Jaguar is reviving automotive history with the ultra-exclusive continuation of the XKSS, a vehicle often hailed as the world’s first supercar. Nine meticulously hand-built XKSS models, mirroring the exact 1957 specifications, will emerge from Jaguar Classic, effectively replacing the original cars tragically lost in the Browns Lane factory fire.
Tim Hannig, Director of Jaguar Land Rover Classic, emphasizes the XKSS’s profound legacy: “The XKSS occupies a unique place in Jaguar’s history and is a car coveted by collectors the world over for its exclusivity and unmistakable design.” He further adds, “Jaguar Classic’s highly skilled team of engineers and technicians will draw on decades of knowledge to ensure each of the nine cars is completely authentic and crafted to the highest quality. Our continuation XKSS reaffirms our commitment to nurture the passion and enthusiasm for Jaguar’s illustrious past by offering exceptional cars, services, parts and experiences.”
Originally destined for the American market, only sixteen XKSS models were completed before the devastating fire in 1957 halted production. Now, nearly six decades later, Jaguar is set to complete the envisioned run, constructing the nine ‘lost’ XKSS sports cars for a select group of discerning collectors and Jaguar enthusiasts.
Leveraging the expertise honed during the acclaimed Lightweight E-type project, the construction of these ultra-exclusive continuation models will take place at Jaguar’s new ‘Experimental Shop’ in Warwick. Each Jaguar XKSS supercar will be painstakingly crafted to the precise specifications of the original 1957 vehicles, with every facet receiving full Jaguar certification. Reflecting its exclusivity and historical significance, the price for each model will exceed £1 million.
The remarkable story of the XKSS is intrinsically linked to Jaguar’s dominant racing pedigree. Following Jaguar’s consecutive victories at the legendary Le Mans 24 Hours race in 1955, 1956, and 1957 with the formidable D-type, Sir William Lyons made a pivotal decision on January 14, 1957. He resolved to convert the remaining 25 D-type chassis into road-going versions. This visionary move resulted in the creation of what many consider the world’s first supercar – the Jaguar XKSS.
These modifications from the D-type racer to the XKSS road car included the implementation of a taller windscreen for enhanced visibility and weather protection, the addition of a passenger side door for improved accessibility, the removal of the central partition between the driver and passenger, and the iconic deletion of the signature fin positioned behind the driver’s seat.
Deliveries of the continuation Jaguar XKSS supercars are scheduled to commence in early 2017, marking a historic moment for Jaguar and supercar aficionados worldwide.
