Jaguar Project 7: 405kW single-seat concept previews F-Type R

The one-off Project 7 design study is a single-seat all-aluminium-bodied roadster based on the new Jaguar F-Type.

Powered by a 405kW/680Nm tune of the 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine from the hardcore XFR-S and XKR-S track weapons, Jaguar says the Project 7 launches from 0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 300km/h - numbers likely to be mirrored by the upcoming F-Type R.

The 40kW/55Nm performance boost over the F-Type V8 S is accompanied by a new ceramic-finished free-flow exhaust system, a 10mm lower ride height and a unique spring/damper tune.

Jaguar vehicle integrity chief engineer Mike Cross said the Project 7 took the agility, immediacy and driving enjoyment of the F-Type to the next level.

“Project 7 has given us a unique opportunity to go that little bit further,” Cross said.

“It’s visceral in every sense – its response, its sound and its sheer performance.”

The Jaguar Project 7’s bespoke exterior gives hints to the future and nods to the past. Carbonfibre is spread generously across the concept’s new front splitter, side skirts and rear diffuser, while a restyled front bumper, chopped windscreen and fairing behind the driver’s head clearly distinguish it from the base F-Type.

Jaguar design director Ian Callum said the Project 7 embodied the “racing-inspired form that designers dream about”.

“It has one purpose: to be driven fast and enjoyed,” Callum said.

“Jaguar sports cars are known for exceptional performance and clean design. Project 7 captures that spirit in its purest form.”

The Project 7 name acknowledges Jaguar’s seven Le Mans victories between 1951 and 1990 – a record for a British manufacturer – while its blue paintwork is reminiscent of the victorious D-Types of 1956 and 1957.