The Jaguar C-X75, a dream that almost became a reality, has finally been brought to life in a spectacular way. Designed in 2010 by Ian Callum, the C-X75 was supposed to be a revolutionary hypercar, unlike anything else on the road. The original concept was powered by a mind-blowing setup: four electric motors driven by two diesel turbines. It was an engineering marvel, but one that never made it to production. Despite this, the C-X75 became a legend in its own right, getting its moment in the spotlight as the villain’s car in the 2015 James Bond film, Spectre . But even then, it was powered by a more conventional V8 engine, far removed from Callum’s original vision.
Fast forward to today, and Ian Callum has taken that near-mythical concept and transformed it into something closer to his original dream. Working through his design and engineering firm, Callum, he has created what he calls the “ultimate C-X75 commission.” Unlike the first modified stunt car, which was only made street-legal with basic safety and emissions features, this latest version is a complete overhaul. It’s a reimagining of the C-X75 that goes far beyond anything we’ve seen before.
Under the hood, the car now sports a 5.0-liter supercharged V8, sourced from the Jaguar F-Type. But this isn’t just a simple engine swap. The V8 is paired with a sophisticated seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This setup ensures lightning-fast gear shifts and a more responsive throttle, especially when you switch to sport mode. The drivetrain has been tuned for both high-performance and everyday usability. Even the exhaust system is designed for drama, acoustically tuned to roar to life in dynamic mode, creating a driving experience that feels and sounds thrilling.
Callum didn’t just focus on performance, though. The exterior has been given a meticulous makeover. The car is now painted in an elegant Willow Green, and every panel has been adjusted for precision. If you remember the quick-release bodywork and rough finish of the Spectre stunt cars, this version is the polar opposite. Callum’s team put in over 1,000 hours to fix every gap and misalignment, making sure the car looks as good as, if not better than, any modern supercar. Custom touches, like machined aluminum window surrounds, a polished metal grille, and carbon fiber accents, add to the sense of bespoke craftsmanship.
The car also comes with active aerodynamics, which was another major upgrade. Above 37 mph, an active rear wing deploys to provide extra downforce and keep the car stable at high speeds. There’s even an air brake that engages during hard stops, giving the car added safety and performance when you need it most. And because practicality is key for any road-going hypercar, Callum has added a nose lift system, allowing drivers to raise the front end when navigating tricky driveways or speed bumps. The car rides on Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, with 20-inch wheels at the front and 21-inch wheels at the rear.
But perhaps the most impressive transformation is inside the cabin. In the original Spectre stunt cars, the interior was stripped-down and functional, full of exposed wires and makeshift controls. Callum has replaced all of that with a luxurious, hypercar-quality interior. Dark green and cream leather dominate the cabin, with a beautifully split color scheme that gives the space a sophisticated look. There are modern analog gauges, along with a custom dashboard featuring three rotary controls that integrate with touch screens for a sleek and futuristic feel.
The new steering wheel is a work of art, designed specifically for this car. There’s Apple CarPlay, wireless phone charging, and a high-end bespoke sound system. Even the smaller details have been meticulously designed: the air vents, for example, are precision-engineered, and there are 3D-printed cupholders that add a playful yet high-tech touch. The seats are also a highlight, featuring a unique “waterline” design that gives them a sense of motion even when the car is parked.
Ian Callum has spoken fondly of the C-X75, calling it “the one that got away.” The car was supposed to be his crowning achievement, a masterpiece that could have taken its place alongside the Ferrari LaFerrari, Porsche 918 Spyder, and McLaren P1—the so-called “Holy Trinity” of hypercars. But now, with this ultimate commission, he has finally realized that dream. The result is a car that blends cutting-edge technology with the kind of craftsmanship you only find in bespoke projects.
The story of the Jaguar C-X75 is one of unfulfilled potential, but Callum’s latest creation gives it a more satisfying ending. It’s a glimpse into what could have been, but also a celebration of what is: a one-of-a-kind hypercar that delivers breathtaking performance, eye-catching design, and modern luxury. It may not be part of the “Holy Trinity,” but for those who love rare and beautiful cars, it’s a piece of automotive history brought to life, made all the more special by the passion and dedication of its original creator.
