‘Hybrid’ is no longer a dirty word in the performance world.
The Ferrari LaFerrari is easily one of the most impressive supercars on the road today. Its advanced hybrid technology and incredible performance puts it at the forefront of the supercar world. But, Ferrari has one-upped the LaFerrari with a hardcore, track-only hypercar version that is designed for one thing: performance. The new Ferrari FXX K is the latest and greatest performance car to roll off the Maranello factory line and boy is it just phenomenal from top to bottom.
The new Ferrari FXX K was designed to live on the race track and isn’t held back by any homologation and racing regulations, allowing engineers to create something without any compromise. The latest technology from aerodynamics to the hybrid powertrain have been pushed to their limits in the name of performance. This unmatched driving experience will be offered only to a super-exclusive list of Client-Test Drivers that will participate in a test program over the next two years through Ferrari.
The hybrid powertrain utilizes a modified version of the 6.2-liter (6,262 cc) naturally-aspirated V-12 engine found in the LaFerrari as the main source of power. Engineers gave the engine a new set of camshafts, new valvetrain with mechanical tappets, and redesigned intake manifolds with polished treatment for better airflow. Even the exhaust system is more efficient and now roars thanks to the removal of its mufflers.
The more potent V-12 is paired up with an advanced HY-KERS system of which the Ferrari FXX K gets the ‘K’ from. The system is set up so that the driver can choose between four modes for any given situation on the track via the Manettino on the center console. ‘Qualify’ mode is designed for maximum performance in a limited number of laps, ‘Long Run’ optimizes the system for consistent performance, ‘Manual Boost’ gives the driver the ability to instantly gain torque, and ‘Fast Charge’ allows the car’s battery to quickly recharge.
In total, the system creates a maximum of 1,035 horsepower and 664 lb-ft. of torque, with 188 horsepower (140 kW) coming from the electric motor. The V-12 engine alone produces a whopping 848 horsepower at 9,200 RPM and 553 lb-ft. of torque at 6,500 RPM while revving all the way up to 9,250 RPM. All that pulses through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Although the hybrid powertrain is going to grab the headlines, the sophisticated aerodynamics work to make the Ferrari FXX K stick to the track. Both passive and active aerodynamics cut down on drag and produce downforce for maximum efficiency and performance.
Up front, a twin-profile spoiler and splitter combo sits 30 mm lower and features a center gap to help balance the aerodynamics as seen in the GT Ferraris that compete in WEC. Two pairs of vertical elements mate with an endplate and dive plane to redirect air outwards towards the flanks to create a localized depression. This aerodynamic effect creates a suction effect that grabs the wake from the wheels to the outside of the aerodynamically-optimized underbody. The side skirts on the Ferrari FXX K also work to isolate the airflow from the smooth underbody for a more efficient profile.
The rear of the Ferrari FXX K is dominated by a large adjustable spoiler that extends 60 mm further than the LaFerrari. On either side sit a vertical vane with a small wing positioned on the inside to form guide vanes that help improve aerodynamic efficiency in the low drag configuration and enhance the downforce created by the adjustable wing in the high downforce mode. A large diffuser setup helps to optimize the way air is extracted from the underbody and creates a vacuum to keep the car planted on the asphalt.
The newly designed aerodynamics on the Ferrari FXX K generate 50-percent more downforce in the low drag configuration and 30-percent more in the downforce configuration mode, for a total of 1,191 lbs. at 124 mph.
Further adding to the surgical precision on the track are advanced electronics systems and aids. Pirelli slick tires are featured on the Ferrari FXX K and utilize sensors that display longitudinal, lateral, and radial acceleration, temperature, and pressure. The E-Diff electronic differential now features a different intervention level, while the F-Trac traction control system, Racing SSC (Slide Slip Angle Control) and other systems have been calibrated for the high-performance hybrid. Even the ABS system can be controlled using five different modes on the Manettino positioned on the steering wheel.
The new Ferrari FXX K will make its world debut on the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi on December 13th and will be running on various tracks around the world starting in 2015. Pricing and availability is so exclusive that if you have to ask, you’re not participating in the program.
Ferrari FXX K Specifications
Powertrain:
KERS System
Total Maximum Power: 1050 CV / 1035 HP
Total Maximum Torque: More than 900 Nm / 664 lb-ft.
V12 Maximum Power*: 860 CV / 848 HP at 9200 RPM
Maximum Engine Speed: 9250 RPM
V12 Maximum Torque: 750 Nm / 553 lb-ft. at 6500 RPM
Electric Motor Output: 140 kW / 190 CV / 188 HP
ICE:
Type: 65-deg. V12
Bore and Stroke: 94 x 75.2 mm
Total Displacement: 6262 cc
Specific Power: 137 CV/Liter
Dimensions:
Length: 4896 mm
Width: 2051 mm
Height: 1116 mm
Wheelbase: 2650 mm
Gearbox:
Type: 7-speed DCT
Suspension:
Front: Double wishbones
Rear: Multi-link
Tires: Pirelli P-Zero slicks with sensors
Front: 285/650 – R19 x 10.5
Rear: 345/725 – R20 x 13
Carbon ceramic brakes (Brembo)
Front: 398 x 223 x 36 mm
Rear: 380 x 253 x 34 mm
Electronic Controls:
ESC: Stability control
High Performance ABS/EBD: Performance anti-lock system/electronic brake balance
EF1-Trac: F1 electronic traction control integrated with the hybrid system
E-Diff: 3 third generation electronic differential
SCM-E Frs: Magnetorheological damping with twin solenoids (Al-Ni tube)
Aerodynamics: Active
*with dynamic ram effect
Ferrari FXX K Gallery
Source: Ferrari
Is the Ferrari FXX K the most hardcore track-only hypercar on the market?
