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June 30, 2021
Ferrari's First V6 Hybrid Model, the "296 GTB," Debuts | Ferrari
Ferrari 296GTB | Ferrari 296GTB
Ferrari's First V6 Hybrid Model, the "296 GTB," Debuts
On June 24, Ferrari unveiled the new two-seater mid-engine model "296 GTB," equipped with a plug-in hybrid system (PHEV) and a 2.9-liter V6 engine.
Text by HARA Akira
Total Maximum Output: 830cv
The car's name, 296 GTB, combines the 2.9-liter 6-cylinder engine with the initials GTB for Gran Turismo Berlinetta, in keeping with Ferrari tradition. The powertrain consists of a 2,992cc V6 twin-turbo engine producing a maximum output of 663cv and an electric motor generating 167cv. When used simultaneously, they can produce a total output of 830cv, or the car can be driven on electric power alone (EV range of 25km). It drives the rear wheels via an 8-speed DCT and a transition manager actuator (TMA). It achieves 0-100km/h in 2.9 seconds, 0-200km/h in 7.3 seconds, a top speed of 330km/h, and a lap time of 1 minute 21 seconds on the Fiorano test track.
The new V6 engine features a 120° cylinder bank angle, a first for Ferrari, with the turbos mounted within the V-banks. This design contributes to a lower center of gravity and reduced weight, while also setting a new specific output record for a production road car at 221cv/L. Furthermore, it harmonizes the opposing characteristics of turbo power with the high-frequency sound of a naturally aspirated 12-cylinder engine. This V6, the first in the F163 engine family, produces a high-pitched engine note audible both inside and outside the cabin, earning it the nickname "Piccolo 12 (Little V12)" during development. The limiter engages at a high 8,500rpm, further enhancing driver excitement and immersion.
The electric motor is mounted at the rear, delivering a maximum torque of 315Nm. Derived from the motor used in F1, it carries the name MGU-K (Motor Generator Unit, Kinetic). The battery has a capacity of 7.45kWh and is composed of 80 cell modules.
In terms of dynamic functions, in addition to the traditional Manettino, it features an "eManettino" selector with four positions for power management.
• eDrive: The internal combustion engine is off, and only electric power drives the rear wheels. It can travel 25km on a full battery charge. Maximum speed: 135km/h.
• Hybrid (H): The default mode upon startup. The power flow is managed to maximize efficiency, and the control logic determines when the internal combustion engine engages. When the engine is running, the vehicle's maximum power and performance are unleashed.
• Performance: The engine is always running to maintain battery efficiency, ensuring full power is available at all times. This setting is ideal for aggressive driving.
• Qualify: Minimizes battery recharging to deliver maximum performance.
• Hybrid (H): The default mode upon startup. The power flow is managed to maximize efficiency, and the control logic determines when the internal combustion engine engages. When the engine is running, the vehicle's maximum power and performance are unleashed.
• Performance: The engine is always running to maintain battery efficiency, ensuring full power is available at all times. This setting is ideal for aggressive driving.
• Qualify: Minimizes battery recharging to deliver maximum performance.
Thanks to the V6 unit, which is 30kg lighter than the traditional V8 Berlinetta, the dry weight is 1,470kg, achieving a class-leading power-to-weight ratio of 1.77kg/cv. The brakes have also been upgraded to "ABSevo." While regenerating energy, the brake-by-wire system minimizes pedal stroke.