Lamborghini is
applying the same package of weight saving measures
coupled to a performance step that was applied to the
latest Superleggara earlier this year to its open-topped
sister, creating the Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante.
As “Performante”,
the Gallardo Spyder now lighter thanks to CFRP technology,
the engineers in Sant’Agata Bolognese managing to reduce the weight of the new Spyder Performante by a further 65 kilograms (143 lbs). The
open sports car tips the scales with a dry weight
of no more than 1.485 kilograms (3.274 lbs) – a new best
for that highly exclusive market segment occupied by
Lamborghini.
Just like its “brother”, the Gallardo LP 570-4
Superleggera, the light weight of the Spyder Performante
is due in large part to exterior and interior components
made from carbon-fiber. These carbon-composite materials
are perfectly suited to super sports cars because they
combine reduced weight with improved technical
characteristics. Performance is optimized as a result of
lower weight, while CO2 emissions are reduced.
The V10 power unit with a displacement of 5.2 liters
generates 419 kW (570 hp) in the Spyder Performante and
guarantees superb performance – it catapults the
open-top LP 570-4 from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in a
mere 3.9 seconds and keeps on going to a top speed of
324 km/h (201 mph). The engine with “Iniezione Diretta
Stratificata” gasoline direct injection boasts extremely
impressive pulling power and a wide rev
range.
Design and aerodynamics
The elegance of every Lamborghini rests on its extreme
power and precise function. The design of the Gallardo
LP 570-4 Spyder Performante, too, concentrates on the
essence of the design language. Its
profile follows the contours of a dynamic wedge
measuring 4.39 meters long, 1.90 meters wide, but only
1.18 meters high. Open or closed, the top of the Spyder Performante can handle the very highest speeds.
From the very first glance, the Spyder Performante is
clearly recognizable as the open-top counterpart to the
Gallardo Superleggera.
The exterior modifications are all directed at
increasing the aerodynamic effect in comparison to the
Gallardo Spyder. Working closely with wind tunnel
experts, designers from Lamborghini’s Centro Stile
remodeled the front bumper – three-dimensional, deeply
recessed elements form trapezoidal frames for the large
air intakes. Together with the V-shaped, sharply defined
nose and the LED daytime running lights, the black
elements give the front end a sharp look. The
design also optimizes the supply of cooling air and
improves the downforce on the front axle.
Modifications to the fully-covered underbody, new sill
elements and a redesigned diffuser incorporating four
large tailpipes also help to achieve better aerodynamic
results. A large optional rear spoiler is also available
for the Spyder Performante
The bodyshell
Its bodyshell is made from aluminum, with cast node
elements and extruded profile forming an extremely stiff
framework into which the aluminum panels are integrated.
The spaceframe structure is extremely impact-resistant
and forms the basis for the super sports car’s precise
handling.
Against this background, the task of reducing weight by
a further 65 kilograms (143 lbs) compared to the
Gallardo Spyder presented a huge challenge to the
engineers. The Lamborghini experts handled the task as
they usually do – with hi-tech competence and aesthetic
flair. With its minimal weight and extremely high
stiffness, carbon-fiber is the ideal material for a
super sports car. The large panel covering the soft-top,
engine and transmission is a complex and extremely
high-quality carbon fiber component. Engineers also
selected carbon-fiber for the rear spoiler, sills,
diffuser, parts of the underbody paneling and the fine
exterior mirror casings.
Carbon-fiber materials in the interior
Altogether, carbon-fiber components make up around 40%
of the 65 kilograms saved. In the interior, too,
engineers aimed to reduce weight as much as possible.
The center tunnel cover, the door panels and the
surround of the e-gear automated manual transmission
lever are made from carbon-fiber. The high-end material
is also used for the sports seats’ shells, where they
make a significant contribution to overall weight
reduction.
Just like the rest of the cockpit, the sports seats are
clad in lightweight Alcantara instead of leather.
However, weight reduction at Lamborghini certainly does
not mean sacrifice – the Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder
Performante still comes with air conditioning and
electric windows as standard.
The extent to which Lamborghini values the very highest
level of craftsmanship is immediately evident
in the interior of the Spyder Performante. All parts are
perfectly designed and assembled down to the very last
detail; high-quality materials indulge the senses. The
interior retains a sporty black finish in Alcantara. As
contrasting colors for seat stitching, customers can
choose from green, yellow, orange and two shades of
gray. They match exterior paint finishes in Giallo
Midas, Arancio Borealis, Grigio Telesto, Nero Noctis and
Bianco Monocerus.
The engine
In the Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante, LP stands
for “Longitudinale Posteriore” and refers to the
orientation of the V10 engine – which is mounted
longitudinally behind the driver, just like every
Lamborghini engine. The number 570 refers to the maximum
power output in hp, which equates to 419 kW and is
available at 8,000 rpm. Equally impressive is the
pulling power – the torque curve peaks at 540 Nm (398,3
ft lbs) at 6,500 rpm. The increase of 7 kW (10 hp) is
the result of the new dedicated engine management
strategy.
The V10 has a displacement of 5,204 cm3 and achieves a
specific output of 80.5 kW (109.6 hp) per liter. Special
features on this long-stroke engine with an aluminum
crankcase include dry sump lubrication and a cylinder
angle of 90 degrees. Both solutions lower the center of
gravity, thus improving handling dynamics. To ensure
ideal combustion chamber fill, the engine has an
adjustable intake manifold and continuous control of the
chain-driven camshafts.
The crankshaft is conceived as a dual-plane crank – the
connecting rods of opposing pistons share one bearing.
This configuration delivers alternating ignition
intervals of 54 and 90 degrees; a unique sequence that
is the reason for the compelling, racing car-like sound
of the V10. As the revs rise, resounding bass notes are
overlaid with razor sharp harmonics.
The powerful V10, combined with the model’s weight
reduction, gives the Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder
Performante good performance. The sprint from
zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes just 3.9 seconds.
Drive continues relentlessly to a top speed of 324 km/h
(201 mph).
Power transmission
The Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante comes with the
e-gear transmission operated via steering wheel paddles,
as standard. The automated system with electronic
management shifts through its six gears extremely
smoothly and far more quickly than could be achieved by
human reflexes.
The e-gear control unit has three operating modes, two
of which are also available in automatic. The “Thrust
mode” delivers maximum off-the-line performance and is
programmed to manage starting revs of around 5,000 rpm
with minimal wheel slip.
Every single kilometer in the Gallardo Spyder
Performante – not least because of
the relentless traction in practically every situation.
This is largely attributable to the four driven wheels,
as indicated by the number 4 in the model name.
The permanent all-wheel drive incorporates a central
viscous coupling and a 45 percent limited slip
differential on the rear axle. In normal circumstances,
the power delivered by the V10 is channeled with a ratio
of 30:70 to the front and rear axles. The weight
distribution of the superlight Gallardo is 43/57 percent
front/rear.
In 1993, the Diablo VT was the first Italian super
sports car with an all-wheel drive set-up, and
Lamborghini has been steadily consolidating its
leadership ever since. In fact, thanks to the car’s
superior traction, Lamborghini drivers can accelerate
earlier out of a bend than drivers of rear-wheel drive
cars.
The running gear
The Gallardo Spyder Performante is a highly-concentrated
driving machine – it thrills with breathtaking cornering
speeds and fast, immediate reflexes. Its handling is
always precise, stable and predictable.
The running gear layout is derived directly from
motorsport. The suspension features aluminum double
wishbones, while the precise rack-and-pinion steering
keeps the driver closely connected with the road. Its
specific set-up enables the running gear to reach its
full dynamic potential.
Another special feature of the Gallardo Spyder
Performante is the incredibly light 19-inch wheels –
identical to those on the Gallardo Superleggera – which
save 13 kilograms (28.6 lb). The wheel bearings and
bolts are made from titanium and are also incredibly
light and stiff. The tires are 235/35 at the front and
295/30 at the rear and come from the Pirelli P Zero
Corsa series. Developed specifically for the new top
model in the Gallardo range, they are closely related to
pure race rubber.
Behind the huge wheels are brakes that deliver
uncompromising stopping power and are managed by the
standard-fit ESP stability control system. The front
wheels are served by aluminum eight-piston calipers,
with four-piston units at the rear. The ventilated brake
discs have diameters of 365 and 356 millimeters (ø 14.37
x 1.34 in and 14.02 x 1.26 in) respectively. As an
optional extra, Lamborghini can fit extremely
fade-resistant and lightweight discs made from
carbon-fiber ceramic with six-piston calipers up front.
The front ceramic discs have a diameter of 380
millimeters (ø 15 x 1.5 in).
Equipment
Alongside its specialized carbon-fiber lightweight
components, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder
Performante is delivered ex-works with an array of other
high-end features. Highlights include the e-gear
transmission – the manual gearbox is available at no
additional cost – the dedicated chassis set-up, the
Pirelli P Zero Corsa sports tires and the sports seats.
Alcantara upholstery and a hand-stitched steering wheel
clad in suede set accents in the interior.
The range of special equipment is quite particular. For
the interior, Lamborghini offers special floor mats and
leather steering wheels, a storage package and an alarm
system. An additional carbon-fiber package includes
center console and instrument panel trim, the parking
brake handle, the lower part of the steering wheel and
the door handles.
Further special equipment enhances comfort and
convenience - the multimedia navigation system, the
lifting system for raising the front of the car, a
garage door opener and a rear view camera. Customers
wanting to personalize their Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder
Performante can refer to the wide-ranging options of
Lamborghini’s “Ad Personam” individualization program.
Competence
With this year’s presentation of the best-in-class
Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera at the Geneva Auto Salon
and the unveiling of the ultra-light Sesto Elemento at
the Paris Motor Show, Lamborghini has again displayed
its clear leadership in the field of carbon fiber
technology. Here, Lamborghini is building on a
thirty-year history – in 1983, Lamborghini used carbon
fiber reinforced plastics to build the famous Countach.
The engine cover panel of the Gallardo Spyder and Spyder
Performante is one of the largest CFRP components with
class A surface quality in the automotive world. As a
100 percent subsidiary of AUDI AG, the Italian super
sports car manufacturer further benefits from the
lightweight construction competence of its parent
company.
The company is now working steadily to expand its
worldwide leading position. In the new Advanced
Composites Research Center (ACRC) at company
headquarters in Sant’Agata Bolognese, Automobili
Lamborghini S.p.A. is working on innovative construction
and production methods for carbon-fiber elements in
automobile design.
The Advanced Composite Research Center in Sant’Agata
Bolognese secures leadership in the research into
innovative materials and production methods for
carbon-fiber reinforced plastics with low production
volumes. More than 30 experts work here on the
development of vehicle components of all types and
sizes. The specialists build prototypes and their
associated tools, and devise optimum production methods.
With sophisticated systems developed largely in-house,
engineers can precisely and reliably simulate the
technical characteristics and collision behavior of the
components. Thanks to the extensively patented “RTM
Lambo” process, Lamborghini is able to manufacture CFRP
parts to the highest quality, precision and surface
finish under low pressure and at relatively low
temperatures. Higher process speeds, lower costs and
simple tooling are further benefits.
The Lamborghini Advanced Composite Structures Laboratory
(ACSL) at the University of Washington tests the
behavior of a range of materials and technologies in
line with the principles adopted by the aviation
industry. Scientists in Seattle are working closely with
the Technical Development Department at Lamborghini
headquarters in Sant’Agata Bolognese.
At the 2010 Paris Motor Show, Lamborghini once again
demonstrated its outstanding expertise in carbon-fiber
lightweight engineering with the Sesto Elemento concept
car – the extent of the application of innovative
materials is unparalleled. The overall weight of the
Sesto Elemento – despite its V10 power plant and
all-wheel drive – was limited to just 999 kilograms.
Every new Lamborghini will benefit from the advanced
technologies in the Sesto Elemento.
