Ferrari’s latest hybrid supercar, the F80, drops out of the sky as the most powerful V6 hybrid to have ever emerged from the gates of Maranello, and will be limited to just 799 units. Quite likely they’ve all been sold already. With a combined maximum power of 1184 bhp, the F80 features a V6-hybrid powertrain that produces 888 bhp from the internal combustion engine alone, while an additional 296 bhp comes from the electric motors. This setup not only gives the F80 its unprecedented power but also integrates cutting-edge hybrid technology to deliver a combination of high performance and improved efficiency.
Ferrari’s commitment to motorsport-derived technology is evident in the design of the F80’s powertrain, which draws from the architecture of the 499P that won two consecutive 24 Hours of Le Mans races. The introduction of electric turbo technology, with electric motors between the turbine and compressor, enables instant response and extraordinary power delivery from low engine speeds. This technical innovation, combined with an aerodynamic design that generates 1000 kilogrammes of downforce at 250 kmph, makes the F80 ballistic for both the track and the road.
The car’s architecture includes a narrower cabin with a driver-focused layout, providing comfort for both driver and passenger while maintaining an emphasis on aerodynamic efficiency. Advanced suspension systems and four-wheel drive capability further enhance the driving experience, ensuring the F80 performs equally well in all conditions.
A defining feature of the F80 is its lightweight construction, achieved through the extensive use of carbon fibre in both the chassis and the body. This material choice allows the F80 to deliver superior performance without compromising on durability or safety. The car’s aerodynamics are also a critical element of its design, with features such as an active rear wing, rear diffuser, and flat underbody working together to reduce drag and increase downforce. Ferrari’s engineers have focused on ensuring every detail of the F80 contributes to its overall performance, from the heat management system to the advanced braking technology derived from motorsport applications.
The hybrid powertrain, which includes two electric motors on the front axle and one at the rear, provides four-wheel drive and significantly enhances the car’s handling. This system also incorporates energy regeneration technology, with the ability to recover energy during braking and store it in the high-voltage battery. An array of advanced electronic control systems include Ferrari’s latest version of its Side Slip Control (SSC) system and an eManettino with three driving modes – Hybrid, Performance, and Qualify. The F80 is equipped with a new Boost Optimisation function, which uses track data to automatically deliver extra power where it is most needed during a race.
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