Jaguar F-Type: Introducing All-Wheel Drive and Manual Transmission
The F-Type, Jaguar’s all-aluminium sports car, will in 2015 set new standards for dynamics and driver involvement with the addition of intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD) and six-speed manual transmission options, and Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) standard across the range.
The fundamentals remain true to Jaguar’s core DNA of lightweight construction, refined power, perfect proportions and outstanding design – but now the F-Type Coupé and Convertible models deliver an even more rewarding, intuitive drive across a broader range now spanning 14 derivatives.
The latest driveline and chassis technologies heighten the sense of connection between car and driver and enable the F-Type to provide an even greater breadth of dynamic capability.
“Our target with engineering the all-wheel drive F-Type was to maintain that engaging rear-drive character that’s so important to Jaguar sports car DNA, yet offer even greater dynamic capability. The result is a controllable, exploitable and blisteringly fast performance car in all weather and road conditions.
“With the manual transmission option for the V6 F-Types, we’ve gone to intricate lengths to engineer a very precise, technical and responsive level of interaction between the driver, the clutch and the transmission shift mechanism. It’s one for the driving purists – and I count myself as one of them.”
Ian Hoban, Vehicle Line Director, Jaguar
The enhancements broaden the F-Type range to 14 models, from the new 340PS Coupé and Convertible with the supercharged V6 driving the rear wheels through a manual gearbox, to the 550PS F-Type R Coupé and Convertible with the supercharged V8, AWD and eight-speed Quickshift transmission. Transmitting the V8’s 680Nm to the road though all four wheels helps the R models to accelerate from zero to 60mph in just 3.9 seconds on the way to a maximum speed of 186mph.
Integrating AWD required only subtle changes to the F-Type’s acclaimed styling – a prerequisite which Jaguar’s design and engineering teams worked side by side to achieve – and the enhancements give AWD F-Types even more presence.
The aluminium clamshell bonnet gains a deeper central power bulge. Either side are distinctive new vents, positioned further apart and further forward than those of rear-wheel drive F-Types. AWD S models also feature unique 19-inch diamond-turned Volution alloy wheels, while R derivatives feature 20-inch diamond-turned Gyrodyne wheels.
From behind the wheel drivers will quickly notice the extra dimension that AWD adds to performance, handling and road holding in all conditions – and especially on slippery road surfaces.
The AWD system features Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD), a control system designed and developed in-house to exploit the maximum benefits of AWD without any compromise to Jaguar dynamics DNA. IDD is networked to the powertrain, rear differential and centre coupling and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system to provide optimum torque distribution.
Operating on the torque-on-demand principle, the AWD system sends 100 per cent of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels under normal driving conditions. This maintains the F-Type’s rear-wheel drive handling characteristics and also reduces parasitic losses in the drivetrain.
If the system determines that the rear wheels are approaching the limit of available grip the electronically-controlled centre coupling transfers torque to the front axle, improving traction.
Another benefit of AWD is the ability to vary the front: rear torque split to mitigate oversteer during fast cornering by providing yaw damping. Combined with even higher levels of feedback from the new EPAS system – a technology Jaguar’s chassis engineers have spent more than five years perfecting – the F-Type’s performance is now even more accessible and exploitable.
While Jaguar’s eight-speed Quickshift transmission offers an unequalled blend of shift speed, comfort and refinement, there will always be a select group of enthusiasts who want the satisfaction which comes from changing gear manually.
To meet that demand, the F-Type’s engineering team developed a six-speed transmission exclusively for the high-revving V6 and rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration. The short-travel gear lever with a throw of only 45mm, closely-spaced ratios, and pedals perfectly placed for heel-and-toe changes define what for some will be the definitive Jaguar sports car experience.
The F-Type becomes the first Jaguar sports car to use EPAS. Years of development ensure that the technology is now mature enough to deliver the benchmark response and feel expected. And because the system’s electric motor provides power assistance only when needed, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are reduced – by up to 4g/km on the European combined cycle.The Torque Vectoring by Braking (TVbB) function first developed for the F-Type R Coupé is now also standard on F-Type S and available on F-Type. Integrated into the DSC system, selectively braking the inside wheels mitigates understeer, helping the driver to take the ideal line through the bend. TVbB also helps to stabilise the car and minimise steering input during manoeuvres such as emergency lane changes.
Those seeking the ultimate in style and performance will now find it in the new F-Type R Convertible, available in RWD and AWD form and replacing the RWD-only 495PS F-Type V8 S. Jaguar’s renowned 5.0-litre V8 combines direct injection and a twin-vortex supercharger to provide immediate response to the driver’s request for power. With the roof down and an open road, this engine’s unmistakable soundtrack becomes even more exhilarating.
Developing 550PS and 680Nm, the all-alloy quad-cam unit is matched exclusively to the Quickshift transmission and the choice or rear- or all-wheel drive. The extra traction of AWD enables the R Convertible to accelerate from 0-60mph in only 3.9 seconds – matching the R Coupé – before reaching an electronically-limited top speed of 186mph.
Enhancements are not limited to the chassis and driveline technology. The instrument cluster features new dials and gauges. The infotainment system is upgraded too: navigation routing is much faster than before and SD card-based mapping is available for the first time.
And the F-Type now comes as standard with InControl Remote telematics functions, and can be specified with InControl Secure. Should the vehicle be stolen, InControl Secure alerts the driver via a smartphone app and works with law enforcement agencies to locate and recover the vehicle. When away from the vehicle, InControl Remote makes it possible to check information such as the fuel level or the door lock status using a smartphone.
For the ultimate in comfort and convenience, the driver can use a smartphone to start the engine, enabling the climate control system to bring the cabin to the desired temperature before the journey even begins.
Customers who wish to make their F-Type look even more exclusive have the option of a Sport Design Pack: the bespoke splitter, sills, venturi and, for the Coupé, fixed rear spoiler, subtly enhance the styling without affecting the purity of line which sets the F-Type apart in the sports car segment.
Applying composite technologies first developed in motorsport and aerospace, Jaguar has engineered a carbon-fibre roof option for the F-Type Coupé. At just 4.25kg, the carbon-fibre panel is even lighter than the aluminium pressing. The high-gloss lacquer finish leaves the distinctive ‘twill’ weave of the fibres clearly visible.
The new 2016 model year F-Type Coupé range will consist of: F-Type Coupé (340PS, RWD manual / RWD Quickshift), F-Type S Coupé (380PS, RWD manual, Quickshift RWD or AWD), F-Type R Coupé (550PS, Quickshift RWD or AWD).
The new 2016 model year F-Type Convertible range will consist of: F-Type (340PS, RWD manual / RWD Quickshift), F-Type S (380PS, RWD manual, Quickshift RWD or AWD), F-Type R (550PS, Quickshift RWD or AWD).
All-Wheel Drive
Rear-wheel drive feel, all-wheel drive traction
Torque on demand all-wheel drive and Intelligent Driveline Dynamics control maintain the F-Type’s handling balance while making the performance even more accessible – in all weathers
Applying Jaguar Land Rover’s unrivalled expertise in all-wheel drive (AWD) technology to the F-Type makes it the most capable sports car the company has yet produced.
Building on the experience gained from the highly successful AWD XF and XJ, the AWD F-Type shares many of the driveline modules with the saloons but benefits from next-generation control. And whereas the focus for the XF and XJ is on traction, the focus for the F-Type is on ultimate performance and dynamics – in all conditions.
The AWD system is offered in the 380PS V6 F-Type S Coupé and Convertible and 550PS V8 R Coupé and Convertible, all equipped with the eight-speed Quickshift transmission.
The underlying development philosophy for AWD was to maintain the inherent agility and precision of the F-Type’s rear-wheel drive character while delivering the limit traction and handling benefits that torque on demand offers.
“What we require of our AWD system in F-Type is optimal traction in all weather conditions, but preserving the Jaguar DNA and sports car character – that means rear-drive feel and steering without any corruption. The key to this is Intelligent Driveline Dynamics – IDD.
“IDD allows us to provide ‘torque on demand’ – only delivering torque to the front wheels when it’s required to enhance traction. That means we get great steering precision and the efficiency of a rear-drive car, but with additionaltraction via the front wheels precisely delivered to match the driver’s demand, the road surface and the driving situation.”
Russ Varney, Vehicle Programme Director, Sports Cars, Jaguar
Under normal sub-limit driving conditions, 100 per cent of engine torque is sent to the rear axle. When required, the electromechanically-actuated coupling in the transfer case enables smooth transfer of torque to the front axle – the process is virtually transparent to the driver.
Everything under control: Intelligent Driveline Dynamics
To exploit the maximum potential of AWD, the system features Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD). This highly-sophisticated control strategy – developed entirely in-house – is built around a high-level controller managing the interaction of AWD, the rear electronic active differential (EAD) or mechanical limited-slip differential in V6 S models, TVbB, and the Dynamic Stability Control system (DSC).
The decision to develop IDD in-house means complete control of design and calibration. The vehicle attribute team which calibrated IDD for the F-Type is also responsible for DSC, ensuring the best possible interaction between the two systems.
Algorithms within the IDD controller continuously estimate road surface friction. The controller uses measurements from yaw rate, steering wheel angle, wheel speed, lateral and longitudinal acceleration sensors. It also takes into account the Driving Dynamics mode selected by the driver.
The IDD controller and the EAD controller use this data to determine what the vehicle is doing – a so-called state estimate – and the design of the IDD system enables a common state estimate to be used in both controllers.
This detailed monitoring of the vehicle’s dynamics enables optimised torque distribution across the rear axle, and from front to rear, by applying both pre-emptive and feed-back control of the active driveline technologies. The result is improved agility and steering response, and the extra level of control this brings increases driver confidence.
On entering a corner, the TVbB system can mitigate understeer by lightly and selectively braking the inside wheels to keep the car on line. If the car begins to oversteer, torque can be transferred to the front axle, generating a stabilising moment. As a result, entry speeds can be higher, and the driver can apply more power sooner in preparation for corner exit.
Integrating control of these systems within IDD means that their interaction is seamless and virtually transparent to the driver. Another benefit that AWD and IDD bring compared to rear-wheel drive is greater differentiation between Normal, Rain/ice/snow and Dynamic modes – especially with DSC switched off.
With Rain/ice/snow mode selected, the IDD control software is designed to deliver a more AWD-like character than Normal mode, with Dynamic mode providing the most rear-biased character. And because the system is continually updating its estimate of road surface friction, IDD will select the most suitable calibration for any condition.
Visually, AWD models are differentiated by discreet badging and subtle but distinct changes to the F-Types’ award-winning styling.
The aluminium clamshell bonnet gains a deeper central power bulge. As well as giving the F-Type even greater presence, the feature optimises packaging around the powertrain. On either side are new vents: positioned further apart and further forward than those of rear-wheel drive F-Types, they provide an even greater cooling effect.
Unique new 19-inch diamond-turned ‘Volution’ alloy wheels are fitted to AWD V6 S variants, while AWD R models feature 20-inch diamond-turned Gyrodyne alloy wheels.
Beneath the surface, the electronically-controlled dampers feature recalibrated control software, and springs are up to 10% stiffer. Still of dual-rate design, they now operate in the linear range for longer. The front control arm bushes are stiffer too, helping to further improve steering response and on-centre feel.
Meticulous attention to detail during system integration means that the AWD F-Type retains excellent weight distribution characteristics, the balance moving forwards by only 1.2 percentage points compared to the rear-drive models.
Manual Transmission
Engaging, rewarding: A sports car for purists
The F-Type’s six-speed manual transmission has been designed to give enthusiasts the most rewarding driving experience possible. The combination of the free-revving supercharged V6, semi-dry sump gearbox and precise, perfectly-weighted shifts deliver enjoyment on a completely new level
Jaguar’s outstanding Quickshift transmission is still a benchmark for shift speed and refinement but for a select group of enthusiasts around the world, the purest driving experience comes from executing perfectly timed shifts using a manual gearbox.
To meet this demand, Jaguar’s engineers have integrated a highly efficient six-speed transmission into the F-Type’s lightweight aluminium body structure, matched exclusively to the rear-wheel drive 340PS and 380PS V6 powertrains.
“A manual transmission in a sports car is always the purist driver’s choice – and to meet their expectations the manual F-Type had to offer a completely engaging driving experience.
“The short throw of the gear lever, the mechanical quality of the shift, pedal spacing ideally suited to heel-and-toe changes, the tune of the V6 supercharged engine itself – all have been subject to detailed scrutiny to ensure driving a manual F-Type is as fun as it is fast.”
Mike Cross, Chief Engineer, Vehicle Integrity, Jaguar
Everything from the gearbox detent profiles to the shift lever mounting bushes to the shape of the centre console armrest have been optimised to make the driving experience as intuitive, rewarding and enjoyable as possible.
Light, smooth, efficient
Like the Quickshift sequential transmission, the new manual gearbox was developed for the F-Type with experts from ZF. The compact unit features a lightweight aluminium alloy casing and an innovative semi-dry sump lubrication system to improve efficiency.
Instead of relying on the usual splash lubrication method, the F-Type’s gearbox uses a compact mechanical pump driven from the layshaft to spray oil on to the meshing gear teeth, bearings and the synchroniser rings. Providing lubrication only to where it’s needed using a low viscosity oil significantly reduces drag losses. It also means that the gearbox contains just 1.2-litres of fluid, saving weight and improving packaging.
The custom-designed bellhousing contains a dual-mass flywheel for the best possible NVH properties and a single-plate dry clutch optimised for rotational inertia, and therefore reduced shift loads.
Positive, precise and perfectly-weighted changes
Connecting the driver to the gearbox is a shift mechanism which combines the direct, short throw essential to a sports car application with the comfort and refinement demanded by Jaguar customers. Everything from the gearbox itself right the way back to the gear knob influences shift feel, and that’s why every component has been scrutinised in order to ensure that every change the driver makes can be perfect.
The F-Type’s rod linkage provides the most direct connection between the gear lever and the selector forks. Every mounting bush has been carefully tuned to strike the perfect balance between shift feel and isolation from unwanted vibration. Optimisation of the detent profiles gives smooth, precise changes without the high peak loads which result in notchiness when going into gear. A throw of just 45mm ensures fast, precise shifts.
Extensive development and testing results in a gear knob set at the ideal height and position for road and track driving. Such is the attention to detail that the centre console armrest has been reprofiled for manual transmission models to allow for the optimum movement of wrist, elbow and shoulder during each gear change. To satisfy the most demanding enthusiasts, the brake and throttle pedals are ideally positioned for heel-and-toe shifts.
The perfect match: Supercharged V6
The manual transmission is paired exclusively with Jaguar’s all-aluminium 3.0-litre V6. This supercharged direct-injection unit, in both 340PS and 380PS ratings, is defined by its linear power delivery and willingness to rev and the new gearbox makes it even more enjoyable to exploit the engine’s full performance potential. And because the manual demands – and rewards – greater driver involvement, the V6 gains a unique calibration to enhance the driving experience while maintaining the F-Type’s duality of character.
Under hard acceleration the engine has been tuned to respond even more directly to throttle pedal inputs. Coupled with the reduced rotational inertias this enables the enthusiast driver to execute fast, precise heel-and-toe downshifting – without the aid of an auto throttle blip function.
The engine ECU provides a speed matching function on upshifts, making each gear change smoother. An anti-stall function makes the F-Type effortless to drive at low speed.
Electric Power ASSISTED Steering
Steering feel redefined
The F-Type’s steering system still sets the benchmark for feel and response and the adoption of electric power assistance also cuts CO2 emissions
Steering response and feel are core elements of Jaguar’s brand DNA. These are key to the ‘50 metre feel’ – what the customer experiences when driving a car out of the dealership for the first time. This initial impression has to tell them everything they need to know about how the car will behave on the road.
Jaguar sports cars have always relied on hydraulic power assistance because it has previously delivered the most natural, intuitive performance. Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) offers far greater tuning potential and better energy efficiency but Jaguar’s engineers have not considered the technology sufficiently mature – until now.
“We felt very strongly that the efficiency gains offered by Electric Power Assisted Steering should be matched by levels of feel, feedback and responsiveness that would enhance the
F-Type driving experience still further.
“We’re satisfied that our EPAS system outperforms anything we’ve previously offered, providing the agility and interaction you’d demand of a Jaguar sports car."
Tim Clark, Chief Technical Specialist, Jaguar
The EPAS system fitted to the latest F-Type is the result of R&D work which began in 2008. The years of development and tuning have ensured that this steering system delivers the immediate response and connected feel expected from a Jaguar sports car.
State-of-the-art control algorithms ensure that the F-Type’s steering is free from any trace of the synthetic feel which can taint some EPAS systems. And so intelligent is it that the software even compensates for differences in ambient temperature, ensuring absolute consistency in the feedback the driver gets through the wheel.
Hardware contributes to the improvements too: increasing the torsional stiffness of the steering column intermediate shaft helped to deliver the on-centre feel needed to achieve the demanding attribute targets set at the start of the programme.
Unlike hydraulic systems, which drain power from the engine from the moment it starts, EPAS only uses energy when assistance is actually needed, thereby reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 4g/km on the European combined cycle.
These improvements make the lightweight aluminium F-Type even more efficient, and help the 340PS Coupé and Convertible with Quickshift transmissions to become the first sub-200g/km Jaguar sports cars.
Infotainment and connectivity
The new InControl Touch infotainment systems offer all the functionality you need, from 3D maps and smartphone apps to surround sound systems and even remote engine starts
The F-Type offers a connected drive in every sense. Just as the chassis and the powertrains are engineered to respond immediately – and exactly as the driver expects – the infotainment systems have been developed to be as intuitive to use as possible.
Three systems are available: InControl Touch with 180W audio or 380W Meridian audio respectively, and InControl Touch Plus, which brings Meridian’s outstanding 770W surround sound technology into the cabin.
All feature 8-inch capacitive touchscreens with Jaguar’s new user interface. The crisp, clear graphics make them quick and easy to use, and gesture controls such as ‘swipe’ to skip tracks or flip pages, and ‘drag’ to scroll through maps, make operation even more intuitive.
Navigation data entry is much quicker than before and routes are calculated faster too. High quality rendered 3D images of junctions, cityscapes and even distant terrain make following route guidance much easier, helping drivers to keep their eyes on the road. The system can also be used to log journey details, showing duration, average speed, distance, fuel economy and a GPS map of the route.
Another feature which avoids distraction is text-to-voice: incoming SMS messages can be read out on the move, leaving the driver to concentrate on driving. When the vehicle is stationary, the touchscreen can be used for writing messages, or – for extra convenience – there’s a set of concise templates to choose from.
The F-Type ensures that drivers stay connected too, thanks to InControl Apps. Connecting Apple and Android smartphones using the dedicated USB port gives seamless access to compatible apps stored on the devices through the vehicle’s touchscreen.
Jaguar InControl Remote technologies come as standard and have been created to improve safety, convenience and peace of mind. Should the worst happen and the car be involved in a collision severe enough to deploy the airbags, the F-Type’s integrated telematics module will automatically call the emergency services and notify them of the vehicle’s location. This feature can also be triggered manually by pressing the SOS emergency call button.
In the unlikely event of a breakdown, F-Type owners can quickly and easily summon Jaguar Assistance simply by pressing a button, or by using the InControl Remote App on their smartphone. This will automatically connect them to the Jaguar Assistance operator, and will also send information on the vehicle’s location and status.
The InControl Remote Premium App allows the driver to interact with their F-Type in a completely new way. Using their smartphone, drivers can see how much fuel is in the tank, if the windows are closed or if the alarm has gone off. Better still, it enables the driver to remotely lock or unlock the car and reset the alarm – from anywhere in the world. The beep and flash feature can help drivers to find the car again – perfect for busy car parks, for example, or crowded city streets.
For unrivalled comfort and convenience, InControl Remote Premium also makes it possible to start the engine remotely. A first in the sports car segment, this feature enables the F-Type’s climate control system to bring the cabin to the desired temperature before the journey even begins.
InControl Secure is also available on all models, and enhances security by providing proactive vehicle monitoring. Should the F-Type be stolen, the tracking service can work with law enforcement agencies to locate and recover the car.
