The McLaren W1, this month’s cover star, is a truly breathtaking automotive marvel. Having just bested the Ferrari F80 at the public launch, it must also have felt good for the British brand to defeat the Prancing Horse in the Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship at the end of 2024.
As we approach the new year, and with the transfer of power in government, the political temperature has become very hot. I’ll share with you something that Jay Leno recently made fun of, which amused me, about Elon Musk joining Donald Trump’s administration, pointing out that he’s sold a lot of Teslas to liberal Californians and thinks Elon is trying to convince conservatives that they’re cool too!
But seriously, electrification is a big topic in the auto industry, and Jaguar’s bold, all-electric lineup, which is scheduled to begin sales in 2026, could be seen as a $1.9 billion gamble as it reinvents its brand. This traditionally right-leaning brand has undergone a massive makeover, with its controversial marketing campaign (which prompted Musk to quip “Do you sell cars?”), logo changes and the launch of a Miami Art Week concept car.
As I see it, Jaguar concluded that there was not enough of its traditional base to buy its cars, so much so that it stopped selling new cars in the UK. The reimagining campaign has upset loyalists, but what if it no longer makes business sense? After the pearl-clutching cry faded away, what Jaguar did was actually very smart…
This bold design will appeal to a younger, affluent demographic, including many professional athletes, which will further enhance its status. I can also see it attracting all genders; I don’t think it was a coincidence that it was released in pink and blue! It generated significant media interest, made its goals very clear, and unveiled a concept car with lines not unlike a Rolls-Royce, for probably less than half the price.
Speaking of which, be sure to check out Gabriel Vega Cortes’ road test of the ultra-luxury Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II and Black Badge in the south of France. We spoke to Hollywood star Patrick Dempsey about his return to racing and his love affair with Porsche, and we also look at the stunning Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.
Happy reading, and drive safe!
charles bradley,
editor
DuPont record
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