Jag and Lotus join up for hybrid XJ

Get ready for the Big Cat with the tiny engine! After unveiling the XJ saloon at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Jaguar is ready to start testing a plug-in electric hybrid engine – with a 1.2-litre powerplant.

The Limo-Green project, funded by the UK’s Technology Strategy Board, is a collaboration between Jaguar and Lotus, vehicle tech firm Caparo and the Motor Industry Research Association (MIRA).

Instead of powering the car, the three-cylinder unit recharges the car’s lithium-ion batteries. It should be capable of 0-60mph in less than eight seconds, and have a 620-mile range. The electric motor has 195bhp, and the XJ can travel for 30 miles without using the petrol unit to recharge. Economy of 50mpg and CO2 emissions of 120g/km are being targeted.

While the Limo-Green is still at the prototype stage, Jaguar is committed to providing green power within its range. It is currently developing stop-start technology for its automatic models.

The new XJ arrives in January, with a choice of V8 petrol and V6 diesel engines. All models have panoramic glass and a virtual display that shows analogue dials on a digital screen. Prices start at £52,500 for the 3.0 Diesel Luxury version, while the flagship 5.0-litre V8 Supercharged Supersport costs £88,000.