Tata Motors is reportedly stepping up its efforts in model development for its newly acquired Jaguar and Land Rover brands, and hopes to continue the successful design trend established by Jaguar's XF sedan.
In a recent report by Car Magazine, Tata's Chairman, Ratan Tata, confirmed his company's backing of a five-year strategy to develop new models for their two British marques, possibly beginning with a pair of vehicles that includes a sports coupe tentatively dubbed the Jaguar XE, along with the Land Rover LRX.
An entry level XE two-seater and the smaller LRX sport utility -- seen most recently at last month's Geneva Auto Show -- are said be slated for 2012 and 2011 debuts, respectively.
There was no indication on exactly what types of power plants will be used in the upcoming models, other than the engines will be supplied by former owner Ford.
Also said to be in the works for Tata Motors is a possible deal to produce the sturdy Land Rover Defender off road vehicles in India for use by the Indian armed forces. Such a production agreement could prove threatening to the workers at Land Rover's European assembly plants, who have been given commitment from Tata that their jobs will be secured until 2012.
Source: Autocar