The Prancing Horse unveils its next generation of V-12 motoring.
After much anticipation, Ferrari has finally unveiled their 599 successor online before its official introduction at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The Italian automaker had previously released three teaser videos of the car and a wooden model image was released on the internet before its online debut, but it still had us begging for more. Now it’s here and has stormed onto the net as the most powerful and fastest Ferrari ever built.
The new Ferrari F12Berlinetta is a revolutionary step towards the future of V-12 motoring. The 6.2-liter V-12 engine that powers the F12Berlinetta is completely new and was designed for maximum mechanical, combustion, and fluid dynamic efficiency. The 65-degree V-12 is mounted front-mid on the chassis and produces and incredible 730 horsepower (740 CV) at 8,500 RPM and 509 lb-ft. at 6,000 RPM with 80 percent of the torque available from just 2,500 RPM. The engine is paired up with a close-ratio dual-clutch F1 transmission designed to match the engine’s performance characteristics.
Even though the rear-wheel drive Ferrari F12Berlinetta is capable of accelerating to 62 mph in 3.1 seconds, reaching 124 mph in 8.5 seconds, and a top speed of over 211 mph, Ferrari was able to cut fuel consumption by 30 percent and emissions down to 350 g/km over the 599 model it replaces. The Ferrari F12Berlinetta was also the fastest around the Fiorano circuit, posting a 1’23” lap time.
One of the ways that Ferrari was able to achieve such great efficiency with the F12Berlinetta was by utilizing new metal alloys, some of which have never been used in an automotive application. Scaglietti designed the frame and chassis of the F12Berlinetta using 12 alloys joined together using advanced assembly techniques. This resulted in a 154 lb. reduction in weight over the 599 and a 20 percent increase in structural rigidity.
The typical transaxle layout found in front-mid engined Ferraris was also changed dramatically. The Italian automaker shortened the wheelbase, lowered the drivetrain and cockpit, and decreased the size of the rear. By doing so, the Ferrari F12Berlinetta became a compact super car with a very low center of gravity for superb handling dynamics. An ideal weight distribution of 46/54 was achieved with the new chassis layout.
Ferrari employed the latest in computational fluid dynamics and wind tunnel testing to create an efficient design that generates a large amount of downforce. The Italian automaker was able to reduce drag down to 0.229 Cd and boost downforce by 76 percent for a total of 270 lbs. at 124 mph. A new Aero Bridge at the front generates downforce and channels air away from the upper portion of the F12Berlinetta and redirects it into the wake of the wheel wells. New Active Brake Cooling uses vanes to supply the latest-generation carbon ceramic brakes (CCM3) with cool air to lower heat and reduce drag.
Inside, the Ferrari F12Berlinetta is focused on the driver and optimized for maximum utility. There is storage space behind each of the seats and the dashboard and controls are ergonomically designed around the driver. Facing passengers are aeronautical carbon fiber and aluminum vents while new Fau leather adorns much of the interior.
The Ferrari F12Berlinetta will make its official debut at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show. Pricing and production plans have not been announced by Ferrari.
Ferrari F12Berlinetta Video
httpv://youtu.be/qEQKjIFkhWs
httpv://youtu.be/P5agUWoxmLQ
Ferrari F12Berlinetta Specifications
Engine:
Displacement: 6.2 liters (6,262 cc)
Number of Cylinders: 65-degree V-12
Aspiration: Naturally Aspirated
Maximum Horsepower:730 (740 CV) at 8,500 RPM
Maximum Torque: 509 lb-ft. (690 Nm) at 6,000 RPM
Maximum Engine Speed: 8,700 RPM
Transmission:
Type: F1 dual-clutch with close ratios
Drive: Rear-wheel
Performance:
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 3.1 seconds
Acceleration 0-124 mph: 8.5 seconds
Top Speed: Over 211 mph (340 km/h)
Fiorano Circuit Time: 1’23”
Dimensions and Weight:
Length: 4618 mm
Width: 1942 mm
Height: 1273 mm
Dry weight*: 1525 kg
Weight distribution: 46% front, 54% rear
Weight-power ratio: 2.1 kg/CV
Fuel Consumption and Emissions (ECE + EUDC combined cycle):
Consumption**: 15l/100 km
CO2**: 350 g/km
*With lightweight options
**With HELE System
Ferrari F12Berlinetta Gallery
[Source: Ferrari]
What do you think of the new Ferrari F12Berlinetta? Leave a comment and let us know!
