EASY RIDER

THERE IS no doubt that Jaguar needed an automatic option in its model line-up during the Fifties, especially given the importance of the US market, vital for Jaguar in the post-war years. It soon became apparent that the appeal in America and Europe differed in several ways, the most obvious being the need for an easy gear change.

A passion existed in America for European sports cars, where raw, uncompromised two-seaters offered excitement to a thrillseeking public. MG, Triumph and Jaguar led the way, creating a niche with the affluent youth. Jaguar XK models sold in droves and many ended up on the race track. However, if European manufacturers wanted a greater chunk of American Pie, they would have to add a few more ingredients.

Of all automotive innovations, clutchless gear changes proved to be long in development. The first reference was as far back as 1921, when the Canadian engineer Alfred Munro came up