Hum… LaFerrari, THE Ferrari. The stuff dreams are made of.
Over at CarNewsCafe, we’ve been waiting to see what Ferrari would do with its six hybrid patent it dropped in 2009. The result is nothing short of breath taking, both in visuals and performance. Who says “green” technology can’t also be greener performance? Vindication at last.
It’s funny to think of Ferrari and an electric motor together. While Ferrari holds the lion’s share when it comes to exotic cars, it didn’t always jump on newer technologies, at least when il Commendatore had absolute control of the company. Case in point, Ferrari was late to adopt independent front suspension, all disk brakes and move its race engine to the rightful position of center-back.
A Hybrid Ferrari Named LaFerrari. In many ways, the LaFerrari is the boldest statement Ferrari has ever made, a testament at how Chairman Luca di Montezemolo, Piero Ferrari (Vice Chairman) and CEO Amedeo Felisa have pushed the performance envelop using newer technologies.
Technically Speaking. The beautiful 6.3L V12 uses an electric motor, much as Formula One and other prototypes use KERS to help boost performance to overtake and pass slower cars. Using a 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual, the 1,255 kg, 2,767 Lb LaFerrari delivers a jaw dropping 800 PS, that’s 588 kW, or 789 HP at 9,000 rpm with a healthy 700 N·m, that’s 516 lb·ft of torque at 6,750 rpm. All of this is helped with a 163 PS, 120 kW, 161 HP KERS system dubbed HY-KERS), which provides a few seconds of extra power. This “mild” hybrid provides the highest power output of any Ferrari while decreasing fuel consumption by 40 percent, according to the company.
The full numbers are even more impressive, the KERS system adds an altogether output level of 936 PS, 688 kW, 923 HP, with total torque over 900 N·m, 664 lb·ft. Ferrari says its CO2 emissions are as low as 330 g/km, which considering its performance is remarkable. The engine’s bore and stroke is 94×75.2 mm and the compression ratio is 13.5:1. this gives it a specific power output of 128 metric horsepower per litre. With its carbon-ceramic Brembo discs, 398 mm in the front and 380 mm behind, the tires are 265/30 R 19 for the front and 345/30 R 20 in the rear. With a top speed of over 350 km/h, 220 mph and a 0 to 60 achieved in under three seconds, the 0 to 120 MPH is a mere seven seconds.
An Electric Ferrari? Still, a Ferrari is a Ferrari and what do we make of an electric Ferrari?
Let’s watch what Alonso does with a Ferrari… Hint, notice that rare smile?
Can you say; “Hallo Porsche, die Italians haf heart you?” All kidding apart, it will be great to see the LaFerrari duke it out with a Porsche 918.
If you liked this video checkout this other video Fernando Alonso driving a LaFerrari.
