boasts a 17% reduction in friction compared to its predecessor.

The Ingenium engines are scheduled to begin mass production in 2015 at Jaguar Land Rover's new engine plant, newly established in Wolverhampton, West Midlands, UK.

The Jaguar XE, a purely British car developed and produced entirely within the UK, will be unveiled in London on September 8th.