FXX programme extended for further two years
thanks to new evolution kit developed with assistance of Client Test-Drivers
Maranello 28th October 2007 – 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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