Jensen Interceptor will arrive in 2014
A new Jensen Interceptor will be built in Coventry from 2014, thanks to a deal announced this morning between the brand's owner Healey Sports Cars Switzerland and Britain's very own CPP.
Yep, that's the same CPP which is planning to build the Spyker supercar range (pending an annoying bit of paperwork), that recently bought out Bowler, that has also confirmed a deal with the Zagato design studio, and that has just signed a purchase agreement to redevelop car production facilities at Browns Lane in Coventry. Where's it all going to end, we can't help but ponder...
Well, hopefully with the creation of a thriving, unique and sustainable bespoke car building business that reminds us just a little bit why the Midlands was once the centre of the automotive world. Albeit with a bit of help from some Russian money, courtesy of CPP founder Brendan O'Toole's enthusiastic and enormously well-endowed business partner, Vladimir Antonov.
There's no word on spec or prices yet...
According to CPP, a team of Coventry-based design consultants employed by HSCS has already completed the design of the new Interceptor, and it has already gained 'significant customer interest'. Frankly, if the car ends up looking anything like the renderings supplied with the announcement today, we can see why.
The new Interceptor - echoing the four-seat GT layout of the much-loved original built between 1966 and 1976 - will be based on an all-new aluminium chassis and handcrafted aluminium body, the company says, adding that the public unveiling of the car is planned for late 2012, with deliveries to customers beginning in 2014.
Annual production numbers and pricing are yet to be confirmed, but will be fixed to ensure ultra-exclusivity, runs the press release. So if you're feeling 'ultra exclusive' you'd better get your name down sharpish at www.jensensportscars.com.
...but we love it already! (Don't we?)
"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 is very exciting for the business, and for me personally," says Brendan. "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.
"This work is at an advanced stage, and married to CPP's expert coachbuilding, craftsmanship and engineering skills, the new Interceptor will be an exceptional example of British automotive excellence."
There's not much to add at this stage, except: "Bravo sir, and God save the Queen, cuckoo clocks and perestroika!"
