I've always found when reversing my 98 XK8 Convertible it's a little tricky to judge distances. I've researched high and low trying to find a reasonable aftermarket system of the "no drill" variety and I can now report that I have a workable system fitted.
I have used an electromagnetic kit from Proxel (not affiliated), made in Italy and available through Amazon.
I had the usual issues with removing the rear bumper in that both fixing bolts turned the brass fittings in the beam. I wasn't up for hacking through my perfectly good mounts so worked out that by removing the 9 rivets that secure the bumper to the beam by working from underneath the car allowed me to remove just the bumper skin.
That then allowed me to remove the mounts with the beam. On the bench I drilled small holes in the flange of the threaded brass fittings, screwed in a few self tapping screws and voila, undid both bolts and separated the mounts. I later epoxied the brass fittings and reused the self tappers. It ain't going anywhere now!
The reversing kit uses a long metallic strip behind the bumper skin and is wired into the boot (trunk) to the tiny control unit. One cable to the reversing light circuit, another to a beeper fitted behind the side panel next to the rear seat and there is the effective system. Couldn't be easier.
If anyone needs something easier than the usual sensors that need drilling, this is the kit for you.
The greatest advantage is.. (Dad joke warning) ..it can be reversed at any time as it doesn't alter any of the originality of the car.

 

Interesting - I've not seen that before!

 

I wonder how easy it would be to fit one of these to the front bumper?

 

I have one of tbose systems that I haven't got around to fitting yet so your post is very interesting. Has the inside of the bumper cover got ribs? If so, did you fit the strip over the ribs or go through them?

 

The inside of the bumper is actually very smooth. The kit contained some black butyl which you use to secure the metallic tape. I added several pieces of clear gorilla tape to add a bit more security. The metallic strip is self adhesive so it stays in place but a bit of extra fixing should ensure it stays put.
Additionally, the gap between the bumper skin and crash beam is very small so once the sensor is in place it's pretty well protected from the elements. The sensor is longer than you need and can be simply cut to size. I ran mine from side marker to side marker so I get sensing on the corners too. Potentially you could extend the sensor past the side markers but the strengthening frames at the side of the bumper would make it quite difficult but I don't believe it's necessary to do that.

 

Proxel make a separate kit for front sensing. It uses basically the same gear. I would say that the installation is doable but would require quite a bit more work than the rear.

 

They do have a sort of diagram on the website showing where the sensor should run, including the front bumper: https://www.proxel.com/en/installati...r-jaguar.html#

Of course, whether or not that is based on actually fitting it, or just looking at a photo, I don't know.

 

The rear bumper picture was pretty accurate when compared to my fitting. Not completely sure about the front as there is a lot more happening up front.

 

That's an interesting project! Honestly if I had to do anymore wiring than what I've already done (Bluetooth for the CD changer, 3rd Taillight etc) I'd just go ahead and install a chromed backup camera, that doubles as a recording device cam.

You would have to drill. Currently planning to add carplay to my xk8 which will use the function and record.