Jaguar Follows the Lead of Fisker

It started as a concept at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show. Because hybrid vehicles have gathered the attention of every car blog and technology forum, it was only a matter of time before Jaguar released a foray of its own. The company has a reputation for innovation, which is why the appearance of the C-X16 didn’t surprise too many people; its surprise came months later, when the car truly entered the automotive world. Jaguar may have unveiled it in Germany as a pure concept, a beautiful and environmental piece of machinery, but now the C-X16 is entering production.

Luxury items have been associated with lavishness for years: possessions few people truly need but that everyone would want. They were the opposite of conservative, embracing instead indulgence and status. Outsiders created that reputation, possibly out of jealousy, but the criticism had some validity. A luxury car was rarely purchased with a philanthropic spirit, but that’s changing—a bit. No longer do all luxury car companies design their vehicles for status and power alone; many have been innovators in producing vehicles that protect drivers, their families, and now the earth. Fisker created a lot of buzz when it released its flagship vehicle, the Karma. Though sleek and powerful as any luxury vehicle, it’s a hybrid too, and it was engineered with a strong consideration for the earth. Other companies are following its lead, including Jaguar. Its engineering team created the C-X16 with technology similar to the Karma. With brakes that charge a motor that gives the car an extra boost whenever drivers need, it’s an economical and environmental step toward a better planet. Release dates haven’t been announced, but its release will give green consumers another luxurious choice for the road.