Jaguar & Land Rover Readying Hybrid Versions

Former Ford Group owned Jaguar and Land Rover are developing a series of hybrid models that will go on sale in Europe within the next five years. British magazine Autocar is reporting that the two carmakers that are now part of the Indian Tata Motors Group are developing two hybrid systems based around two new engines, a 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel version of the current 2.7 V6 and the all-new 5.0-liter V8 petrol unit that’s expected sometime next year.

The first mild-hybrid models to be introduced into the market will be the Land Rover Discovery 3, Range Rover Sport, Jaguar XF and Jaguar XJ in 2010. All of these models will be equipped with the 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel unit combined with a micro-hybrid system using stop-start technology. This system alone is believed to boost fuel economy of these vehicles by as much as 10 percent. -Continued

It is also reported that Land Rover is developing a more sophisticated version with a super-capacitor for short-term storage of electricity and a starter-generator that will be able to recharge the battery during engine-braking. This system could make its appearance as early as 2010.

As for a full-hybrid, both British carmakers are expected to introduce their propositions in 2012. However, Jaguar and Land Rover will use different solutions with the 4x4 maker expected to utilize a rear-mounted 'Electric Rear Axle Drive' electric motor.

Via: Autocar