The Power Behind Jaguar's Stunning CX 75 was Uncovered by Their Open Innovation Experts - IXC UK

BIRMINGHAM, England, November 8, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Since the 1950s, the automotive industry has dabbled with gas turbine engines for vehicles because the technology is simpler, requires fewer parts, can run on a variety of fuels - including natural gas and bio-fuels - and, most importantly, is a low emission power source. However, until the unveiling of the C-X75 at the recent Paris Motor Show it seemed that they would never be a match for the internal combustion engine.

Jaguar had recognised the technology had strong potential as a complementary technology for their electric vehicle research, and asked Open Innovation experts the InnovationXchange network (IXC UK) to find manufacturers of novel gas turbines small enough to be used in a car - micro gas turbines.

IXC UK set to work interrogating their networks to find suitable companies around the globe. However, ultimately the solution was found to be close to home in the form of a small Staffordshire-based company called Bladon Jets.

IXC UK's Innovation Intermediaries recognised that Bladon's innovative patented technology offered unique advantages and arranged a confidential meeting between the start-up and the automotive legend, ensuring a "safe" environment for a full discussion. It was immediately clear that there was a strong "fit" - both in terms of technology and culture, and compelling reasons to work together.

The meeting helped Bladon Jets accelerate past the milestones set out in their business plan by a good 12 months, and Jaguar had finally found the technology they were looking for, giving them the magic combination of power, reduced weight and lower emissions.

However, there were further barriers to cross: Bladon Jets' turbines could achieve speeds of up to 80,000 rpm, but they needed a manufacturer of equally high speed generators make the micro-jet turbine a practical option.

SR Drives were already known to IXC's network and, due diligence complete, IXC recommended them as a strong candidate.

This three-part consortium received a seven-figure sum from the Technology Strategy Board to help develop the world's first commercially viable and environmentally friendly gas-turbine-driven car.

This led to the unveiling of much lauded Jaguar's C-X75, and to investment in Bladon Jets by Jaguar's parent company, the Tata Group.

Helped by companies like IXC UK, Open Innovation is clearly alive and well and pushing - sometimes accelerating - companies past new horizons.

    http://www.ixc-uk.com

    Howard Farbrother PhD MBA
    IXC Intermediary
    t: +44(0)121-414-8777 (head office)
    e: [email protected]

SOURCE IXC-UK