The statement was made to a backdrop of a video showing a camouflaged F-Type that insiders say is almost identical to the C-X16 concept that was shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
"We showed the C-X16 concept in September 2011, and the reaction to it has been so positive that we've accelerated our development of an all-new Jaguar sports car," said Hallmark. "That car will be called the F-TYPE, and it will be unveiled in production from later this year. "
Due to the extra engineering work required the F-Type will initially be made available as a convertible with a coupé to follow later. Jaguar says a range of petrol engines will be available - including a new powerplant family, which may point towards a hybrid version previewed by the C-X16 concept.
In choosing the new car's name obvious comparisons with Jaguar's most iconic model will be made but as Ian Callum, Director of Design, points out: " The C-type, D-type and E-type Jaguars were all sports cars that held true to this principle in their era, and the F-Type will hold true to that same principle in its time, a time that is soon to arrive."
Full F-Type technical and range details will be announced later in 2012 before going on sale in mid-2013.
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