Jaguar says that Bertone’s 99 Concept is just not for them
By Andrew, 08 Mar, 2011. 0 Comments
Jaguar B 99 Concept
When Italian design house Bertone was creating the B 99 Concept that previews a potential new entry-level sedan for Jaguar, it focused on interior space. The B 99 is about as long as a BMW 3 series and Mercedes-Benz C class at about 4500mm, but has a wheelbase longer than the 2910mm of the Jaguar XF large sedan. The B 99, at 1950mm wide, is also 75mm wider than the XF to offer limousine-sized interior space. The B 99 uses a full-hybrid power system created by Bertone Energy, the company's new division intended for renewable energy research.
In a phone interview with Automotive News Europe, Bertone chief designer Mike Robinson said the company sought to create a compact sedan that could offer the same roominess of a much larger vehicle. The B 99, to improve accessibility, has no B-pillar and also features rear-hinged rear doors. Robinson said the B 99 was made by Bertone in a deal with Jaguar as a possible replacement for topseller X-Type, which was discontinued in 2009. Jaguar has plans to launch an entry-level sedan in 2013-2014 to increase sales.
With the B 99, Bertone is the sole Italian design house to have conceptualized five distinct Jaguar models. The previous models were the 1957 XK 150, of which just four were built, and three concepts: the 1966 FT, the 1967 Piranha and the 1977 Ascot. And now we have a bad news for Bertone: Jaguar is not quite interested in this concept and says that the car is simply not for them. "It is not our concept. We appreciate the fact that Jaguar is interesting enough for people to do a concept around. It's not that we are offended by it, or against it -- it is just not for us." said Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar's global brand director.
Latest Auto Shows
