JLR #3 -Jaguar Land Rover CLassic gets a new home to expand it's business further.

• Jaguar Land Rover invests initial £7.5m in brand new premises in the British Midlands for Classic business division
• New headquarters will be based near the new Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) Technical Centre in Coventry
• New premises will enable Jaguar Land Rover Classic to offer an extensive range of cars, services, parts and experiences for Jaguar and Land Rover owners and enthusiasts
• Jaguar Land Rover Classic collection of vehicles to be stored and maintained in new facility

Jaguar Land Rover Classic, the new brand offering classic car sales, restorations, parts supply and driving experiences to Jaguar and Land Rover owners and enthusiasts, will have a new home later this year following the £7.5m acquisition and development of a new headquarters in Coventry, England.

The new Classic headquarters is planned to open early in 2017, and will be based near to the Jaguar Land Rover SVO Technical Centre in Coventry – an all-new, £20m hub of specialist vehicle personalisation, assembly and finishing.

Tim Hannig, Director, Jaguar Land Rover Classic, said: “The development of a new home for Jaguar Land Rover Classic in Coventry is hugely significant for owners and enthusiasts of classic Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles.

“In this fantastic new facility we will offer the opportunity for owners and prospective customers to meet with us, review and select the cars or services that meet their personal requirements and then establish a close relationship with Jaguar Land Rover Classic throughout the purchase process and beyond.” 

The expansive new Jaguar Land Rover Classic site will continually feature a selection of cars from the growing Jaguar Land Rover Classic collection, which is made up of a variety of important historic cars from the two great British brands. The Classic business will continue to offer customers the opportunity to experience some of these notable cars through its Classic Drives programme: http://www.jaguar.co.uk/about-jaguar/jaguar-classic/classic-driving.html

Customers will also be able to view and buy Jaguar and Land Rover Classic vehicles, which are restored through programmes like Land Rover ‘Reborn’*. Other models will also get a   similar treatment, allowing customers to experience classic Jaguars and Land Rovers as they were when they were first manufacture

Jaguar Land Rover announces rebranded Jaguar Land Rover Classic business, for parts, service, hiring and more.

• Jaguar Land Rover announces rebranded Jaguar Land Rover Classic business
• Formerly known as Jaguar Land Rover Heritage, the new business will provide classic cars, services, parts and experiences
• Renaming of business division better reflects Jaguar Land Rover’s capabilities and expertise

Jaguar Land Rover is delighted to announce the renaming of its Heritage business to Jaguar Land Rover Classic. The rebranded division will continue to provide cars, services, parts and experiences for Classic Jaguars and Land Rovers and their owners.

Tim Hannig, Director, Jaguar Land Rover Classic, said: “Renaming the rapidly growing global business to Jaguar Land Rover Classic best reflects the division’s overall capabilities in providing the best cars, services, parts and experiences for our customers. We aim to build an even more successful future by celebrating and nurturing Jaguar and Land Rover’s past.”

Jaguar Land Rover Classic can now accommodate full restorations of classic vehicles at its UK sites, as well as providing a repair and maintenance service for customers.

Jaguar Classic will continue to use the historic Browns Lane facility, where the six continuation Lightweight E-types were built and a newly developed Land Rover  Classic workshop at Solihull for the restoration of Land Rovers. Fully factory restored Jaguars and Land Rovers are now also available for purchase.

Jaguar Land Rover Classic Parts supplies genuine parts for models whose range has been out of production for over a decade. 

The parts catalogue has over 30,000 individual and guaranteed parts, available to order from Jaguar Land Rover’s global retail network. Specialist technical advisors have extensive product knowledge and selected parts are available to order on the day for collection at local retailers.

In addition to cars, services and parts, the Classic business also offers customers the opportunity to experience a selection of Jaguar and Land Rover’s most iconic models with Classic Drives. This is complemented by the second season of the Jaguar Classic Challenge race series for pre-1966 Jaguar models, which commences on 2 May 2016 at Donington Race Circuit in the UK.

The first generation Freelander from Land Rover has been added to it's ever growing portfolio of Heritage models.

• Hugely popular Freelander 1 becomes newest Land Rover Heritage vehicle
• Over 9,000 individual part numbers available for best-selling compact 4WD
• Rapidly became Europe’s best-selling 4WD vehicle for five consecutive years after launch in 1997
• Land Rover Heritage specialises in cars, services, parts and experiences

Produced between 1997 and 2006, the Land Rover Freelander 1 remains one of the brand’s best-selling models and is now officially a Land Rover Heritage vehicle. Land Rover Heritage specialises in cars, services, parts and experiences for classic Land Rover models and the Freelander 1 becomes the brand’s eighth Heritage model. 

The others are Series I, II and III, Range Rover Classic and P38 Range Rover plus Discovery 1 and 2.

A Heritage model is defined as a product that has been out of production for longer than 10 years and the Freelander 1 was first produced in 1997 and its production run ended nine years later in 2006 when Freelander 2 replaced it. Ever since production of Freelander 1 concluded, Land Rover continued to support owners through the supply of spare parts. Now, owners will be supported by the brand’s Heritage experts and ensure loyal owners continue to enjoy their vehicle for many years to come.

Over 9,000 individual Land Rover Heritage Part numbers are available for the Freelander 1 and it adds to the brand’s comprehensive parts catalogue, which already features over 33,000 items for both Jaguar and Land Rover Heritage vehicles.

Tim Hannig, Director, Jaguar Land Rover Heritage, said: “With the addition of the Freelander 1 as a Heritage model, Land Rover is reaffirming its support and commitment to its loyal customers by providing exceptional cars, services, parts and experiences for models more than 10 years out of production. Genuine Land Rover Heritage Parts for Freelander 1 have been engineered and tested in extreme conditions. As such it gives our customers total peace-of-mind that their vehicles are maintained to the highest possible standards.”

When it was launched, the Freelander broke the mould by pioneering the compact premium 4x4 class and at the time had 16 patented features including Hill Descent Control (HDC), Immediate Reduction Drive (IDR), a viscous-coupling (VCU) and an innovative ABS system designed specifically for off-road situations.

Annual Land Rover Fest to showcase Discovery number 1.

This year’s Eastnor Land Rover Show will celebrate the 25^th anniversary of the Land Rover Discovery with a very special model – the very first off the production line in 1989 when it returns to Eastnor Castle’s Deer Park on the early dates of 24^th and 25^th May.

The three door estate Discovery with a four cylinder diesel turbo direct injection engine has the registration mark F981 ENV and is just one of the vehicles on the Land Rover Experience Eastnor stand at the two-day show.

Along with other celebrated Land Rovers, Land Rover Experience Eastnor will also showcase its Mini Terrapod demonstration unit and have a range of miniature Land Rovers for those children under 10 years to enjoy. 

With Eastnor Land Rover Show held at the ancestral home of Land Rovers off road testing ground, Land Rover Experience is offering visitors can enjoy a self-drive session – be it the scenic route or, for the more experienced off-roaders, the adventurous trail into the depths of the Eastnor Estate. Each session costs £55 and must be booked in advance by calling Land Rover Experience Eastnor on 01531 638779.

Come for the day or for the entire weekend to soak up the electric atmosphere of this event as the show offers excellent camping facilities as well as campers enjoying live music, licensed bar and good food - all in the company of other Landy enthusiasts. Camping is available on Friday 23rd, Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th with the site including a separate family campsite area.

Advanced tickets start from £10 per adult and a family can take advantage of a weekend of camping and entertainment from as little as £50. Children under the age of 15 years can visit for free with each paying adult and car parking is free.

Eastnor Land Rover Show is open from 9am until 5pm on Saturday 24^th and Sunday 25^th May 2014. For more information on Eastnor Land Rover Show visit www.eastnorlandrovershow.com

Land Rover Freelander set to become a Tata

The current Land Rover Freelander is set to live on as the basis for a new Tata SUV, when the outgoing SUV is replaced later this year.

When production of the current Freelander ends by the end of 2014 to make way for a new model in the Discovery family, some of its tooling will be shipped to India and its L359 platform used to underpin a new Tata SUV, according to Autocar’s sister publication Autocar India. 

The Economic Times of India reports that a team of 45 engineers are already working on the new SUV, with a targeted launch date of 2016. Around half of the current Freelander is set to be changed for the Tata SUV, and the new model will be built to meet Jaguar Land Rover’s quality standards.

The new SUV is codenamed Q5. It is set to be a five-seater with a seven-seat option, and be priced at around £20,000.

That’s around double the price of the firm’s slow-selling current range-topping crossover, the Aria, with the Q5 marking Tata’s first entry into the premium market. It’s also the first example of platform sharing between Tata and JLR since the former bought the latter from Ford six years ago.

REPORT HERE

Jaguar Land Rover announce significant increases in sales for the month of June

• Jaguar Land Rover North America sales increase 10 percent for June 2013: best combined June sales since 2007
• Jaguar U.S.  boasts sales increase of 59 percent for the month of June
• Full month of Jaguar F-TYPE sales adds 417 units; best Jaguar June sales performance since 2006
• Land Rover U.S. sales increase 9 percent YTD
• Land Rover's Range Rover up 23 percent; best sales month for Range Rover since June 2011

Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported June 2013 U.S. sales: Jaguar sales were 1,637 units, 59 percent up from 1,030 units in June 2012; Land Rover sales were 3,468 units, 4 percent down from 3,602 units in June 2012. Jaguar Land Rover North America June U.S. sales for both brands hit 5,105 units, a 10 percent increase from 4,632 in June 2012.

Year to date through June, Jaguar Land Rover North America is up 12 percent, with Jaguar up 20 percent and Land Rover up 9 percent.

"June has proven to be a remarkable month for the Jaguar brand and its new product lineup featuring the F-TYPE," said Andy Goss, President, Jaguar Land Rover North America.  "Both brands are in an ideal position for growth as the all-new Range Rover Sport is arriving in showrooms this fall and Jaguar will continue to expand its product offering with the XJR and XKRS-GT."

U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS

Land Rover

For the month of June, the volume leader was the all-new Range Rover with 902 sales, an increase of 23 percent from 734 sales in June 2012. Range Rover Evoque continues to grow, with an increase of 19 percent to 790 units from 663 units in June, 2012.  Range Rover Sport is down 28 percent for the month of June. The all new Range Rover Sport goes on sale this fall.

For Land Rover, 2013 YTD sales of 22,984 are the highest first six months in the history of the brand in the United States.

Land Rover's 2013 model year line-up features five models: The 240-hp 2.0 liter powered LR2 and Range Rover Evoque; the LR4 powered by the 375-hp 5.0 liter V8; the Range Rover Sport and Range Rover, both available with the Naturally-aspirated 375-hp V8 and 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. For MY14 both the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport will come equipped with a choice of supercharged 340-hp 3.0 liter V6 or 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains.

Jaguar

For the month of June, the Jaguar XF continues to be the volume and growth leader with 634 units sold, up 30 percent from 489 sales in June 2012. Year to date, Jaguar sales are 7,798, up 20 percent from 6,506 sales, with the XF sales increasing on the appeal of new powertrains and All Wheel Drive.

After its first full month of retail, the new Jaguar F-TYPE two seat convertible sports car adds sales of 417 units.

At the 2013 New York International Auto Show, Jaguar debuted two new models, the 550-hp Jaguar XJR and Jaguar XKR-S GT, expanding its R performance lineup to six models.

For MY13 the transformed Jaguar U.S. lineup includes:

• Instinctive All Wheel Drive™ - Available on both the XF and XJ
• Supercharged 340hp V6 engines in the XF and XJ
• Turbocharged 240hp four cylinder engine available in the XF
• Eight Speed ZF® Automatic Transmissions on all XF and XJ models
• Auto Engine Stop/Start on select XF and XJ models

Jaguar's 2013 model year line-up features four models: The Jaguar XJ luxury sedan, powered by either the supercharged 3.0 liter V6 in rear wheel or all wheel drive configuration, naturally-aspirated 385-hp 5.0 liter V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8; the Jaguar XF sports sedan powered by the 240-hp 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder,  supercharged 340-hp 3.0 liter V6 in rear wheel or all wheel drive configuration, the naturally-aspirated 385-hp 5.0 liter V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or, in the XFR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains; and the XK coupe and convertible sports cars powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, or for the XKR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. Jaguar also offers its highest performance models ever, the 2013 Jaguar XKR-S coupe and convertible with a 550-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrain.  The 2014 MY Jaguar F-TYPE convertible comes in three variants, 340-hp F-TYPE, 380-hp F-TYPE S and 495-hp F-TYPE V8 S.

Jaguar Land Rover proves again that it can sustain a solid increase in sales, income and profits

• Record sales, revenues and profits
• Retails 374,636, up 22%  
• Revenues £15.8bn, up 17%
• Profit before tax £1,675m, up 11%
• Successful launches of all-new Range Rover, Jaguar XF Sportbrake and new AWD XF and  AWD XJ and several engine derivatives

Jaguar Land Rover Automotive plc has today reported revenues of £15.8bn for the fiscal year ended 31st March 2013, up 17% year on year (£13.5bn last year).

Retail sales increased 22% to 374,636 vehicles, supported by significant product actions including the all-new Range Rover, Jaguar all-wheel drive XF and XJ and the XF Sportbrake. The company generated positive sales growth in all regions: China up 48%, Asia Pacific up 27%, UK up 20%, Europe up 18%, North America up 9% and other overseas markets up 19%.

Profit before tax increased by 11% to £1,675m for the fiscal year (£1,507m last year).

Commenting on the results, Jaguar Land Rover Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ralf Speth said: "The positive result for the financial year demonstrates that we have strong demand for our great, solid product portfolio all around the world.

“During this period Jaguar Land Rover unveiled major new products, the all-new all aluminium Range Rover and the Jaguar Sportbrake, the AWD XF and AWD XJ and the stunning F-TYPE.”

Dr. Speth continued:“Jaguar Land Rover invested significantly in the product creation process, in our advanced manufacturing sites and created more than 3,000 jobs. This commitment is set to continue with a sustained programme of investment which will see us spend in the region of £2.75bn on new product, people and infrastructure in the year to March 2014.”

Jaguar Land Rover US announces increased sales for April

• Jaguar Land Rover North America sales increase 7 percent for April 2013; up 13 percent YTD 2013
• Jaguar U.S. sales increase 6 percent
• Jaguar XF Sedan grows 54 percent on power of All Wheel Drive and new powertrains
• Land Rover U.S. sales increase 8 percent for April 2013; hits all time U.S. YTD high for the brand.
• All new Range Rover sales increase 20 percent for April, 2013

Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported April 2013 U.S. sales: Land Rover sales were 3,543 units, 8 percent up from 3,292 units in April 2012; Jaguar sales were 1,141 units, 6 percent up from 1,073 units in April 2012. Jaguar Land Rover North America April U.S. sales for both brands hit 4,684 units, a 7 percent increase from 4,365 in April 2012.

Year to date through April, Jaguar Land Rover North America is up 13 percent, with Jaguar up 7 percent and Land Rover up 14 percent. For Land Rover, 2013 YTD sales of15, 962 are the highest first four months in the history of the brand in the United States.

"Sales continued to grow in April with solid growth for both Jaguar and Land Rover products," said Andy Goss, President, Jaguar Land Rover North America.  "It is an exciting time for both brands with new products in the showrooms and more to come later this year."

U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS

Land Rover

For the month of April, the volume leader continues to be the Range Rover Sport with 1,305 sales, an increase of 9 percent from 1,199 sales in April 2012. The all new Range Rover Sport goes on sales this fall.

The new Range Rover increased sales 20 percent to 674 units, up from 562 units in April, 2012.

Range Rover Evoque continued to grow, with an increase of 3 percent to 832 units from 806 units in April, 2012.

For Land Rover, 2013 YTD sales of15, 962 are the highest first four months in the history of the brand in the United States.The previous high had been 2006 with 15,034.

Land Rover's 2013 model year line-up features five models: The 240-hp 2.0 liter powered LR2 and Range Rover Evoque; the LR4 powered by the 375-hp 5.0 liter V8; the Range Rover Sport and Range Rover, both available with the Naturally-aspirated 375-hp V8 and 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. For MY14 both the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport will come equipped with a choice of supercharged 340-hp 3.0 liter V6 or 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains.

Jaguar

For the month of April, the Jaguar XF continues to be the volume and growth leader with 709 units sold, up 54 percent from 459 sales in April 2012. Year to date, Jaguar sales are 4,726, up 7 percent from 4,401 sales, with the XF sales increasing on the appeal of new powertrains and All Wheel Drive.

At the 2013 New York International Auto Show, Jaguar debuted two new models, the 550-hp Jaguar XJR and Jaguar XKR-S GT, expanding its R performance lineup to six models.

For MY13 the transformed Jaguar U.S. lineup includes:

• Instinctive All Wheel Drive™ - Available on both the XF and XJ
• Supercharged 340hp V6 engines in the XF and XJ
• Turbocharged 240hp four cylinder engine available in the XF
• Eight Speed ZF® Automatic Transmissions on all XF and XJ models
• Auto Engine Stop/Start on select XF and XJ models

Jaguar's 2013 model year line-up features three models: The Jaguar XJ luxury sedan, powered by either the supercharged 3.0 liter V6 in rear wheel or all wheel drive configuration, naturally-aspirated 385-hp 5.0 liter V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8; the Jaguar XF sports sedan powered by the 240-hp 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder,  supercharged 340-hp 3.0 liter V6 in rear wheel or all wheel drive configuration, the naturally-aspirated 385-hp 5.0 liter V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or, in the XFR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains; and the XK coupe and convertible sports cars powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, or for the XKR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. Jaguar also offers its highest performance models ever, the 2013 Jaguar XKR-S coupe and convertible with a 550-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrain.  The Jaguar F-TYPE convertible will join the lineup in summer of 2013.

THROW BACK THURSDAY 009 - Land Rover celebrates 65 years in style

THROW BACK THURSDAY

Two years ago, Land Rover release the below press release to celebrate the marque's 65th year, and two years later, we see that the brand back then, is so far removed from what we have today, and into the future, with new models already here, about to be launched, and products undergoing development now, the future for Land Rover is as secure now, as it has ever been, and is a brand that  others can only dream of emulating.

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• April 30th marks Land Rover’s 65th anniversary
• Celebratory Defender LXV Special Edition launched
• Special event showcases 65 years of Land Rover innovation
• Most significant collection of Land Rovers ever including 130 heritage vehicles at  
• Packington Estate; the original testing ground for Land Rover

This week, Land Rover will mark 65 years of technology and innovation with a celebratory event at Packington Estate near Solihull; Land Rover’s first off-road proving ground.

To celebrate the 65th Anniversary on 30th April 2013, Land Rover will launch a Special Edition Defender – the ‘LXV’. Since its inception, the Defender has now sold in excess of two million units. In the UK, 65 Defender LXVs will be available in 90” Hard Top form. The LXV is based on the standard Land Rover Defender Hard Top and is equipped with the 2.2-litre diesel engine and 6-speed manual transmission, producing 122PS@3,500rpm of power and 360Nm@2,000rpm of torque.

This striking Special Edition sports 16-inch Sawtooth alloy wheels and comes in Santorini Black with contrast Corris Grey roof, grille, headlight surrounds and facia. The interior boasts exclusive full leather seats with LXV embossed front headrests and unique orange contrast stitching on the seats, steering wheel and centre cubby compartment to complement exterior LXV decals. A union flag decal is located on the rear of the vehicle. Pricing in the UK will start from £28,765.

Over 130 heritage Land Rover vehicles will attend the celebratory event at Packington Estate which was the testing ground for the original 1947-48 Land Rover prototypes through to the Range Rover development vehicles of the late 1960’s and early 70’s. These vehicles will showcase key milestones in Land Rover’s 65-year history and also some 4x4 world firsts such as anti-lock brakes, adjustable air suspension, Electronic Traction Control, Hill Descent Control, Terrain Response® and Stop/Start technologies.

The vehicles on display will demonstrate Land Rover’s legendary breadth of capability, with ploughing, emergency service, military, expedition, royal and concept vehicles all firmly positioning Land Rover as the world’s most versatile vehicle. They will sit alongside Land Rover’s current model line-up – the Defender, Discovery, Freelander, All-New Range Rover, All-New Range Rover Sport and Range Rover Evoque – and include the brand’s latest technological innovations in the form of the new Electric Defender research vehicle and the world’s first 9-speed transmission for a passenger car.

In a nod to the brand’s rich heritage in the provision of adapted vehicles for military use, a cake in the shape of the very first Land Rover nicknamed ‘HUE’ will be flown in by special delivery in a Lynx helicopter by a member of the ‘Black Cats’ Royal Navy display team,  renowned for thrilling audiences with their dynamic air displays.

John Edwards, Land Rover’s Global Brand Director says: “Land Rover is celebrating 65 years of proud heritage. It is in fact a dual celebration, as March saw Land Rover deliver the strongest ever monthly and quarterly sales performance in its history.

“Since 1948, every component in our vehicles has been designed and engineered with intent and Land Rover continues to this day, to build the world’s most capable all-purpose vehicles. A blend of refinement, performance and unmatched all-terrain capability make Land Rover vehicles distinctive and unique, ready to tackle the world’s most challenging and inhospitable terrain.”

John Edwards continues: "The all-new Range Rover and Range Rover Sport are the result of unprecedented investment in technology, in engineering and in our manufacturing facilities to produce the world’s first SUVs with a lightweight aluminium body structure. Investing in innovation has always been the lifeblood of Land Rover and we will continue to develop innovative new technology and sustainable motoring solutions for the future, whilst retaining the class-leading and legendary breadth of capability that Land Rover’s heritage is built upon."

Jaguar Land Rover posts increased sales in all sectors

• Land Rover posts highest monthly retail sales in its 65 year history
• Land Rover sold 14,268 cars, up 12% year on year
• Jaguar UK sold 3,505 cars, up 20.6% year on year
• Success driven by strong new product and model year updates

Jaguar Land Rover UK has reported its highest sales month ever in March, owing to desirable new product and continued strong demand. Jaguar Land Rover sold 17,773 vehicles in the UK in March, compared to 14,789 in March 2012 - an increase of 20%.

Land Rover’s sales success was led by the all-new Range Rover and Land Rover Freelander which were up 43% and 45% respectively with the Range Rover Evoque continuing to perform strongly up 9%.

Jaguar’s UK sales increase was driven primarily by the new XF Sportbrake, which accounted for almost 23% of Jaguar’s overall UK sales in March. Sales of the Jaguar XF saloon are consistent with figures for March 2012, indicating XF Sportbrake buyers are new to the Jaguar brand. With first deliveries to customers of the new Jaguar F-TYPE sports car scheduled for late April, Jaguar expects to welcome more and more customers to the brand in 2013.

The all-new Range Rover has been particularly well received with sales order books filling up quickly. In addition, reaction to the revised 13 MY Land Rover Freelander launched in quarter four of 2012 has been particularly positive. A combination of revised exterior styling, making the Freelander even sportier, combined with a redesigned interior has maintained its popularity as Land Rover’s entry-level model.

Jaguar Land Rover UK Managing Director, Jeremy Hicks said: “The strong sales performance of Jaguar Land Rover products in March has been driven by new product, considered model year updates and a strong luxury sector performance.

“The demand for the all-new Range Rover has been extremely encouraging and customers across the country are now receiving their new cars. We have also been fully prepared for the extreme weather conditions, with the Freelander Black and White special edition selling out very quickly and contributing to the rise in registrations.

“Jaguar UK sales are up 24% year to date and Land Rover UK up 17%. With the market launches of the all-new Range Rover Sport, Jaguar F-TYPE and Jaguar XJR still to come in 2013, Jaguar Land Rover UK is in a very strong position.”

Jaguar and Land Rover increase sales YOY with highest records beaten.

• Jaguar Land Rover North America sales increase 4 percent for March 2013; best JLR March sales since 2006
• Jaguar U.S. sales increase 7 percent; highest monthly sales volume in last 30 months
• Land Rover U.S. sales increase 3 percent for March 2013; best March in the history of the brand in the U.S.
• Jaguar XF (+30%) and Range Rover Evoque (+47%) power U.S. March sales growth
• Range Rover Evoque establishes a new monthly sales high
• Land Rover sets record for its highest U.S. Q1 sales ever

Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported March 2013 U.S. sales: Land Rover sales were 4,314 units, 3 percent up from 4,199 units in March 2012; Jaguar sales were 1,408 units, 7 percent up from 1,321 units in March 2012. Jaguar Land Rover North America March U.S. sales for both brands hit 5,722 units, a 4 percent increase from 5,520 in March 2012.

Year to date for the first quarter of the year, Jaguar Land Rover North America is up 14 percent, with Jaguar up 8 percent and Land Rover up 17 percent. For Land Rover, 2013 Q1 sales were the highest Q1 in the history of the brand in the United States.

"We are thrilled that the Jaguar Land Rover business had such a robust kick off to the spring selling season with our best March in seven years," said Andy Goss, President, Jaguar Land Rover North America. "Jaguar had its best month in over 2 years on renewed interest in the XF sedan, now available with a range of 4, 6, and 8 cylinder engines, and rear and all wheel drive. Land Rover continues its U.S. growth streak with its best Range Rover Evoque month ever, helping it increase for the month, and set a new record for the best first quarter in the history of the brand in the U.S."

U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS

Land Rover

For the month of March, Range Rover Evoque established a new monthly sales record of 1,157 units, an increase of 47 percent from 785 units in March, 2012.  The volume leader continues to be the Range Rover Sport with 1,386 sales, an increase of 2 percent from 1,356 sales in March 2012.

For the first quarter 2013, Land Rover reached 12,419 units, its best Q1 sales in the history of the brand in the United States (previous high was 11,298 units in 2006). Quarterly sales increases came from LR2, Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Sport and Range Rover.

At the 2013 New York International Auto Show, Land Rover debuted the All New 2014 MY Range Rover Sport, going on sale this fall.  The new Range Rover Sport, built on a weight saving aluminum architecture, will join the recently launched Range Rover and Range Rover Evoque in the brand's portfolio of all new Range Rover SUVs.

Land Rover's 2013 model year line-up features five models: The 240-hp 2.0 liter powered LR2 and Range Rover Evoque; the LR4 powered by the 375-hp 5.0 liter V8; the Range Rover Sport and Range Rover, both available with the Naturally-aspirated 375-hp V8 and 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. For MY14 both the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport will come equipped with a choice of supercharged 340-hp 3.0 liter V6 or 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains.

Jaguar

For the month of March, the Jaguar XF was the volume and growth leader with 800 units sold, up 30 percent from 614 sales in March 2012. Year to date, for Q1, Jaguar sales are 3,585, up 8 percent from 3,328 sales, with both XF and XJ sedan sales increasing on the appeal of new powertrains and all wheel drive.

At the 2013 New York International Auto Show, Jaguar debuted two new models, the 550-hp Jaguar XJR and Jaguar XKR-S GT, expanding its R performance lineup to six models.

For MY13 the transformed Jaguar U.S. lineup includes:

• Instinctive All Wheel Drive™ - Available on both the XF and XJ
• Supercharged 340hp V6 engines in the XF and XJ
• Turbocharged 240hp four cylinder engine available in the XF
• Eight Speed ZF® Automatic Transmissions on all XF and XJ models
• Auto Engine Stop/Start on select XF and XJ models

Jaguar's 2013 model year line-up features three models: The Jaguar XJ luxury sedan, powered by either the supercharged 3.0 liter V6 in rear wheel or all wheel drive configuration, naturally-aspirated 385-hp 5.0 liter V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8; the Jaguar XF sports sedan powered by the 240-hp 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder,  supercharged 340-hp 3.0 liter V6 in rear wheel or all wheel drive configuration, the naturally-aspirated 385-hp 5.0 liter V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or, in the XFR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains; and the XK coupe and convertible sports cars powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, or for the XKR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. Jaguar also offers its highest performance models ever, the 2013 Jaguar XKR-S coupe and convertible with a 550-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrain.  The Jaguar F-TYPE convertible will join the lineup in summer of 2013.

More great news from JLR

Jaguar Land Rover is set to deliver a huge boost to the automotive sector by revealing it is doubling the size of its new engine plant in the West Midlands.

The rapidly expanding car giant is going to create 700 extra jobs at its new i54 plant in Wolverhampton by investing £500 million to double capacity – before it has even opened.

Insiders say the move came after global demand has continued to rise since the plans were first announced.

Initially the company said it would invest more than £350 million in the factory, creating more than 700 jobs, but the new plans will now see up to 1,500 jobs created.

An insider told the Birmingham Post: "Sales are going incredibly well. Market share is up and they believe they need to act quickly, even though the first phase is not constructed yet."

The factory on the i54 site, between Wolverhampton and Telford, will build engines for Jaguars and Land Rovers and is expected to be ready to start engine production in 2014.

The Gaydon-based luxury car maker is planning to more than double the number of its vehicles made annually to 600,000 by 2020

Another world's first for Land Rover

• Land Rover announces the latest in 65 years of technical world firsts with the new ZF 9HP transmission
• The world’s first 9-speed automatic transmission results in significant improvements in real world fuel economy
• Lower ratios further enhance Land Rover’s renowned all-terrain and all-weather capability
• Innovative adaptive shift system matches and remembers customer driving style for a tailored driving experience
• Land Rover is lead partner on this project with ZF, world leader in transmission technology

Land Rover will demonstrate the latest in a long line of technical firsts at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show with the announcement of  the world’s first 9-speed automatic transmission for a passenger car.  The ZF 9HP transmission is specifically designed for transverse applications, and is one of the most efficient and technically advanced transmissions ever used in a production vehicle.

Land Rover is the lead partner on the project, working together with ZF which is widely recognised as the world leader in transmission technology.

Increasing the number of gear ratios from six to nine gives significant improvement in fuel economy and a corresponding reduction in CO2 emissions. Smaller ratio steps give improved response during acceleration, improved shift quality, drive and refinement. The higher top gear not only reduces fuel consumption but the lower engine revs improve comfort and reduce noise when cruising at high speed.

The 9HP is extremely robust and perfectly complements Land Rover’s rugged all-terrain ability whilst delivering exceptionally high levels of refinement and efficiency. The lowest ratio in the 9HP is far lower than the existing six-speed transmission and is specifically designed for off-road use, towing and more extreme on-road conditions like gradients and altitude, giving the driver a heightened sense of control.

With extremely fast gear changes described by ZF as being; ‘below the threshold of perception’, the 9HP is not only highly responsive but versatile too. Whereas the existing six-speed transmission makes shifts sequentially, the 9HP has a skip-shift function for much swifter downshifting under rapid deceleration or from greater driver input demands. The torque converter incorporates a multi-stage damper system for smoother pulling away and improved refinement.

“We are extremely excited about the 9HP which has been tailored exactly to dovetail with the unique attributes of our vehicles. It will add another layer of performance, refinement and efficiency, further enhancing Land Rover’s world class abilities,” said John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director.

The innovative adaptive shifting system matches the driver’s mood within seconds, sharpening up during brisk driving then slipping seamlessly into a more economical regime just as quickly when taking a more relaxed approach. Curve Mode, longitudinal acceleration and pedal position all control upshift prevention.

Fast-Off mode measures the rate of throttle release, anticipates further requests by the driver for high power, then holds the gear if necessary. If the driver requests a downshift when the vehicle is travelling too fast, the transmission will remember the request and make the shift when the speed drops to an appropriate level.

The 9HP is a masterpiece of packaging and despite the extra three gear ratios is only 6mm longer and weighs 7.5kg less than the outgoing six-speed transmission. The small package space is achieved by a number of innovative design features including a new hydraulic vane-type pump, which also contributes to improved efficiency, two patented dog clutches replacing bulkier conventional clutch packs, and an Intelligently Nested gear set.

Land Rover was chosen by ZF, one of the world’s most technically advanced transmission manufacturers, to be the lead partner on the 9HP and Land Rover engineers have worked in partnership with ZF engineers to jointly develop the transmission to suit the brand. The Land Rover transmission engineering team is already extremely experienced in engineering ZF products to suit Land Rover vehicles having integrated the 8HP with the Range Rover, Land Rover Discovery 4 and Range Rover Sport. The 9HP is produced at ZF’s Gray Court facility in South Carolina.

JAGUAR LAND ROVER OFF TO A FAST SALES START FOR 2013

Jaguar Land Rover, the UK's leading manufacturer of premium luxury vehicles, sold 34,877 vehicles during the first month of 2013, an increase of 32% versus the same period last year.

January sales were up across every major market with sales up 74% in China, 46% in Asia Pacific, 33% in the UK, 24% in North America and 10% in Europe.

Phil Popham, Jaguar Land Rover’s Director of Group Sales Operations said, “With one of the best month’s sales performances ever, both Jaguar and Land Rover brands have had a very strong start to the year. This reflects the introduction of the all-new Range Rover as well as the 2013 Model Year Jaguar XF and XJ models.”

In January, Land Rover sold 29,118 vehicles (up 31%), with increased sales of Freelander (up 57%), Range Rover (up 52% including prior model), Range Rover Evoque (up 32%), Range Rover Sport (up 17%) and Land Rover Discovery (up 14%).  Land Rover sales were up in all major markets with record January sales in several, including the UK, USA and Germany.  

Jaguar sold 5,759 vehicles in January (up by 40%), with increased sales of the XJ (up 70%) and the XF (up 37%), reflecting strong sales of the recently introduced XF Sportbrake as well as all-wheel drive and smaller engine options. Jaguar sales were up in all major markets.

THROW BACK THURSDAY 005 - Jaguar XF added to the production line in India to join the Freelander

In Our fifth TBT, we revisit the news that had the Jaguar XF being added to the production lines at the recently opened Jaguar Land Rover plant in Pune, India, with a modern plant, and two of the most popular models within the JLR range. 

It was an obvious choice to have these cars made here, the post was originally published on 24th January 2013, so, now over two years later, we can pop back and see that, this plant, has gone from strength to strength, and is producing a significant number of locally sourced cars.

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Jaguar Land Rover is commencing production of the Jaguar XF saloon at its facility in Pune, India, from components supplied from the company’s Castle Bromwich plant in Birmingham, UK.

The initial Pune-built Jaguar XF models will feature the company’s acclaimed 2.2-litre diesel engine, which is coming to the Indian market for the first time. The Jaguars will be built alongside Land Rover Freelander 2 vehicles which have been produced in Pune since May 2011

Dr Ralf Speth, Chief Executive of Jaguar Land Rover, said: "India is a market that offers significant opportunities for both the Jaguar and Land Rover brands. The expansion of our Pune operations to include the Jaguar XF will help us realise our ambitions for the Indian market.

“Jaguar Land Rover is committed to building a sustainable, profitable business; increasing our global manufacturing footprint is a key element of our growth strategy. Together with our joint venture manufacturing facility already under construction near Shanghai, expanding our operations at Pune will help us increase the global volume of cars we build, in addition to those produced in the UK.”

Rohit Suri, Vice President, Jaguar Land Rover India said: “The Land Rover Freelander 2 and the Jaguar XF are our best-selling models in India and this has driven the move to build these products locally.

"The Jaguar XF has become very popular with our customers due to its sports car performance, outstanding luxury saloon elegance and contemporary individual styling. Its inspired engineering and technological innovation have helped it to win more than 100 awards internationally. So we are now delighted to offer this car as a locally built product with a new engine for this market, which will enable us to provide our customers with a wider choice of competitively priced models."

Jaguar Land Rover India recently announced a 32% growth in wholesales in 2012 at 2393 cars compared with 1813 cars in the previous year.

Further details, including specifications, are available on the Jaguar India website (www.jaguar.in) and Land Rover India website (www.landrover.in).