Engineering news
A new version of the much-loved Jensen Interceptor sports car is to be produced on the site of one of the UK's most famous motor plants.
UK automotive company CPP Global Holdings had already said it wasbringing manufacturing back to Jaguar's former Browns Lane site in Coventry.
Today, CPP said it would engineer, develop and build an all-new Jensen Interceptor, with deliveries to customers beginning in 2014.
The announcement is a further boost to the UK motor industry following yesterday's news that Jaguar Land Rover was investing £355 million to build low-emission engines at a business park near Wolverhamptonin the West Midlands, potentially creating thousands of new jobs.
Amuch-admired GT model, the Jensen Interceptor was originally built between 1966 and 1976.
CPP said a team of Coventry-based design consultants employed by the Jensen brand's owners, Healey Sports Cars Switzerland Ltd, had completed the design of the new Interceptor, which has already gained "significant customer interest".
The public unveiling of the Interceptor is planned for late 2012, with deliveries starting in 2014. Annual production numbers and pricingare yet to be confirmed.
Brendan O'Toole, founder and co-owner of CPP, said: "I started my career by restoring bodies and components for classic British sports cars, so for CPP to take the lead role in reviving this iconic brand isvery exciting for the business, and for me personally.
"The Jensen design team has respected and honoured the great heritage and attributes of the original Interceptor, while injecting a contemporary edge and advanced technologies that will ensure it appeals to the passionate, discerning motoring enthusiast of today."
CPP, which already has five existing facilities in Coventry, owns the Bowler off-road vehicle company and is negotiating to acquire sportscar company Spyker.
It is purchasing 23 acres at Browns Lane from regional development agency Advantage West Midlands.