David Brown Auto, Britain’s newest arrival in the car-making and coach-building business, has outlined its first vehicle, currently bearing the codename “Project Judi”, ahead of a world premiere at the Top Marques Show, in Monaco, on April 17.
The founder of the company, self-proclaimed “businessperson and car enthusiast” David Brown, who may or may not be related to one-time owner of Aston Martin, Sir David Brown (we emailed the company on the matter and are awaiting a response), said that, the as-of-yet unnamed model will be built around the chassis of the Jaguar XKR, featuring a bespoke and original exterior and interior design.
“As reliability is vital, we chose to adopt a thoroughly proven and acclaimed chassis that not only delivers dynamic performance but also lends itself to our lightweight aluminium design,” said Brown. “Renown for its performance and handling, the XKR has been extensively developed and refined by one of the world’s greatest car manufacturers, making it an obvious choice on which to base our car.”
Power will also come from the Jag’s supercharged 5.0-liter V8 rated for 510PS (503bhp) and 625Nm (461 lb-ft), paired to a six-speed automatic driving the rear wheels for a reported 0-60 mph sprint in 4.6 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.8 sec) and a limited top speed of 155 mph (248 km/h).
In regards to the car’s philosophy, Brown mentioned:
“I wanted all the impact and style of a classic sports car, but with modern capabilities and conveniences. This is what I want in a car, but it’s not something anyone really offers. So, I’ve created it myself. It has been developed using a combination of both traditional and contemporary technology, including the latest in automotive expertise. It has undergone a thorough analysis and development programme, including highly advanced windtunnel and dynamic simulations.”
DAVID BROWN AUTOMOTIVE – “PROJECT JUDI” TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS OUTLINE
Bespoke Aluminium Construction
-Traditional handcrafted panels formed over highly accurate computer-machined bucks
-Close tolerance panel assembly through precision engineering
-Handcrafted panels bonded to machined structural panels for strength and weight reduction
Advanced Engineering
-Structural integrity through the use of state-of-the-art CAD technology
-Optimised accuracy, safety, performance and functionality through engineering and highly sophisticated computer analysis
-Comprehensive aerodynamics and performance simulations
Engine
5.0 V8 510 Supercharged
Capacity (cc) 5,000
Maximum Power EEC-PS (kW) 510 (375)
Maximum torque EEC-Nm (lb. ft.) 625 (461)
Transmission 6-speed automatic
Performance & Economy
Acceleration 0-60 mph (0-100km/h) 4.6 (4.8) seconds
Top speed mph (km/h) 155 (248)
Combined mpg (l/100km) 23.0 (12.3)
Carbon dioxide emissions (g/km) 292
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