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Science Behind The Record-Breaking 230 MPH Toyota Land Cruiser

Summary

  • Toyota’s Land Speed Cruiser, a modified model of the Land Cruiser, reached a record-breaking pace of 230.2 mph.
  • The creation of this high-speed SUV required in depth modifications, together with to the automobile’s aerodynamics, suspension, engine, and tires.
  • The Toyota Motorsport Technical Center, identified for NASCAR automobiles, remodeled the Land Cruiser into a brilliant high-speed automobile.

To assert that the Toyota Land Cruiser is among the most profitable automobiles from the Japanese producer is stating the apparent. Over 10 million units have been built since 1951, a report in itself. However, the Japanese SUV may also boast of different accolades.

Toyota has carved out a spot within the guide of data because of its 2,000 horsepower Land Speed Cruiser. Unveiled on the 2016 SEMA Show, the Toyota Land Speed Cruiser bears little resemblance to the Land Cruiser you may discover at your native Toyota dealership. This marked a pivotal second, capturing the eye of lovers and bystanders alike, and shocking them by breaking the report for max pace for an SUV, one thing unthinkable for the Japanese mannequin till 2016.

This SUV, which began its life as a humble Toyota Land Cruiser, managed to attain a pace of 230.2 mph, roughly 87 mph sooner than the official most pace of the quickest manufacturing Land Cruiser.

This introduced a major problem for the Toyota Motorsport Technical Center (MTC), positioned in Los Angeles, which got down to obtain this feat. They needed to work meticulously on the automobile’s aerodynamics and make the mandatory modifications to show it into one thing able to reaching the aim.

Until that second, this division had been primarily answerable for the event of the race automobiles that Toyota competed with in NASCAR. However, when introduced with the chance to undertake the Land Speed Cruiser mission, they did not hesitate to simply accept the problem.

In order to provide the latest and correct info attainable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from numerous producer web sites and different authoritative sources, together with Toyota.

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It All Starts With The Heavily Modified 5.7-Liter 3UR-FE V-8 Engine

Land Speed Cruiser
Toyota

For the engineers on the Toyota Motorsport Technical Center, this endeavor was not nearly breaking a report; it was a check of their ability and dedication to pushing the boundaries of automotive efficiency.

Every side of the inventory Land Cruiser, a benchmark for off-roading SUVs, needed to be rigorously thought-about and optimized to make sure it might face up to the acute speeds required to set a brand new benchmark. From redesigning the bodywork to fine-tuning the engine and suspension, each element was scrutinized and refined to maximise efficiency and stability.

Nearly All Components Beneath The Bodywork Were Modified

Land Speed Cruiser
Toyota

As you might need guessed, just about all the pieces beneath the bodywork underwent modification. The unique inside disappeared solely, together with all seven seats. The driver’s seat was changed with a contest bucket seat, full with FIA-spec security harnesses. Naturally, an authorized all-encompassing roll cage was added for security, however probably the most vital modification occurred beneath the hood with the engine.

A Standard 5.7-Liter Gasoline V-8 Underwent Significant Modifications

Land Speed Cruiser
Toyota

Those modifications imply nothing with out an engine able to reaching supercar speeds. The basis was a commonplace 5.7-liter gasoline V-8, which produces 376 horsepower and 400 pound ft. In truth, this was probably the most highly effective engine that Toyota supplied at the moment, related to the Land Cruiser within the North American market.

Nevertheless, the engineers remodeled it to competition-worthy ranges: new pistons, solid connecting rods, and different inner parts, together with two monumental turbos Garrett GTX4718R the dimensions of a soccer ball, every blowing at an astonishing 3.8 bars of strain!

Typically shielded by filter parts throughout high-speed operations, the generators of every unit at the moment are visibly uncovered, resembling the unbridled drive of jet engines on an plane, eagerly primed to attract within the surrounding environment.

To put it into perspective, the turbo within the 2.0-liter Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 — one of the vital highly effective inventory turbos — blows at 1.8 bars (which by the way is also the boost pressure of the Bugatti Chiron’s turbos). Due to the quantity of pipework working to and from these turbos, it was essential to relocate the battery from the engine bay to the right-hand nook of the baggage space.

Necessary Measures Were Taken To Avoid Fuel Cavitation During Acceleration

Land Speed Cruiser
Toyota

To mitigate the danger of gas cavitation throughout acceleration, a remote reservoir was integrated into the fuel system. Initially, the liquid is drawn by two pumps positioned throughout the unique tank, which then switch it to an impartial alloy catch tank positioned within the trunk, adjoining to the battery. The upright design of the tank ensures that voids are prevented from forming within the liquid across the pump consumption, thereby making certain a gentle provide of gas to the injectors.

This system operates beneath the supervision of a MoTeC digital management unit, which additionally makes use of a show unit to offer important extra info on the engine’s situation. Following combustion, the exhaust gases endure additional processing facilitated by a high-lift camshaft and ported cylinder heads.

These modified parts information the gases alongside a dynamic pathway by means of a customized Borla exhaust system, exiting from the aspect of the automobile, simply forward of the rear wheels. This redirection of the exhaust gases allowed to flatten the underfloor space and fabricate a rear diffuser.

Additional Tweaks Everywhere

Every side of the unique mannequin underwent meticulous changes or outright replacements. From the chassis to the engine parts, no half remained untouched.

  • The TurboSmart specialist was answerable for the blow-off valve, whereas the intercoolers had been custom-made by Toyota Motorsport’s personal division.
  • The engine displacement was decreased to five,663 CC.
  • The transmission chosen to deal with this energy surge was an eight-speed Weismann computerized gearbox, that includes a moist, centrifugal, and multi-disc clutch.
  • Three gas pumps had been answerable for gas supply.
  • The exhaust system was divided into two huge pipes, positioned on both aspect of the physique.

A Power Output of Nearly 2,000 Horsepower Was Attained

The fruits of those meticulous modifications and engineering enhancements results in an awe-inspiring output: a staggering 1,972 horsepower! This immense energy output propels the Toyota Land Speed Cruiser into the realm of hypercars, turning into a drive to be reckoned with, able to reaching speeds beforehand reserved for under probably the most elite and unique automobiles on the planet.

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The Aerodynamic Modifications Done To Exceed 200 MPH

Land Speed Cruiser
Toyota

Enhancing energy is just a part of the equation. Without reaching stability, the driving force’s means to completely make the most of that energy is compromised, the automobile’s efficiency potential is proscribed and, due to this fact, its longevity on the observe is jeopardized.

Ensuring stability is paramount. This requires a holistic strategy that addresses numerous elements, together with suspension tuning, aerodynamics, tire grip, and chassis rigidity. Each of those parts should work in concord to offer the driving force with confidence-inspiring stability, particularly when pushing the automobile to its limits.

Gaining Stability Meant Comprehensively Redesigning The Suspension System

In the case of the Land Speed Cruiser, reaching stability concerned a complete redesign of its suspension system, which has been meticulously fine-tuned, courtesy of Fox Shox shock absorbers and Eibach springs.

This rigorously calibrated setup not solely enhances the automobile’s stability and dealing with at excessive speeds but additionally contributes to its aggressive stance and aerodynamic effectivity by minimizing drag and downforce. Complementing this dynamic suspension setup are the putting 20″ Momo wheels, which not solely add a contact of fashion but additionally present a strong basis for the automobile’s efficiency capabilities.

Opting For The Appropriate Tires Was Critical

Land Speed Cruiser
Toyota

Furthermore, choosing the suitable tires is paramount for optimizing traction and grip, thereby enhancing stability throughout each acceleration and braking maneuvers. In pursuit of this aim, the Toyota Land Speed Cruiser Concept was outfitted with top-of-the-line Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, famend for his or her distinctive grip and efficiency traits.

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The Goal Was To Revert What Traditionally Was: An Off-Road Vehicle

Land Speed Cruiser
Toyota

The vehicle made its debut was at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, in November 2016. It rapidly grew to become one of many standout sights of the occasion, and its look hinted that this Land Cruiser was no atypical modification. The absence of conventional aspect mirrors, changed by cameras, the huge 20-inch alloy wheels fitted with 315/35 ZR20 tires, and the shiny black paint of the physique hinted that this was no atypical automobile.

Land Speed Cruiser specs

Engine

Rebuilt 3UR-FE 5.7-litre V-8

Horsepower

1972 HP

Transmission

Weismann eight-speed computerized transmission with multi-disc centrifugal moist clutch and electronically-controlled air shifts

Top pace

230 mph

Chassis

20” Momo/TRD alloy wheels with 315/35 R20 Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres, Fox Shox shock absorbers with Eibach decreasing springs

Interior

Stripped of unique seating, customized multi-point roll-cage, Momo bucket seat, Simpson harness, ignition cut-off, plumbed-in hearth extinguisher system

(Data sourced from Toyota)

Its Aerodynamics Have Been Significantly Enhanced Thanks To Key Modifications

In addition to the lowered suspension and low-profile tires, the Land Speed Cruiser Concept undergoes additional alterations to differentiate itself as a high-performance automobile. While the Land Cruiser’s total form poses challenges for aerodynamics, two key modifications have notably improved its aerodynamics.

The first one, decreasing the journey peak by means of customized shocks and comes has decreased high-speed elevate, as beforehand defined. In addition to this, we’ve got the alternate of the elephant-ear door mirrors for glossy rear-facing video cameras, which reduces the automobile’s frontal space. This is a design selection more and more widespread in idea automobiles that additional streamlines the automobile’s profile for improved aerodynamic effectivity.

Combined with different performance-oriented modifications, akin to light-weight supplies and racing-inspired instrumentation, the Land Speed Cruiser Concept represents a daring departure from the normal SUV method.

This Process Proved To Be A Challenge For The Team: Just What They Wanted

Transforming Toyota’s venerable, heavy-duty SUV right into a record-chasing missile was no straightforward process, a truth that’s disguised by its understated exterior look.

This is what makes it so special ,” revealed centre supervisor Chuck Wade, who constructed the Land Speed Cruiser along with his workforce of engineers. “Every single system and component has been touched. The trick was getting the body back on to the heavily modified frame.”

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230 MPH Proved Sufficient To Set A New World Speed Record For Off-Road Vehicles and SUV

Transforming a big, heavy, and unwieldy automobile right into a beast able to outpacing many supercars in a straight line is a problem that few would dare to undertake. However, for Chuck Wade’s workforce, the creators of this monstrous machine, it was an exhilarating endeavor.

NASCAR Driver Carl Edwards Took On The Role Of Piloting The Car

After race driver Craig Stanton fine-tuned the Toyota Land Speed Cruiser on the Arizona Proving Ground (TAPG), owned by Toyota, former NASCAR driver Carl Edwards was tasked with piloting the Toyota Land Speed Cruiser on the two.5-mile-long observe on the Mojave Air and Space Port.

Edwards made the preliminary report try on May 2, 2017. He reached a most pace of 211 mph, though he needed to elevate off the throttle prematurely as a consequence of miscalculating the required braking distance. As a end result, a second try was carried out.

According to him, “at 225 mph, the car was moving from side to side, but I just kept thinking about what Craig Stanton told me: ‘whatever happens, keep the pedal to the metal,’ and we’ll reach 230 mph.”

As the saying goes, “said and done”, the aim was finally achieved. Thanks to the carried out modifications, the Land Speed Cruiser reached 230 mph. This smashed the earlier SUV report by greater than 19 mph!

The Mojave Desert of California Hosted The Record-Setting

The pace report wasn’t set on one in every of North America’s huge salt flats, however quite on a compact 2.5-mile asphalt observe nestled within the Mojave Desert of California, U.S.A.; one of many longest within the U.S. This selection of venue may appear unconventional in comparison with the expansive salt flats sometimes related to high-speed runs, but it proved to be the right setting for Toyota’s Land Speed Cruiser to unleash its full potential.

A Testament To Toyota’s Engineering Team And The Land Speed Cruiser

Land Speed Cruiser
Toyota

This feat was a testomony not solely to the facility of the Land Speed Cruiser but additionally to the ingenuity and experience of Toyota’s engineering workforce. It showcased their means to take a humble SUV and remodel it right into a record-breaking powerhouse, additional solidifying Toyota’s popularity as a pioneer in automotive expertise and efficiency.

By pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering and efficiency, Toyota has as soon as once more demonstrated its dedication to excellence and its means to set new requirements within the trade. The Land Speed Cruiser’s record-breaking achievement just isn’t solely a supply of pleasure for Toyota but additionally a testomony to the limitless prospects that lie forward on this planet of automotive innovation.

Europeans Bought More Toyota GR86s Than Priuses Last Year

Toyota had a record-breaking 2023 in Europe by delivering 1,173,419 autos, together with those who got here with a Lexus badge. The Yaris Cross was the corporate’s hottest product with 195,569 models, adopted by the Corolla household with 166,925 automobiles, and the C-HR with 117,552 autos shipped to prospects. However, different gross sales figures caught our consideration.

The GR86 was bought 4,041 occasions on the Old Continent final yr, subsequently outselling the Prius lineup, which solely mustered 2,755 gross sales. How did it occur? It’s a superb query, particularly since there are many incentives obtainable for these shopping for an electrified automotive in Europe. There are a number of causes we are able to consider. First, the Prius is barely bought there as a plug-in hybrid, with out the self-charging variant. In addition, buyer deliveries of the brand new mannequin did not begin till later within the yr.

Volvo Nearly Built This Boxy Off-Roader In The Nineteen Seventies

Volvo has unearthed sketches of a boxy SUV from the Nineteen Seventies, and Lamborghini had a record-breaking 2023.

This is AM Drive, Motor1’s each day take a look at the information you want earlier than you get in your automotive.

Volvo Uncovers Abandoned SUV Project From The Nineteen Seventies

In the early Nineteen Seventies, Volvo was given extra independence as Volvo Cars was reorganized right into a subsidiary, the Volvo Car Corporation. Despite the oil disaster, the Swedish model had an awesome decade with document gross sales and manufacturing. Several new fashions have been launched all through the last decade. By 1979, the automaker was promoting over 310,000 items yearly.

One mannequin that didn’t materialize right into a manufacturing car was this boxy SUV. Half a century after being left on the proverbial reducing room ground, Volvo’s Heritage division has unearthed sketches of what would’ve been an all-terrain car primarily for Africa. It wasn’t till 2002 the corporate had a sport utility car of its personal but it surely appears the concept of an all-rounder separate from the standard line of sedans and wagons was born within the Nineteen Seventies.

1970s Volvo SUV design sketch
1970s Volvo SUV design sketch

The XC90 was not at all a non secular successor because the thought behind this unnamed car was to provide you with a extra rudimentary car at a cheaper price. Uncovered within the Nineteen Seventies, the three-door car with its rear-mounted spare was peak Volvo boxiness. It had sq. wheel arches and quick overhangs as penned by design supervisor Gunnar Falck after CEO Pehr Gyllenhammar requested him to attract up a car for creating international locations.

Lamborghini Sold 10,112 Cars In 2023, An All-Time High

New Lamborghini Urus S In Italy

Lamborghini established a gross sales document in 2023 when it shipped greater than 10,000 items for the primary time ever. Deliveries rose by 10 p.c to 10,112 automobiles, with the Urus predictably being the driving power behind the robust demand. No fewer than 6,087 SUVs have been bought up to now 12 months when 3,962 folks purchased a Huracan and 63 took supply of a V12 supercar.

The largest single market was the United States with over 3,000 items delivered, adopted by Germany with 961 and China with 845. These have been adopted by United Kingdom (801), Japan (660), the Middle East (496), South Korea (434), Italy (409), Canada (357), Australia (263), France & Monaco (255), Switzerland (211), Taiwan (131), and India (103).

2024 is shaping as much as be an vital yr for Lamborghini contemplating it would replace the Huracan with a new model. The “baby Lambo” is anticipated to lose the naturally aspirated V10 in favor of a downsized turbocharged engine a part of a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Urus can also be getting a PHEV variant this yr to exchange the pure ICE mannequin altogether.

With the rollout of the Aventador-replacing Revuelto, Lamborghini is more likely to lure in additional prosperous patrons into one in all its 184 dealerships unfold throughout 54 international locations. However, new prospects are in for an extended wait. The Italian unique model says it has sufficient orders for the electrified V12 flagship to maintain busy till late 2026.

Ducati Celebrates 2023 Victories With Five Panigale Race Replicas

Panigale 2023 Replica: Ducati collectors’ restricted version to have fun a record-breaking season
The Panigale 2023 Replicas are impressed by the liveries of the bikes of Bagnaia, Bautista, Bulega, Martin and Bezzecchi in MotoGP, WorldSBK and WorldSSP
Four Panigale V4 and one Panigale V2 produced in a restricted and numbered collection, made distinctive by the rider’s authentic signature on the tank, with certificates of authenticity, technical gear and devoted wooden transport crate
The celebratory bikes have been introduced in the course of the “Campioni in Festa” occasion
Sunnyvale, CA (USA) December 15, 2023 – Ducati celebrates the conquest of the MotoGP, WorldSBK and WorldSSP titles with the creation of 5 particular, collector’s version Panigale collection, impressed by the Desmosedici GP of Francesco Bagnaia, Jorge Martín and Marco Bezzecchi, the Panigale V4 R of Álvaro Bautista and Nicolò Bulega’s Panigale V2. The Panigale V4’s devoted to Bagnaia and Bautista take up the yellow livery with which the 2 champions raced within the Misano Grand Prix and SBK Round, celebrating an iconic shade within the Ducati historical past and thus changing into much more iconic.

The bikes have been introduced in the course of the press convention anticipating “Campioni in Festa”, the occasion which Ducati celebrated its historic success along with fanatics.

2023 was an unbelievable 12 months for Ducati: no bike producer had ever been capable of prevail within the MotoGP® and WorldSBK® World Championships for 2 consecutive years. A dream end result, additionally accomplished by the conquest of the WorldSSP title and second and third place within the MotoGP world championship standings, which got here to fruition because of the distinctive work of the engineers, groups and riders. A triumph that Ducati needs to have fun with 5 distinctive bikes, true jewels in restricted and numbered editions.

Each particular person instance of the collection can be made distinctive by the rider’s authentic autograph positioned on the tank, a signature which is able to then be protected with a layer of clear varnish. The 5 replicas have fun the racing numbers of the riders to whom they’re devoted: Pecco Bagnaia’s 63, Álvaro Bautista’s 19, Jorge Martín’s 89, Marco Bezzecchi’s 72 and Nicolò Bulega’s 11.

Like the racing bikes that encourage them, the Panigale 2023 Racing Replicas are provided in single-seater configuration solely. Each is embellished with a billet aluminum steering plate with laser engraving of the mannequin’s identify and progressive quantity, and a devoted key and animation for the dashboard at key-on. In addition, the saddle is product of particular materials, with the rider’s emblem displayed as on the race bike.

The Panigale V4 Bagnaia 2023 World Champion Replica is impressed by probably the most unique livery of the 2024 season, the Ducati Yellow with which the Desmosedici GP of the Ducati Lenovo Team raced the San Marino and Riviera di Rimini GP at Misano. Production is restricted to 263 models.

The Panigale V4 Bautista 2023 World Champion Replica takes up the Ducati Yellow livery of the Panigale V4 R with which Álvaro raced the Misano rounds and race 2 at Jerez de la Frontera. The livery, particularly, is impressed by the one with which Bautista turned WorldSBK World Champion for the second time, at Jerez. Furthermore, just like the Panigale V4 R from which it takes its inspiration, is enhanced by the brushed aluminium gas tank, carbon fiber winglets and Marchesini solid aluminium wheels in mild gray. Production is restricted to 219 models.

The Panigale V4 Martín 2023 Racing Replica takes up the official colours of the Desmosedici GP of the Prima Pramac crew, and is rendered all of the extra distinctive by the carbon fiber entrance fender. Production is restricted to 189 models.

The Panigale V4 Bezzecchi 2023 Racing Replica is impressed by the yellow/black livery of the Desmosedici GP of the Mooney VR46 crew. Production is restricted to 72 models.

These 4 Panigale V4s are primarily based on the “S” mannequin and are enhanced by numerous Ducati Performance parts that make them much more useful and efficient on highway and observe. The technical gear boasts the adoption of the nine-disc STM-EVO SBK dry clutch and the Akrapovič homologated silencer, which is 4.4 lbs lighter than the usual silencer on the Panigale V4. The Brembo braking system is enhanced by Stylema® R calipers and MCS grasp cylinder with distant adjustment. The adjustable footpegs are Rizoma billet aluminum. The plexiglass is a racing model.

Other technical particulars that characterize these particular bikes are the warmth defend for the rear exhaust manifolds, the alternator cowl, the rear mudguard and the entrance brake ducts, all product of carbon fiber. Also in carbon fiber, mixed with titanium, is the duvet defending the single-sided swingarm.

All Panigale V4 Replica bikes are made even nearer to the racing bikes they’re impressed by because of a collection of equipment, such because the open clutch cowl in carbon fiber*, the kits for eradicating the quantity plate holder and mirrors*, the racing gas tank cap in billet aluminum* and the GPS module that permits the show on the dashboard of lap occasions and break up occasions taken on the observe.

The Panigale V2 Bulega 2023 World Champion Replica takes up the pink/black livery of the Panigale V2 of the Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP crew with which Nicolò Bulega received the world title. Production is restricted to 111 models.

The Panigale V2 can also be enhanced with Öhlins suspension and Akrapovič racing silencers*, which improve the utmost energy by 2.5% and the utmost torque by 2% and contribute to decreasing the load of the bike by 11 lbs. The Rizoma rider footpegs are adjustable and created from billet aluminum. The entrance and rear mudguards, chain guard, clutch cowl guard, swingarm guard and shock absorber guard are in carbon fiber. Also, the Panigale V2 devoted to Bulega can get even nearer to the racing bike by becoming the quantity plate and mirror elimination package*, and the billet aluminum racing tank cap*.

Each bike will include a certificates of authenticity and can be delivered in a wood packing case with devoted graphics and a custom-made bike cowl.

All the photographs of the 2023 Panigale Replica bikes can be found on Ducati Media House.

Availability and pricing
Client deliveries of the 2023 Panigale Race Replica’s will start July 2024.

United States pricing can be $43,000 for the Panigale V2 Bulega 2023 World Championship Replica; $63,000 for the Panigale V4 Bezzecchi 2023 Racing Replica; $68,000 for the Panigale V4 Martin 2023 Racing Replica; $73,000 for the Panigale V4 Bagnaia 2023 World Champion Replica; $68,000 for the Panigale Bautista 2023 World Champion Replica.

Canada pricing can be $51,000 for the Panigale V2 Bulega 2023 World Championship Replica; $74,000 for the Panigale V4 Bezzecchi 2023 Racing Replica; $80,000 for the Panigale V4 Martin 2023 Racing Replica; $86,000 for the Panigale V4 Bagnaia 2023 World Champion Replica; $80,000 for the Panigale Bautista 2023 World Champion Replica.

#PanigaleV4 #WorldChampionReplica #RacingReplica

*: Additional gear for automobiles used completely on closed circuits. Use on public roads is prohibited by regulation.

Componentry could range relying on particular nation rules. Please test together with your seller for the precise specs.

Ferrari 296 Challenge: A 690bhp V6 Customer Racer

Ferrari has introduced the 296 Challenge, a track-only version of the 296 GTB, which sets a new record by opting for a pure-petrol V6 engine with 690bhp, excluding the hybrid system.

The car was presented at the 2023 Ferrari Finali event, in celebration of Ferrari’s motorsport participation. It is the latest addition to the series of Ferraris exclusively designed for the customer-only championship racing title, the Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli. Notably, it is the first six-cylinder car to compete in this championship.

The 296 Challenge, priced at €318,000 (£276,851) before taxes, is the ninth racer developed for the series, replacing the V8-powered 488 Challenge.

Andrea Mladosic, the head of Ferrari Challenge, described it as a “giant leap from the analogical to the digital era.” The car will make its debut in the 2024 season of the Ferrari Challenge, with the first race scheduled for April in North America, followed by Europe in May.

The 296 Challenge dispenses with the electrified powertrain of the 296 GTB and instead utilizes a race-modified version of the standard car’s 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. Notably, this is the first time a Ferrari race car outside of Formula 1 has employed a V6 engine since the 1960s.

The engine generates a total output of 690bhp, which is claimed to set a new power record for Ferrari’s racing series. The torque rating is 545lb ft.

When asked about the decision to exclude the hybrid component from the engine, Manuela Cecconi, Ferrari’s non-homologated vehicle leader, explained, “We de-hybridized in favor of weight reduction and ease of use on the track.”

Ferrari states that removing the hybrid system has led to a weight reduction of 140kg, resulting in a total weight of 1330kg for the 296 Challenge.

The use of carbon fiber has also contributed to the weight reduction. Cecconi emphasized that carbon fiber is utilized only “where there is a clear difference in structure, performance, and weight.”

This Custom Viper V10 Motorcycle Breaks Major Speed Records

The Viper V10 motorcycle, powered by a full-fledged car engine, has recently set new speed records. Although it may not be the fastest motorcycle on the market, it is, without a doubt, the quickest one with a production car engine. Its first notable achievement was in 2010 when it became the fastest motorcycle powered by a car engine, reaching a top speed of 207 mph.

At the heart of this incredible machine is an 8.0-liter V10 engine sourced from the Dodge Viper. With its impressive 500 horsepower and 525 lb-ft of torque, the motorcycle produces a distinct sound that separates it from any other bike. The size of the engine adds considerable weight, with the motorcycle weighing in at 1322 pounds (600 kilograms). Nevertheless, the engine can launch the bike from 0-60 mph in just 2.7 seconds and complete a standing mile in 9.5 seconds.

Due to the unconventional engine choice, the bike had to undergo significant modifications. The frame and suspension were strengthened to withstand the engine’s weight and cope with high-speed runs. Additionally, a custom-designed seat was created to accommodate both the rider and a passenger.

Interestingly, the inspiration for the Viper V10 came from the Dodge Tomahawk, a concept vehicle introduced in 2003. The Tomahawk, which was not intended for street use, served as an exhibition piece and never made it into the hands of consumers. In contrast, the Viper V10 is a fully functional motorcycle available to those in the market for a unique riding experience.

The Pint-sized McMurtry Spéirling Is Here To Set The EV Scene On Fire

The McMurtry Spéirling, a record-breaking electric track car, has taken the EV scene by storm. Designed and produced by British-based manufacturer McMurtry Automotive, the Spéirling PURE is the first-ever electric fan car that customers will be able to own and drive. After its spectacular performance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, pre-orders have started pouring in from around the world.

The McMurtry Spéirling’s Unmatched Cornering Grip Takes Precedence Over Sheer Top Speed

The McMurtry Spéirling is a special type of car known as a “fan car,” which utilizes a specially designed fan mounted at the rear to generate downward force and enhance grip on the racetrack. This unique fan system can generate over 4,400 pounds of downward force, providing exceptional cornering grip that enables the car to accelerate and take on corners with incredible ingenuity.

While the Spéirling’s top speed is impressive, it is the exceptional cornering grip on low-speed corners that thrills drivers and spectators. The car’s ability to achieve 3G cornering forces allows drivers to navigate even the harshest corners with minimal deceleration.

Lest We Forget The Incredible Performance At Goodwood Festival Of Speed

The Spéirling gained massive attention after its record-breaking hill climb at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Videos of the event showcased the car’s incredible speed and agility, leaving viewers in awe. The car can go from 0 to 60 mph in under 1.4 seconds and 0 to 186.4 mph in just nine seconds, making it one of the fastest cars in existence.

Furthermore, the Spéirling’s fan system adds a unique feature – a jet-engine-like noise that adds to the thrill of watching the car in action. This noise, typically absent in electric cars, provides the Spéirling with an unexpected yet necessary feature that adds to its overall appeal on the tracks.

McMurtry Spéirling PURE Specs

  • Weight: ~ 2200 pounds (1000kgs)
  • Peak Output: 1,000 horses
  • 0-60 mph: Under 1.4 seconds
  • Top Speed: 190 mph
  • Battery: 60 kWh
  • Charge Type: Fast charge (under 20 minutes)
  • Chassis: Carbon Fibre Monocoque

The Spéirling’s impressive performance is a result of meticulous engineering inspired by Formula 1 and aerospace industries. The car’s lightweight construction and powerful engine give it a power-to-weight ratio of close to 1:1. Its streamlined body and exceptional tires provide maximum aerodynamics and grip on the track.

Production Car Will Be Even Better Than The Goodwood Car

The Spéirling PURE, an enhanced version of the Goodwood record-breaking car, will make its debut at this year’s Goodwood festival. Several improvements have been incorporated into the new version, including increased fan and gearbox efficiency, wider tires, and a better battery thermal management system. These enhancements allow the car to complete multiple full-race circuit laps and recharge faster during racing.

McMurtry Automotive plans to commercially produce the Spéirling, giving customers the opportunity to own and drive this exclusive car. However, production will be limited to only 100 pieces, each priced at a little over $1 million.