Proposed Jaguar XK convertible modified with Parallel Architecture, incresing rear passengers habitability, and improving the vehicle dynamics and aerodynamics. Original model is equipped with a V8 engine placed longitudinally. For a Parallel Architecture configuration the engine would have to be replaced by an inline 6. With the proposed Parallel Architecture, it would improve its aerodynamics and dynamics, rear passengers habitability and driverĀ“s visibility.
Parallel Architecture is defined because the engine is placed inside the central dashboard, in Parallel with the driverĀ“s legs. In order to fit into this narrow space, the engine has to be inline, placed longitudinally in the car, and with all its auxiliary elements placed in series with the engine. In the top central dashboard, there is an access to the cylinder heads area when needed, but all typical maintenance work in the engine is done from the bonnet, as in normal cars.
Parallel Architecture is defined because the engine is placed inside the central dashboard, in Parallel with the driverĀ“s legs. In order to fit into this narrow space, the engine has to be inline, placed longitudinally in the car, and with all its auxiliary elements placed in series with the engine. In the top central dashboard, there is an access to the cylinder heads area when needed, but all typical maintenance work in the engine is done from the bonnet, as in normal cars.
Here we can see the main differences between the original model and the proposed designed in base to Parallel Architecture, in the relative positions of the driver, the engine and the windscreen.
Here we can see the original model V8 engine, and its relative position to the front axis and the windscreen; as we can see, even in this RWD sports car half of the engine, and its weight, is still placed in front of the front axis, very exposed to any small collision and limiting the aerodynamic design of the frontal area.
Here we can see an inline-6 engine from BMW, similar to the one the one that could be used with a Parallel Architecture design; cleamanifolds and auxiliaries, we can appreciate how narrow an inline engine can be and the possibility of placing it in Parallel with the driverĀ“s legs.
Topview of a car with Parallel Architecture, showing the inline engine placed in Parallel with the driverĀ“s legs and the windscreen moved forward, leaving the engine below the central dashboard. An removable cover on the top of the dashboard would allow access to the elements at the engine head area.
