"The C-X16 represents a further avenue of research in Jaguar's mission to develop sustainable powertrain technologies and bring them to production, " the company said in a statement.

BBC: Jaguar reveals 'E-type successor'

"Several of Jaguar's rivals are already looking at various alternative powertrain technologies to use in the next generations of their high-performance vehicles, most notably Porsche's 918, Mercedes' SLS E-cell and BMW's i8, " observed IHS Global Insight analyst Ian Fletcher in a recent note.

BBC: Jaguar reveals 'E-type successor'

But with so much competition from abroad, and with so many competing future powertrain technologies out there--electric hybrids, clean diesels and hydrogen fuel cells--companies can't afford to go it alone, says David Cole, chairman of the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor, Mich.

FORBES: Magazine Article

Electric powertrain, battery management and charging technology are regarded as key technologies in the development and production of electric cars.

ENGADGET: Volvo and Siemens team up to build better electric engines

"The good news for customers is that they not only have more choice, but they have faster access to Ford's latest and greatest in fuel-saving technologies and vehicles, " said Joe Bakaj, Ford vice president of Powertrain Engineering.

ENGADGET: Ford underscores its love of electric cars, spends $135 million to make them happen