Jaguar and Lotus to cooperate for new XE roadster

Lotus doesn’t just make its own cars, its also an engineering firm. Lotus’ hands have given the Delorean its only redeeming quality (the handling), and even turned a Lada Riva into a track-ready racer for the guys at Top Gear. So it’s no surprise that Lotus would give its fellow countrymen at Jaguar the occasional turn of the wrench.

It’s now being reported that Jaguar is using Lotus’ resources in the development of the XE roadster. “They’re sending data to Lotus Engineering on Jaguar’s behalf,” said a well-placed source.

Jaguar is looking to use an aluminum chassis on the future XE. While Jaguar is familiar with using the lightweight alloy on the XJ, Lotus has become an expert at it (including giving Aston Martin a hand with the Vanquish). This would also not be the first time the two companies have teamed up. Lotus was onboard last summer to help create the super sharp, U.K.-only Jaguar XKR-S.