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The innovative FXX programme, launched by
Ferrari in June 2005, is now being extended
to 2008/2009 thanks to a new evolution
package, which further improves the car's
handling and performance. |
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The
innovative FXX programme, based on the eponymous
prototype car and launched by Ferrari in June 2005, is
being extended to 2008/2009. The FXX, which is the most
advanced GT ever created at Maranello, has been updated
with an evolution package aimed at further improving its
handling and performance. The package was developed as a
result of Ferrari's collaboration with its Client Test
Drivers and with the invaluable support of Michael
Schumacher. The FXXs equipped with this package will
also sport a new livery in addition to new rear wing
profiles.
The FXX is not homologated for road use and there are no
plans to compete with it either. In fact, the FXX
prototype is designed exclusively for track driving as
part of a specific R&D programme agreed with a selected
group of just over 20 clients involving 14 group test
sessions and 14 private ones in the last two years.
Thanks to readings taken over the 16,500 kilometres of
tests carried out in 2006 and the 18,500 kilometres
covered in 2007, the modifications made to the car have
focused on honing its aerodynamics, running gear and
electronics. Seven-times Formula 1 World Champion
Michael Schumacher also joined the ranks of the client
test drivers and gave the programme the benefit of his
vast experience on several occasions.
Maranello's engineers studied the wealth of information
gained to develop a kit which will cut the FXX's Fiorano
lap time to under 1'16'' (previously it was 1'18''). The
FXX's 6262 cc V12 engine can now punch out a massive 860
hp at 9500 rpm. Gearshifting takes just 60 ms, a drop of
20 ms on the previous time, and the gear ratios have
been adapted to make use of the extra 1000 rpm now
delivered by the engine.
The car's new traction control system, developed in
close collaboration with the GES Racing Division
engineers, gives the driver a choice of no less than
nine different settings (plus the off position) which
are selected using a switch on the central tunnel. This
means that the driver really can modify the car's
behaviour on the track from corner to corner, just as
the Formula 1 drivers do to maximise performance and
reduce tyre wear. The FXX's traction control is also now
less invasive and more flexible, adapting more
efficiently to the individual driving style of each
driver - a requirement pinpointed when this very extreme
car was being driven on the track by non-professional
drivers.
The FXX's special 19" Bridgestone tyres now last longer
too thanks to a new car setup and new front suspension
geometry, while the Brembo brakes, which boast large
Composite Ceramic Material (CCM) discs, are more
efficient with the result that the brake pads last twice
as long. Thanks to the drivers' feedback the Ferrari
engineers have also developed new aerodynamic solutions
aimed at increasing downforce over the rear axle. The
FXX now sports a new rear diffuser, nolder and rear
flaps which have combined to increase aerodynamic
efficiency by 25% overall. The active front spoiler
control system settings have been adjusted to take these
modifications into account too. New telemetry monitoring
of the steering angle and brake pump pressure will
further boost the interaction between Client test
drivers and the company's engineers also. From next year
onwards, it will be possible for drivers to have two
extra video cameras mounted on their car in addition the
existing rear-facing one. This will, of course, give the
drivers excellent rear visibility without having to
impinge in any way on the car's aerodynamics.
The FXX evolution package includes participation in a
series of track events that Ferrari is organising at
international circuits for 2008/2009. Six events are
planned for each year (two in North America, two in
Europe and two in Asia). In addition to these, the FXXs
will also be participating, as per tradition, in the
prestigious end-of-season Ferrari World Finals.
As happened in 2006/2007, the cars will be backed up at
each event by a 15-member official team made up of
engineers, electronics experts and mechanics capable of
providing complete assistance to clients. Needless to
say, the latter will still be able to organise their own
private individual track sessions in their car as well.
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