General Information

General Information

Introduction
The all-new Jaguar XK Aluminium is unique in the industry as a complete Aluminium monocoque body structure, as distinct from an Aluminium spaceframe with separate Aluminium exterior panels. Developed from aircraft industry methods, where strength and light weight are critical, Jaguar's manufacturing process produces a massively strong but very light structure that is both rivetted and epoxy-bonded.

The key to the new XK's character is Jaguar's industry-leading bonded and rivetted aluminium monocoque body structure, introduced with the latest XJ saloons. The aluminium body incorporates the latest thinking in epoxy bonding and riveting techniques to produce a chassis that is very safe and very light. In fact, the new XK's aluminium chassis is significantly lighter and stiffer in both coupe and convertible form than the steel model it replaces. The new coupe chassis is over 30 percent stiffer than the previous XK, while the convertible is an impressive 50 percent. It also offers a 10 percent improvement in power to weight ratio. The XK Aluminium is up to 90 percent stiffer and 180kg lighter than key rivals, with a kerb weight of just 1595kg.

The new XK takes the Lightweight Vehicle concept a step further with extended use of Aluminium castings and extrusions, as well as pressed Aluminium panels. Its remarkable strength and light-weight come from both the way the bodyshell is constructed and the use of new jointing technologies developed by Jaguar and its suppliers.

Jaguar guarantee high quality standards by ensuring that mechanical strength properties are tried and tested in numerous computer simulations, crash tests, by testing materials and by employing sophisticated manufacturing technologies. In the event of repairs it is vital that the production quality standards are upheld. This requires a well-equipped workshop, and places particular emphasis on the qualifications of the workshop technicians. Up-to-date knowledge of current manufacturing technologies and continuous training on new repair methods and techniques are vital for high-quality body repairs. The model-specific repair manuals and the general repair techniques provide valuable support when undertaking body repairs. Always follow the repair instructions published in this manual. Failure to observe this instruction can result in serious impairment of vehicle safety. All specified safety requirements must be met after the work has been carried out.