“It was one of the toughest decisions I’ve ever made, especially since my first month, but the XJ was a completely different type of car than the one we were proposing – different in technology, battery chemistry, electronics, size, performance and Market position. It would never have fit in with our plans. “
Living in the UK
“I live in Warwick with my wife, but I have a place in Brittany where I was born. I don’t think I’m a workaholic even though my wife sometimes says otherwise. I get up early at 4:30 a.m. to jog, read books, or just to have some time to myself. I like to be organized and delegate as much as possible. I don’t like doing my teammates’ work. “
The future of the I-Pace
“It is right to think of the I-Pace as a bridging car. I have a 2021 model that I use every day and I think it’s a fantastic car. We will develop it further in the next few years and it will still exist in 2025, although it will not be part of the new model portfolio. “
Leveraging Jaguar’s legacy
“It is true that our new EV models will look ahead, not back, but our legacy must not run away. Just look at what’s going on at Jaguar Classic, a wonderful business. I’ve just written personally to buyers of our paired Jaguars, which cost around £ 1 million for the pair. They are not old people. “
Engagement in motorsport
“We are already heavily involved in Formula E with Jaguar Racing and there is a lot of debate about other activities. I am a supporter of motorsport programs. How can you better demonstrate your excellence in technology and innovation? Where else can you prove your way of thinking, your determination? “
Whether he’s a car lover
“Oh yes I am. But I am a mobility guy, more than just a car type. Fifteen years at Michelin did that with you, and then I was at Faurecia, where we built cars, but from the kitchen. At Renault, I had a lot to do with the Alpine A110, because when [then COO] Carlos Tavares left, I took part of his portfolio. I have an A110 and I really enjoy driving it in Paris too. ”
