The early, big decisions are risky, of course. In the U.S., Jaguar has a dealer density challenge. In many areas of the U.S., where Jaguar is demanded by customers, the nearest dealer may be hundreds of miles away. As for the future at Jaguar, three things seem likely based on off-line conversations with our amiable hosts. First, Land Rover is the most recent addition to the Ford Premier Automotive Group, and it is only 20 miles away from the Coventry Engineering Center.
Collaboration seems natural.
Second, Jaguar sees great opportunities in sourcing technology in Germany. Third, and finally, with respect to the all-important styling challenge of the luxury segment, Jaguar and people in its new design center intend to look outside the auto industry for inspiration. The major question for the corporation, of course, is to what extent Jaguar can help relieve the problems of other Ford platforms in Europe. All Rights Reserved.