"We chose to call this model LaFerrari, because it is the maximum expression of what defines our company - excellence. Excellence in terms of technological innovation, performance, visionary styling and the sheer thrill of driving. LaFerrari is the finest expression of our company's unique, unparalleled engineering and design know-how, including that acquired in Formula 1," declared Ferrari's President, Luca di Montezemolo at the unveiling of the Enzo 2.0, pardon us, the LaFerrari at the ongoing Geneva Motor Show to much fanfare.
Following a lineage of halo cars from the original GTO to the Enzo Ferrari, the LaFerrari, experiments with new technological solutions which will be featured in its future road cars.
The Prancing Horse of Maranello also possesses a partially green heart, due in part to the hybrid powertrain system which is based on Formula One technology. Known as HY-KERS, it represents the perfect combination of maximum performance and lower emissions - of just 330g/km of CO2.
The hybrid system is composed of two electric motors developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli. One motor powers the wheels while the second the ancillaries - and a battery pack that are charged either in braking or from excess torque that is converted to energy and stored.
Tifosi have nothing to fear as the hybrid powertrain construction has not softened the performance expected of a Ferrari Supercar. The 6.3-litre V12 produces 789bhp and revs to a high 9,250rpm, for a specific output of 126bhp per litre.
Ferrari claims the LaFerrari takes less than three seconds to hit the century mark and a top speed of 329km/h. The car also laps the famed Fiorano track under 1 minute 20 seconds - five seconds faster than its predecessor, and over three seconds faster than the F12berlinetta.
To keep weight down, Ferrari replicated engineering practices of its F1 team to treat four different types of carbon fibre for the chassis by hand lamination and autoclave-curing.
The cabin features fixed and tailored seats while both the pedal box and steering wheel are adjustable. The driving position is akin to Ferrari's single seat racers and was designed in collaboration with the Scuderia Ferrari team driver - Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa.
A newly designed steering wheel houses all the major commands on top of longer and more ergonomic gear shift paddles. Ferrari claims the interior has adopted a track-inspired guise.
