Jaguar could be planning a major U-turn and introduce hybrid engines, despite pledging to become an electric-only manufacturer alongside a complete brand overhaul.
Fresh reports from The Times suggest that Jaguar is looking to develop a "part-petrol" car, with claims that engineers are being asked to work on a hybrid engine.
Sources close to the manufacturer have hinted that the additional petrol power could extend the range of the new models from 700km to an impressive 1,100km.
Range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs) have become a more popular concept in recent years, with a small combustion engine giving the vehicle an extra power boost.
Labour remains steadfast in its commitment to banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030. Hybrids will remain on sale until 2035, while only zero emission vehicles will be on the market from this deadline.
The European Union recently amended its vehicle phase-out targets after pressure from governments and manufacturers amid the threat of cheaper Chinese electric vehicles and hesitancy to switch to EVs.
Under new regulations, carmakers will need to comply with a 90 per cent tailpipe emissions reduction target from 2035 onwards.
The remaining 10 per cent will be made up of e-fuels and biofuels, allowing for plug-in hybrids, range extenders, mild hybrids and ICE vehicles to "still play a role beyond 2035".
Reports suggest that Jaguar could be looking to build an electric car with a petrol range-extender
|JAGUAR
While JLR declined to comment on the reports, The Times stated that new Jaguar cars being introduced later this year will be all-electric.
Despite this, a range of other engine options were "in the early stages of development".
As part of the manufacturer's new "Copy Nothing" ethos, the Gaydon-based automaker unveiled fresh branding, which provoked ire from fans and critics alike.
Jaguar axed its traditional look for adverts starring models in colourful outfits and bold hairstyles, with many criticising the brand for failing to feature any vehicles in the promotional material.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Many social media commenters were critical of Jaguar's rebrand | JAGUARCommentators, including Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and US President Donald Trump, attacked the brand overhaul, describing it as "woke" and "stupid".
The President reignited the controversy in recent months after going on a social media tirade in which he slammed Jaguar and defended Hollywood superstar Sydney Sweeney.
When Jaguar finally launched the Type 00 concept car at Miami Art Week, opinions were split again after the brand ditched its iconic "Leaper" bonnet topper and the "Growler" logo.
While Jaguar dealt with backlash for its design choices, the Type 00 delivered impressive specifications, including a 500-mile battery range.
The Jaguar SS and Jaguar Type 00 were displayed in front of the Chancery Rosewood last month
| JAGUARThe manufacturer has continued to display the Type 00 across the globe ahead of its further electric plans.
It recently exhibited a limited edition "London Red" version of the electric vehicle outside the Chancery Rosewood, alongside its first model, the SS Jaguar.
Barry Keoghan, Jamie Dornan, Zoe Saldana and other A-list stars were spotted arriving at Paris Fashion Week in the Jaguar Type 00.