Skip advert
Advertisement

Jaguar Land Rover SVO eyes bespoke sports car to rival Mercedes-AMG

JLR's Special Vehicle Operations division is keen to create its own bespoke sports car in the wake of the Project 7 and new Project 8

Jaguar F-Type SVR - front tracking

Jaguar Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division, responsible for the new XE SV Project 8, will build its own bespoke models in the future, according to brand boss John Edwards.

Rather than sticking to enhanced versions of existing models like F-Type-based Project 7 and XE-based Project 8, the SVO division will also target cars like the Mercedes-AMG GT by creating a totally unique sports car of its own.

Advertisement - Article continues below

“Deep down we want to make our own model,” Edwards told Auto Express. “Just look at  the success of the [Mercedes] AMG GT.” 

Goodwood Festival of Speed 2017

It’s possible that Jaguar could create a rival for the AMG GT by using  the mechanical make-up of the F-Type  SVR (right) and dressing it in a bespoke body, with a unique interior.

Edwards emphasised the need for  SVO to get its early ‘Project’ cars right before embarking on standalone models, however. While it’s currently unclear which JLR products  are next in line for the SVO treatment, Edwards explained that the Jaguar F-Pace and upcoming Range Rover Velar SUVs had “great potential”.

The new XE SV Project 8 went from first sketch to official reveal in 12 months, proving JLR has the ability to accelerate development of its future bespoke sports car should it wish. Edwards praised the freedom his team of engineers had been given for the Project 7 and Project 8, in fact, and confirmed he was looking towards the next generation of products.

Would a bespoke Jaguar SVO sports car be a hit? Have your say in the comments...

Skip advert
Advertisement
Deputy editor

Richard has been part of the team for over a decade. During this time he has covered a huge amount of news and reviews for Auto Express, as well as being the face of Carbuyer and DrivingElectric on Youtube. In his current role as deputy editor, he is now responsible for keeping our content flowing and managing our team of talented writers.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Best new cars coming soon: all the big new car launches due in 2024, 2025 and beyond
Best new cars coming soon - header image

Best new cars coming soon: all the big new car launches due in 2024, 2025 and beyond

These are the biggest and most important new cars headed our way, from brands including Audi, BMW, Dacia, Ferrari, Ford, Skoda and more
Best cars & vans
4 Nov 2024
Jaguar confirms end of new UK cars sales until 2026
Jaguar I-Pace - front cornering

Jaguar confirms end of new UK cars sales until 2026

Sales ends on entire Jaguar line-up ahead of 2026 relaunch as luxury electric brand
News
1 Nov 2024
The scariest cars we've ever driven
Scariest cars we've ever driven - header image

The scariest cars we've ever driven

The Auto Express team have cast their minds back to the scariest cars they’ve had to endure
Best cars & vans
31 Oct 2024
New Jaguar GT due soon as first of a three-car luxury line-up
Jaguar 4-door Coupe exclusive image

New Jaguar GT due soon as first of a three-car luxury line-up

Electric four-door saloon will be followed by coupé and SUV; you’ll “want a Jaguar, not need one” according to MD
News
9 Sep 2024

Most Popular

Fuel duty frozen, but new car buyers hit by VED hikes
Parliament

Fuel duty frozen, but new car buyers hit by VED hikes

Labour’s first budget spares drivers at the pumps, while industry raises investment fears
News
31 Oct 2024
Renault 5 review
Renault 5 - front tracking

Renault 5 review

The retro-inspired Renault 5 electric supermini is well-priced, nice to drive, and has great tech
In-depth reviews
31 Oct 2024
New Hyundai Inster 2024 review: quirky EV is appealing despite its high price
Hyundai Inster - front

New Hyundai Inster 2024 review: quirky EV is appealing despite its high price

The new Hyundai Inster EV is fun to drive, has plenty of space and is well equipped
Road tests
1 Nov 2024