Abarth 500 Trophy at Monza: Villa and Baldan win

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With 27 drivers on the starting grid, the inaugural round of the Abarth 500 Trophy in Monza has been marked by a great show and fierce competition. Both races took place under the rain but, far from putting the drivers in trouble, the conditions emphasized the natural qualities of the Abarth 500 Assetto Corse, with duels to the hundredth of second but in the most absolute correctness.

After the first two races, the leader of the Abarth 500 Trophy classification is Manuel Villa, from Liguria, who won the first race and finished third in the second. He is followed by Sicily's Salvatore Tavano, fourth (fifth) in the first race and runner-up in the second. Tavano was credited with the fastest lap at an average speed of almost 145 kph. Third place is occupied by Venetian Nicola Baldan, who got the satisfaction of winning the second race after having finished sixth (seventh) in the first one.

The next round of the Abarth 500 Trophy will take place at the Mugello track on May 3rd.

Classification of Race 1: 1. Manuel Villa 7 laps in 17min18.987s (average speed: 140.505 kph); 2. Andrea Rizzoli + 2.973s; 3. Umberto Scandola + 3.411s; 4. Enrico Fulgenzi + 4.296s; 5. Salvatore Tavano + 5.795s; 6. Raffaele Giammaria + 8.914s; 7. Nicola Baldan + 9.380s; 8. Gianluca Giraudi + 11.142s; 9. Tobias Tauber + 15.062s; 10. Lorenzo Bontempelli + 17.634s. Fastest lap by Giraudi in 2min26.384s (average speed: 144.934 kph).

Classification Race 2: 1. Nicola Baldan 7 laps in 17min48.525s (average speed: 136.621 kph); 2. Salvatore Tavano + 2.355s; 3. Manuel Villa + 2.839s; 4. Scandola + 2.937s; 5. Andrea Rizzoli + 3.851s; 6. Raffaele Giammaria + 6.621s; 7. Lorenzo Bontempelli + 9.769s; 8. Gianluca Giraudi + 10.169s; 9. Tobias Tauber + 12.779s; 10. Davide Uboldi + 13.681s. Fastest lap by Tavano in 2min25.662s (average speed: 144.989 kph).

Classification of the Abarth 500 Trophy: 1. Manuel Villa 37 points; 2. Salvatore Tavano 33; 3. Andrea Rizzoli 32; 4. Nicola Baldan 31; 5. Raffaele Giammaria 24.

Abarth 500 Trophy: 27 drivers entered for Monza

For its debut race scheduled on Sunday 29 March at the Monza track, the Abarth 500 Trophy has attracted 27 drivers. This one-make championship stars the specially prepared Abarth 500 Assetto Corse, fitted with a 190 bhp engine which allows a top speed of over 220 kph.

Tomorrow (Saturday 28), the programme features a free practice session (from 9:00am to 09:25am) and a qualifying session from 1:45pm to 2:10pm. There will be two races on Sunday: the first one will get underway at 1:45pm while the second will start at 2:10pm.

Among the participants is young official Abarth driver Umberto Scandola, who has shown a lot of commitment in fine-tuning the Abarth 500 Assetto Corse during a number of test sessions last winter. “Driving the Abarth 500 Assetto Corse is a lot of fun”, said Scandola. “It's quick and it suits all kinds of driving styles”.

On this occasion, the young Abarth driver - who also takes part in the Italian Rally Championship this year - will make his circuit racing debut.

A lot of drivers entered in the Abarth 500 Trophy come from other one-make championships. In addition, there are some noteworthy beginners such as showmen Jimmy Ghione and Luca Cassol from the TV show “Striscia la Notizia”. The latter is better known as “Capitan Ventosa” (“Captain Suction Pad”).

This success in attracting such a field of competitors is also owed to the professionalism shown by the highly specialized “Abarth Racing” network which is renowned for its vast experience in the car racing world. They provide their racing customers with a car which is assembled and prepared directly in the Abarth workshops and with on-the-spot assistance.

There are nine “Abarth Racing” tuning workshops: Uboldi Corse with Autoalberta by Uboldi Corse (Lomazzo, Como), Carrozzeria Campana (Modena), Forza Service (Turin), Romeo Ferraris (Opera, Milan), Rosso Corsa (San Zeno Naviglio, Brescia), Trico Motor Sport (Alessandria), Officina Foresi (Civitanova Marche, Macerata), Procar (Casalguidi, Pistoia) and Zatti Sport (Parma).

When skimming through the entry list, it appears that drivers come from heterogeneous circles, reviving the “democratization of racing” concept so dear to Karl Abarth. The idea is to allow car racing drivers to participate while keeping the costs low.

In the Sixties and the Seventies, a lot of gentlemen-drivers were pitting themselves against young up-and-coming drivers all over Europe at the wheel of the 2-cylinder 500 Abarths. Today, the story repeats itself with the Abarth 500 Trophy, featuring a modern high-performance car capable of granting a great show.

The New FIAT Ducato on Natural Gas

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The FIAT Ducato 140 Natural Power goes on sale today: a natural gas-powered vehicle, guaranteeing top performance, low consumption and – above all – minimum emissions. The following bodywork configurations are available: Panel/Vetrato Van, Chassis cab, Combined, Panorama and Minibus.

The new natural gas Ducato extends the FIAT Professional Natural Power range, currently comprising: Panda Van 1.2, Punto Van 1.2, Multipla Van 1.6, Doblò Cargo 1.6 and Doblò Cargo Maxi 1.6. An offer as extensive as this means the brand can consolidate its leadership of this market and in 2008 FIAT Professional actually registered number plates for 5,900 natural gas-fuelled commercial vehicles in Europe: a share of 57.6% (over 5,000 were sold in Italy, for a share of 72.5%). FIAT Professional seeks to reinforce this record with the debut of the new Ducato 140 Natural Power.

Natural Power Ducatos are another ace up the sleeve for FIAT Professional’s icon model, of which over two million have been produced since its launch in 1981. The underpinning to this commercial success is the van’s surprising versatility. It is a firm favourite with artisans, traders and farmers, but equally with large companies and key clients like local authorities, police services, public administrations and health boards. Coach builders also see it as the perfect base for leisure vehicles (camper vans, motor caravans and motor homes), for carrying people (minibuses, school buses, ambulances, vehicles for the persons with reduced mobility) and goods (tip-ups, insulated, armoured, mobile stores).

The Ducato 140 Natural Power natural gas model fits a 3-litre engine, developing EC maximum 136 HP (100 kW), with 2,750-3,500 rpm, and maximum torque of 350 Nm at 1,500 rpm. With this kind of power the Maxi Van - Medium Wheelbase - High Roof configuration hits a top speed of 155km/h, with acceleration of 0-100 km/h in 13.9 seconds, and pick-up of 60-100 km/h (in fifth gear) in 10.1 seconds. It is also able to negotiate a 21.5% gradient when fully loaded. What is more, the new vehicle boasts reduced fuel consumption (8.8 kg of natural gas per 100 km in the combined cycle) and lower CO₂ emissions (239 g/km).

The engine was developed and produced by FPT – FIAT Powertrain Technologies, which targeted a natural gas engineering solution right from the start, adopting numerous specific components to ensure total reliability and efficiency, as well as the promise of performance on a par with that of a diesel engine.

The vehicle is configured to default to natural gas. Petrol supply is provided automatically only when the natural gas is about to run out: the petrol tank holds 15 litres in recovery mode to assure 100 km driving distance to reach the nearest natural gas station.

The gas tanks are installed under the flooring and this leaves the entire storage area free. The fuel system comprises five tanks for an overall capacity of 220 litres (weighing 36 kg) for a400 km range. The natural gas is stored at a nominal 200 bars, at 15°C, and flows as far as the pressure reducer/regulator which supplies four low-pressure (about 7 bars) injectors. These are fitted to the cylinder head and activated by the related electronic control system. If the natural gas runs out, the electronic control system automatically manages the transition to petrol supply.

The Benefits of A New Natural Gas Commercial Vehicle

The new Ducato 140 Natural Power stands as the endorsement of the FIAT Group’s ongoing focus on environmental themes through research and development of tangible solutions available now and available to everyone. FIAT Group Automobiles is world leader in natural gas-powered automotive and commercial vehicles and is fully convinced that natural gas fuel is today’s most appropriate technological option for contributing to the solution of pollution issues in urban areas, since methane is currently not only the cleanest fuel on offer but guarantees significant economic advantages. Unlike diesel vehicles, those with natural gas engines do not discharge particulate and nitrogen oxide emissions are less than 90%. When compared to petrol, natural gas engines guarantee a 50% decrease in nitrogen oxide emission and almost 25% less CO₂, contributing to reducing the greenhouse effect. Thanks to these features, the FIAT Ducato 140 Natural Power can circulate in all urban areas subject to traffic limitations and can be safely parked in any garage.

500 Assetto Corse on the starting line

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The Abarth 500 Trophy will be making its debut on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 March at the Monza track. This one-make championship stars the Abarth 500 Assetto Corse, announcing 190HP engines.

Monza is the Abarth 500 Trophy’s first outing and includes six events of two races each. There are free trials, a qualifying heat of 25 minutes, and two 50 km races. The starting grid for the second race will depend on the best lap times achieved in the first race.

The Abarth 500 Trophy races are part of a high-profile scenario, like the Ferrari Challenge-Pirelli Trophy and the CSAI Championships. After the Monza event, there will be races at Mugello on 3 May, at Imola on 17 May, at Magione on 7 June, at Mugello on 27 September and at Vallelunga on 11 October.

There is a lavish prize pool of 4,500 euros to be split amongst the first five over the finish line in each race and a top prize of an Abarth 500 for the overall winner, while the runner- up will win free registration for the 2010 Trophy.

Competitors’ names will be announced in the middle of next week.

There is a lot of breath-holding for the debut of this vehicle with its out-and-out racing features but very affordable if compared to other sports cars around.

It was precisely on the Monza circuit that some spectacular historic races were seen, with cars scraping past on the straight. A spectacle that will be revived with today’s Abarth 500 Assetto Corse cars, all fitted out and prepared directly by the Officine Abarth, then delivered to the “Abarth Racing” tuners who take care of racetrack maintenance and support.

For sports car customers the brand has actually created an Italian tuner network – called “Abarth Racing” – that is the privileged gateway to Abarth races.

The exclusive “Abarth Racing” network is highly specialized and currently includes nine companies famous for their many years of experience in the car engine and race world: Uboldi Corse with Autoalberta by Uboldi Corse (Lomazzo, Como); Carrozzeria Campana (Modena); Forza Service (Turin); Romeo Ferraris (Opera, Milan); Rosso Corsa (San Zeno Naviglio, Brescia); Trico Motor Sport (Alessandria); Officina Foresi (Civitanova Marche, Macerata); Procar (Casalguidi, Pistoia); Zatti Sport (Parma).

A VIP car will attend every race, although it won’t be competing: an Abarth 500 Assetto Corse driven by a famous figure from the car engine, sport or entertainment worlds. Further proof of Abarth’s commitment to spreading racing culture and one more occasion for drumming up enthusiasm in the racing public.

Organization for teams and drivers is enhanced by Abarth’s offer of precision service in circuit paddocks, conceived as an organization and meeting centre for all competitors.

Anyone with a driver’s licence can register for the Abarth 500 Trophy and an extension is offered to anyone over 15 as long as they have a national licence awarded after taking a special course with the CSAI Federal School.

The Abarth 500 European Trophy will rev up in late May and is actually partnering six WTCC-World Touring Car Championship events. The first event is on 31 May in Valencia (Spain), continuing on 21 June at Brno (Czech Republic), 5 July at Porto (Portugal), 19 July at Brands Hatch (GB), 6 September at Oschersleben (Germany), closing at Imola on 20 September.

Once again there will be two races for each date, with cash prizes of 4,500 euros per event and an Abarth 500 for the outright winner.

"Bleu Centenaire" sold at the Geneva Motor Show

On the second press day of the Geneva Motor Show the special 100th anniversary Veyron “Bleu Centenaire” was sold at the Bugatti stand.


This extraordinary once-in-a-lifetime car interprets the traditional Bugatti two-tone-scheme using only one colour: the now famous Bugatti blue, albeit the side elements are in “sprint blue matte” and the centre section is “sprint blue glossy”. The roof-trim-stripes and the exterior rear view mirrors are of polished, anodised aluminium, the rims – with a red brake-capillar – were specially manufactured for this model.



The festivities for the 100th anniversary of Bugatti have gotten off to a successful start in Geneva, yet further surprises await at Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este (24 to 26 April) and in Molsheim (12 September). So if you weren’t able to get your hands on the Centenaire, you can look forward to what Bugatti has in store for Villa d'Este.

Fiat Bravo and the cutting-edge “eco:Drive”

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After FIAT 500 and FIAT Grande Punto, also those buying FIAT Bravos with Blue&Me can use “eco:Drive”, a state-of-the-art system that gives drivers a better perception of their own driving style and how that influences consumption and emission of polluting substances.

The feature is available free of charge from www.fiat.com/ecodrive and in the first five months of its launch the software application (to install on your own computer) was downloaded by about 35,000 users. Not to mention the 10,000-plus people using it all the time to monitor their driving style as well as living it up at “eco:Ville”, the online community for sharing interest and commitment to eco-responsible driving. So, great public success but real commitment too: thanks to “eco:Drive” advice Europe’s CO2 emissions can be cut down by over 700 tons, which is enough energy to light up the streets of a city the size of Geneva for eight months.

How does it work? As you drive, “eco:Drive” collects information on how you handle the vehicle and its efficiency. All data are sent into a standard USB using the versatile Blue&Me’s USB port so they are available for subsequent viewing on a computer. The user can then take a careful look at the consumption and emissions for each journey (ecoIndex) and be advised on how to approach driving to achieve lower environmental impact. In point of fact, thanks to a series of progressive tutorials, you can raise your score and that means the more careful – eco-responsible – driver can expect a 15% improvement in vehicle handling, which in turn means cutting CO2 by 15% and an annual fuel saving of anything from 120 to 200 euros.

In 2009, hot on the heels of 500, Grande Punto and Bravo, the system will extend to the entire FIAT range carrying Blue&Me and will enjoy ongoing development thanks to user input, making it even more useful. Lastly, remember that “eco:Drive” is an evolution of Blue&Me, the platform developed by FIAT Group Automobiles in partnership with Microsoft, that has already received international awards, with 500,000 units fitted to various group models in the last two years.

200th Bugatti Veyron delivered

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We are proud to anncounce that on Friday the 7th of March Bugatti Automobiles delivered the 200th Bugatti Veyron of the limited production run of 300 cars.

This car happened to be one of the treasured Bugatti Veyron FBG par Hermès in the colour combination Rouge Garance and Blue Indigo.

The car was delivered to a Middle east customer.

Murciélago LP 650-4 Roadster

Automobili Lamborghini has released the first photographs of a limited edition Murciélago LP 650-4 Roadster.

The Roadster version of the Murciélago will offer an uprated 6.5 litre V12 engine that produces 650 hp (478 kW) along with permanent four-wheel drive: hence the model’s LP 650-4 moniker. With 660 Nm of torque, top performance is at 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in 3.4 seconds. The top speed is around 330 Km/h (205mph).

The special edition model will be produced in a limited volume (50 units only), with a Grigio Telesto exterior that combines grey bodywork with a special bright orange Arancio LP 650-4 featured on the front spoiler and sills. The LP 650-4 logo applied to the car’s exterior is recognition of the car’s increased power. The car features orange brake calipers and a transparent V12-engine cover, which shows off the V12 engine behind the driver.

Interior features echo the car's striking grey-and-orange exterior: besides the orange touches, there is an asymmetric dash design, with black Alcantara Nera on the driver's side, including door panel and central tunnel, and black leather Nero Perseus on the passenger's side.

The increased power of the Murciélago engine, from 640 to 650 hp, will be unique to the Murciélago LP 650-4 Roadster: it demonstrates even further the developments that Lamborghini is able to offer from a current engine, and creates the exclusive characteristic of the Murciélago LP 650-4 Roadster.

LAMBORGHINI AND BLANCPAIN

The world’s oldest luxury watchmaker Blancpain has been announced as title sponsor of the new Lamborghini one-make racing series, now named the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo. This union of the brands brings together the finest in automotive and timekeeping engineering, ahead of the inaugural race at Silverstone, UK, on 2/3 May.

Since 1735, Blancpain has produced innovative timepieces from its home in the Vallée de Joux, Switzerland. Each watch is made by a single horologist, reflecting the quality and individual attention given to building each Lamborghini road car as well as the 570 hp Super Trofeo race car.

The all-wheel drive series will visit iconic circuits such as Silverstone, Spa-Francorchamps and Paul Ricard. It will run alongside the best in sportscar racing including FIA GT and Europe’s premier touring car series, DTM.

“This is an intensely dynamic partnership of two very different businesses, with the same drive for innovation and mechanical prestige,” said Marc A. Hayek, President and CEO of Blancpain. “In my mind, Blancpain has always been rather revolutionary…a little bit crazy, a bit of an adventurer. We have always tried to be different, to become more innovative, to try things that have not been attempted or been achieved in the past.

“We have only ever worked with the very best materials and craftsmen, and the pursuit of excellence is a passion that both Blancpain and Lamborghini hold dear,” continued Hayek. “Because Lamborghini is unmistakably a high performance manufacturer at the pinnacle of precision engineering, the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo is an ideal platform for further extending our brand to a worldwide audience.”

“Lamborghini couldn’t be happier to have an association with Blancpain, a company synonymous with enduring style, quality and genuine exclusivity,” said Lamborghini’s Director for Brand and Design, Manfred Fitzgerald. “Both parties will undoubtedly benefit from the joint venture. Both brands are passionate about looking after every hundredth of a second: we share very strong brand synergies, Blancpain are a great asset, and we look forward to the season ahead.”

Abarth at Brazil's Rally de Curitiba

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The works Abarth Grande Punto S2000s of Giandomenico Basso, co-driven by Mitia Dotta, and young Finn Anton Alén, co-driven by Timo Alanne, take part in Brazil's Rally Internacional de Curitiba which gets underway tomorrow (Thursday 5 March) at 17:00 local time - 21:00 CET. This is the second round of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge, the international championship that began last January with the Rallye Monte-Carlo.

The Rally Internacional de Curitiba takes place on gravel roads and is characterized by fast special stages and a lot of crests. This fixture should suit to perfection the Nordic drivers' style. The main rivals of the Abarth drivers for this event will be Frenchman Nicolas Vouilloz, Belgian Freddy Loix, Britt Kris Meeke (all driving Peugeot 207 S2000s) and Argentinean Marcos Ligato (with a Mitsubishi Lancer).

For the Abarth Team drivers, this will be the first participation in the South American rally as it was not part of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge before.

The programme features two legs. After the ceremonial start, the crews restart on Friday 6 March at 8:30am (12:30pm CET) from the paddock of the Autódromo Internacional de Curitiba (Curitiba circuit) and head towards the first of the seven special stages scheduled on day one. The leg covers a distance of 388 km, of which 101 against the stopwatch, and finishes at 17:40 (21:40 CET). Saturday 7 March, the second and last section takes in six more special stages totalling 120 km. It begins at 7:20am (11:20am CET) to finish at the Autódromo de Curitiba at 14:05 (18:05 CET).

A Fiat 500 Show Car Birthday Gift For Barbie®

Fiat 500 makes headlines once more, as befits an authentic Made in Italy icon. This time it’s an original Fiat 500 show car dedicated to the most famous fashion doll ever: Barbie®. This exceptional vehicle, created by a partnership between the Fiat Centro Stile and Mattel, will be given officially to Barbie® on 9 March next, at her fiftieth birthday celebrations in Milan.

It’s a fashionista car but quite tongue-in-cheek and with lots of charm: just like Barbie® herself. The gleaming paintwork resembles varnish and definitely makes for a shock effect, achieved with deep lacquered colour using ultra fine aluminium plunged in deep, up-to-the-minute pink. The seating is upholstered in strikingly soft fabrics: silver laminated Alcantara® is not only trendy but plush to the touch and its glimmer bounces as far as the roof panel. Then there are mats enhanced with natural silk yarn and sleek viscose, not to mention lip glosses in brilliant colours stored in the glove compartment, plus a LED-decked vanity mirror to ensure perfect application. And there's more. The car has more features than a crown has jewels! Crystals sparkle on interior bezels, hubcaps, outer window mouldings and antenna and even outline the doll’s famed silhouette on the pillars. Lastly, this Fiat 500 show car also has its own glossy cover, featuring the distinctive Sixties version of the Fiat 500 and a Barbie® autograph.

The latest Fiat 500 show car will appear in public for the first time on Monday 9 March, from 6.30pm onwards, when it will race through the quintessential streets of Milan’s fashion district. Barbie® will be aboard and she’ll have her own special driver: Ken, of course. On arriving at the entrance to La Rinascente department store, in Piazza Duomo, Barbie® will leave the car and walk the unique pink carpet created just for her. The band Nena will be playing live in the background, reviving some of the most famous pop songs from the fifty years of the legendary fashion doll's existence.

Roberto Giolito, creator of the Fiat 500, had this to say about the Mattel-Fiat partnership scheme: “All-American Ms Barbie® already has a number of ‘transport solutions’ available, like thundering GTs and motor homes with endless accessories. So if she’s spotted a 500 and wants one as a gift for this landmark birthday, it’s a signal typical of modern times that there’s a renewed need for dreaming the simple things in life, which give so much, allow us to lighten up, thrill who’s born beautiful or just feels beautiful, but doesn’t have to prove anything. After all, Barbie® already has everything. Sleek Barbie® is a looker, smart enough to listen to everyone, a universal ambassador opting for a car that never divides but frees everyone from having to declare their social status. The new 2009 version celebrates her birthday with a model that offers a better view of the sun and the stars, all the better for continuing to dream, especially daydreams.”

Ferrari at Geneva Motor Show

Ferrari will introduce the HGTE (Handling GT Evoluzione) package for the 599 GTB Fiorano and the world debute of the 599XX.

Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce

The Lamborghini Murciélago is one of the most extraordinary super sports cars of all time. Automobili Lamborghini has now expanded its model range with a new, exceptionally purist and even more extreme top model – the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is even more powerful, lighter and faster than the Murciélago LP 640. With the output of the 6.5 liter V12 increased to 670 hp and a weight reduction of 100 kg (220 lbs), the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce boasts a power-to-weight ratio of 2.3 kg (5.1 lbs) per hp. This catapults it from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a breathtaking 3.2 seconds and powers it on to a top speed of around 342 km/h (212 mph). Distinctive design refinements ensure that each of this 350-unit limited edition series conveys its full potential from the very first glance.

With its outstanding performance, razor-sharp precision and exceptional high-speed stability, the Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is the ultimate performance car for advanced sports car drivers. The super sports car has been extensively redesigned with a new front and rear, an innovative engine bonnet and a choice of two aerodynamic set-ups featuring either a small or large rear spoiler. The interior in Alcantara and carbon fiber provides a purist and minimalist approach.

In order to achieve the substantial weight reduction of 100 kilograms (220 lbs), the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce was extensively reworked and redeveloped in virtually every aspect – from chassis to engine and transmission, right through to the interior. The increase in engine output from 640 to 670 hp is the result of optimized valve timing and a reworked intake system. The significantly modified aerodynamics with substantially increased downforce brings considerable improvement to vehicle stability at very high speeds. With the small standard-fit rear spoiler, top speed stands at 342 km/h (212 mph), while the large “Aeropack Wing” and its added downforce gives a top speed of 337 km/h (209 mph).

“The new Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is the systematic continuation of our brand philosophy. It is more extreme and uncompromising than virtually any other automobile,” says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “As the new top model of the highly successful Murciélago range, the SuperVeloce displays not only outstanding driving dynamics, it is also further evidence of our company’s technological expertise. Customers can look forward to an utterly unparalleled driving experience.”


Design and aerodynamics

The Murciélago is an icon of the Lamborghini brand – a sports machine of menacing character and brutal power. Its unique design radiates a supreme form of highly concentrated sensuality. Wide, low, with its glass area pushed way forward and a long, taut back – the interplay between the soft contours of the basic form and razor sharp edges is the perfect expression of the Lamborghini design language. In the totality of its character, the Murciélago is without comparison on the sports car market.

Yet even a character like this can be further refined – the new Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is the more extreme, even more purist pinnacle of the model range. This is clearly evident from the very first glimpse of its completely redesigned front end – pulled way forward and finished in matt black paint, the carbon fiber front spoiler is connected to the front end via two vertical elements. The large air intakes for the front brakes are more powerfully emphasized. The new front fenders feature additional air intakes for brake ventilation. The air vent for the oil cooler located in the driver-side sill area is painted matt black to match the sills.

The modifications are even more apparent around the mighty engine bay of the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce. The twelve-cylinder engine is presented as an engineering masterpiece under a transparent engine bonnet that boasts a completely new architecture. Hexagonal polymer plates made from transparent polycarbonate are set on three levels within a carbon fiber framework. The layers are open towards the rear, playing a key role in the thermodynamics of the high-performance engine.

The impressive rear end of the SuperVeloce is dominated by a veritably noble, flat and extremely wide exhaust tailpipe and, on the underside, by a two-level diffuser system finished entirely in carbon fiber. The rear light clusters display their signals in that distinctive Y-shape that has been a fixed element of Lamborghini design since the Murciélago LP 640, Reventón and Gallardo LP 560-4. The panel between the lights is made from carbon fiber, while the large intake mesh below expands across the full width of the rear end. Made from thick-walled aluminum, the hexagonal pattern is laser-cut and a Teflon coating provides the necessary heat protection.

The aerodynamics of the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce have been completely redeveloped. Alongside the enlarged front spoiler and the twin rear diffuser, the new fixed rear spoiler also plays an important role. Customers can choose between two versions, with the small rear spoiler providing improved downforce at high speeds. As an option, the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce can be supplied with the “Aeropack Wing” – a large, fixed, carbon-fiber wing mounted on two carbon-fiber brackets. The new aerodynamic set-up provides a significant boost to directional stability at the very highest speeds. The top-speed downforce on the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce with Aeropack is strongly increased.


Bodyshell and lightweight construction

With the construction of the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce, Lamborghini proves its expertise in the manufacture of lightweight materials and in working with hi-tech carbon fiber. The structure of the super sports car is a composite construction of extremely stiff carbon components and a tubular steel frame – as in a race car. The transmission tunnel and the floor are made of carbon fiber, attached to the steel frame using rivets and high-strength adhesives. The roof and the exterior door panels are formed in sheet steel, while the remainder of the outer skin is made from carbon composite material.

For the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce, engineers in Sant’Agata Bolognese recalculated the framework and selected a new, super high-strength sectional steel. This achieved two objectives – on the one hand, they increased the torsional stiffness of the chassis by 12 percent to provide improved handling precision and, on the other, they were able to reduce weight by 20 kg (44 lbs), making a significant contribution to the reduction of overall vehicle weight. And the systematic approach to lightweight design continues throughout the entire bodyshell. The front fenders, the rear side panels/fenders and the casing for the third brake light are made of a modified carbon-fiber material. Combined with the removal of the drive for the moveable spoiler, this brings a further weight reduction of 13 kg (28.6 lbs).

Added to the 33 kg (72.6 lbs) of weight reduction from the chassis and exterior, are 34 kg (74.8 lbs) from the interior, as well as over 33 kg (72.6 lbs) removed from the engine and drive train.


Power unit and transmission

The longitudinally mounted 6.5 liter V12 delivers the infernal power for an unparalleled driving experience. With 670 hp (493 kW), the engine in the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is 30 hp more powerful than in the Murciélago LP 640. The twelve-cylinder sends its mighty 660 Nm (487 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft at 6,500 rpm; maximum power is reached at 8,000 rpm, with an average piston speed of 23.7 meters per second – a figure almost comparable to race engines.

The V12 is eager to deliver its performance – it brings its menacing power with immediacy and precision to guarantee breathtaking performance – after only 3.2 seconds the SuperVeloce has already reached 100 km/h (62 mph).

The engine block and heads of the V12, positioned at the ideal cylinder angle of 60 degrees, are made from aluminum. The four chain-driven camshafts are variably controlled, while the intake manifold operates in three stages – both technologies add even greater thrust to the merciless pushing power. To increase the performance of the SuperVeloce, the intake system was modified, the valve train optimized and, most importantly, valve travel was increased.

The control electronics for the V12 were developed internally by Lamborghini - each cylinder bank has its own high-performance processor. If the engine needs more cooling air, intake funnels emerge from the rear pillars: when not in operation, they lie flush with the bodyshell. Dry sump lubrication enables the V12 to be mounted extremely low down, benefiting the handling dynamics: this also guarantees oil supply under extremely dynamic driving conditions. With 12 liters of lubricating oil in circulation, the oil cooler is located on the left side of the vehicle and cooled by air flowing through the aperture in the sill.

The weight reduction of more than 26 kg (57 lbs) in the engine area was derived primarily from the completely new exhaust system. The muffler has been redesigned and even the mighty tailpipe of the SuperVeloce manufactured from new materials is lighter than on the Murciélago LP 640. But most of all, the new exhaust system makes for an acoustic experience that is surely equal to the driving performance – from the heavy rumble of a stormy night, through the trumpeting of mighty elephants to the roar of a raging lion, the SuperVeloce performs the grand opera for 12 cylinders, 48 valves and 8,000 revs.

The SuperVeloce is equipped as standard with the sequential, automated manual transmission e.gear, which uses electro-hydraulics to shift gear extremely quickly and smoothly. A cockpit display informs the driver of the gear currently engaged. In addition a special “Corsa” mode and a “Low adherence” mode are available.

As a no-premium option, the SuperVeloce is available with a six-speed manual transmission. Its short metal shift stick runs in an open gate of classic Italian elegance. In both variants, the new lightweight clutch makes its own contribution to the weight loss program.


All-wheel drive and chassis

The Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce delivers its extreme power to the road with great reliability – assured by its permanent all-wheel drive. Before the rear wheels spin, the viscous coupling sends up to 35 percent of driving force via its additional shaft to the front wheels. The front and rear limited-slip differentials are set at 25 and 45 percent. With its four driven wheels and traction, the Murciélago delivers a decisive advantage over rear-wheel drive sports cars when it comes to accelerating out of a corner – and always with maximum stability. The rear axle bears 58 percent of its overall weight – a distribution ratio that is highly beneficial to traction.

Explosive dynamics, tenacious cornering and extreme speeds – the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is a super sports car packed with aggressive power, but by no means a mean-spirited car. Its steering requires very little power support, giving full control of the car to the driver. Those prepared to tackle the beast head on are quickly rewarded with intimate contact and trust – as speed increases, so the Murciélago reveals its strengths, thus exposing a character with no hidden surprises and behavior that can always be anticipated.

The Murciélago is fitted with double wishbone suspension all round. Spring struts – two on each of the rear wheels and one on each of the front – control the loads transferred from the road. The standard-fit lifting system enables the front end of the vehicle to be raised by 45 mm (1.8 inches) to avoid obstacles such as garage entryways. The SuperVeloce is equipped with exclusive “Ares” alloy-forged wheels, bearing the exclusive five twin-spoke design. The front wheels are clad in 245/35 ZR 18 rubber, while the rears sport 335/30 ZR 18. High-grip Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires come as standard.

Four brakes controlled by a hi-tech ABS system are capable of mighty stopping power when required. The Carbon Ceramic (CCB) brakes are fanned by cooling air flowing through enlarged channels in the bodyshell, while openings in the front fenders provide additional ventilation for the SuperVeloce. The ceramic discs are exceptionally lightweight, fade-free and capable of extremely high operational performance.


Interior and equipment

Even stepping into the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is an experience as individual as the vehicle itself. The upward-opening doors – a solution developed by Lamborghini in the early seventies for the Countach – are released via small latches, then swing wide open to reveal a panorama of the exclusive interior of the Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce. The dominating materials are Alcantara and carbon fiber, which make for an ambience that is as high-quality as it is sporty.

The sports bucket seats come as standard and provide exceptionally firm support around the hip and shoulder areas. The bucket seats are made from lightweight and highly robust carbon fiber and guarantee the driver perfect support, even in the most extreme driving situations. The Murciélago’s standard seats are also available on the SuperVeloce as an option free of charge.

Not only the seats are upholstered in black Alcantara micro-fiber; the cockpit and the roof lining are also finished in this high-quality, lightweight material. The Y-shaped perforations on the seats and roof lining bring additional finesse, with an inlaid backing material in the same color as the exterior paintwork. The Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce can be delivered with the paint finishes Giallo Orion, Arancio Atlas, Bianco Isis, Grigio Telesto and Nero Aldebaran, as well as Bianco Canopus (white matt) and Nero Nemesis (black matt) as an option.

Naturally, the interior also makes its contribution to weight reduction. The door panels are clad in carbon fiber, as is the wide center tunnel. The application of Alcantara instead of leather is another weight-saver, just like the selection of sports bucket seats and the omission of the radio-navigation system (if requested, this is available as an option). At the end of the day, the music in a Murciélago comes from the engine compartment. Overall, modifications to the interior contribute over 34 kg (75 lbs) to the SuperVeloce weight loss program.

But absolutely no corners have been cut when it comes to one characteristic that is a feature of all Lamborghini super sports cars – the exceptionally high quality of the workmanship. The craftsmen in Sant’Agata Bolognese are all masters of their respective trades; the three-year warranty bears testimony to absolute faith in product quality.