Ferrari Unveils Chassis for Next Special Model | Ferrari

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Ferrari Unveils Chassis for Next Special Model

FerrariAt the Paris Motor Show currently underway, Ferrari has unveiled for the first time the newly developed carbon chassis that will be used in its next special model, following the "288 GTO," "F40," "F50," and "Enzo Ferrari."

Text by AKIZUKI Shinichiro (OPENERS)

Development Led by "The Aerodynamics Magician" Rory Byrne

As previously reported on OPENERS, the new model under development as the next "Speciale" will feature Ferrari's first-ever hybrid system.hybrid systemThe powertrain and components have already been under development based on the "599 GTB" and its outline had been announced, but at this year's Paris Motor Show, a newly developed carbon composite chassis was unveiled.

In manufacturing this new hybrid model's chassis, Ferrari made the bold decision to forgo the industrial carbon fiber production technique commonly used in the automotive industry, known as RTM (Resin Transfer Molding). The reason is clear: the performance and functionality did not meet Ferrari's standards.

Therefore, the company decided to elevate the materials, design methods, manufacturing processes, tooling, and even the staff to the same level as F1 car development. To oversee this manufacturing, they brought in a figure known by the nickname "The Aerodynamics Magician" – Rory Byrne, the former Ferrari F1 chief designer who, alongside Schumacher, built the team's golden era and led Ferrari to six consecutive Constructors' Championships (1999-2004).

Chassis Design Inherited from F1

According to Ferrari's official announcement, the chassis is composed of four different types of carbon fiber. The main structure is based on T800 carbon, with T800UD carbon used in high-stress areas. For the underbody structure and cross members, high-tensile (HTS) carbon fiber, known as M46J carbon, is employed to minimize vehicle weight. The central section of the vehicle, requiring high impact absorption and rigidity, is formed using T1000 carbon, the same material used in the nose cones of F1 cars. Additionally, the undertray is made from a composite of carbon fiber and Kevlar to protect against damage from stone chips.

Despite the increase in overall chassis weight due to the housing for the hybrid components and other necessary parts, a 20 percent reduction has been achieved compared to the Enzo Ferrari. Furthermore, torsional rigidity has improved by 27 percent, and beam rigidity by 22 percent.

The total weight of this next special model is expected to be around 1,000 kg, and it is anticipated to appear in a form very close to the "Mille Chili" concept model announced at Ferrari's 60th-anniversary event in 2007.

The previously announcedMcLaren's Next Model, the "P1", was conceived by Ron Dennis, the head of McLaren Racing. Now, Ferrari's next model is being directed by Rory Byrne, "The Aerodynamics Magician."

A dream scenario for F1 fans is unfolding in the development of a new generation of super sports cars.—