The promised special concept based on the Jaguar F-Type is called Project 7. It will debut at the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed--and it's not the F-Type coupe.

Reduced to a single-seater with a D-Type-style fairing and carbon fiber aerodynamic work the Project 7 sprints to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and hits a top speed of 186 mph. Power comes from the familiar supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 of the F-Type V8 S, but upgraded to 550 PS--a figure Jaguar typically matches in horsepower for U.S.-market cars.

With Jaguar chief vehicle integrity engineer Mike Cross at the wheel, the F-Type-based Project 7 will climb Goodwood hill in its first public outing. The name derives from the brand's seven Le Mans wins between 1951-1990.

"Project 7 is a single-seater sports car based on the F-TYPE, with the kind of racing-inspired form that designers dream about. It has one purpose: to be driven fast and enjoyed. Jaguar sports cars are known for exceptional performance and clean design. Project 7 captures that spirit in its purest form," said Ian Callum, Jaguar's director of design.

Specific components replaced in the conversion from F-Type to Project 7 spec include: a new front splitter, side skirts, and rear diffuser; unique composite single-seat interior with racing harness, helmet holder, and custom trim; an upgraded exhaust system; and a 10-mm lower ride height with unique spring and damper tuning.

While we have no illusions that Jaguar might serialize production of such a brilliantly compromised car, Project 7 may hint at the way forward for the expected sportier-yet trims, possibly to be called F-Type R, F-Type R-S, and F-Type R-S GT.

Whatever the reasoning behind it, the Project 7's look and feel takes the already sharp F-Type in good directions.

For more from the Goodwood Festival of Speed, click here.

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