AutoAction
FREE DIGITAL MAGAZINE SIGN UP

EXCLUSIVE: JAGUAR GEN3 SUPERCAR BID REVEALED

Jaguar Gen3 Supercar bid revealed

By Bruce Newton

Chaz Mostert racing a Jaguar F-Type Gen3 Supercar? In 2020 it got close to a green light!

But the bid to have the British sports luxury brand join the Australian Supercars championship has at very best been put on-hold or, more likely, been stymied for good.

As detailed in the new issue of AUTO ACTION, re-emerging championship heavyweight Walkinshaw Andretti United drove the project, which traces its beginnings back to late last decade.

Initially, the focus was said to be on racing a facsimile of the XE saloon, but as the coupe-friendly Supercar Gen3 technical set emerged, the F-Type two-door two-seater replaced it as the preferred choice.

Exclusive computer generated images depict what a Jaguar F-Type Supercar could look like.

AA understands the proposal had made its way to global Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) management by early 2020 for consideration and a potential sign-off.

However, the COVID crisis is believed to have ended the chances of a global green light as JLR’s board reacted cautiously to uncertain times.

Its motorsport investments have focused on the all-electric Formula E world championship, in which New Zealander Mitch Evans has just finished fourth for Jaguar.

Jaguar Land Rover’s Australian office was contacted for comment and responded with an emailed statement: “We receive many proposals seeking JLR Australia’s participation in a range of motorsport categories, however any discussions we may have between parties were done so on a confidential basis.”

WAU team principal Bruce Stewart refused to comment when contacted by AA.

However, at a press conference at the 2020 Bathurst 1000 Ryan Walkinshaw said COVID-19 had cruelled negotiations with a brand new to Supercars that went “very far”. He did not name the brand.

He has also stated at that time WAU was still in discussions with other brands. “There is genuine interest there,” Walkinshaw said.

To read the full story, pick up your copy of the latest Auto Action (1818) right now either digitally or at your favourite magazine retailer.

Also make sure you follow us on social media FacebookTwitter, Instagram or our weekly email newsletter for all the latest updates between issues.