As the Ferrari F40 debuted on the company’s 40th anniversary, the F80 debuts on its 80th.
Ferrari has pulled the wraps off its latest flagship supercar, the F80. Limited to just 799 examples, the F80 represents the pinnacle of Ferrari’s engineering prowess, combining a hybrid powertrain, cutting-edge aerodynamics, and innovative chassis technology to deliver unprecedented performance.
Hybrid Powertrain Delivers Explosive Performance
At the heart of the F80 is a hybrid powertrain that pairs a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine with three electric motors. The internal combustion engine alone produces an astonishing 900 horsepower, giving it the highest specific output of any Ferrari road car engine at 300 hp per liter. Combined with the electric motors, total system output reaches an eye-watering 1,200 horsepower.
The V6 engine employs technology derived from Ferrari’s successful 499P Le Mans race car, including the crankcase, timing system, and high-pressure fuel injection. For the first time in a Ferrari road car, the F80 utilizes electric turbochargers (e-turbos) to virtually eliminate turbo lag and provide instantaneous throttle response.
Three electric motors – two on the front axle and one at the rear – provide additional power and torque vectoring capabilities. The high-voltage battery pack has a capacity of 2.3 kWh and can deliver up to 242 kW of power. An innovative cell-to-pack design using Formula 1-derived lithium cell chemistry helps minimize weight and volume.
Aerodynamic Innovations Generate Massive Downforce
The F80’s aerodynamics package is the most advanced ever fitted to a Ferrari road car, generating an incredible 1,000 kg of downforce at 250 km/h. Key features include:
- A front triplane wing inspired by Formula 1 and WEC race cars
- An S-Duct that channels air from under the nose to over the hood
- A massive 1,800 mm long rear diffuser that generates over 50% of rear downforce
- An active rear wing that can adjust both height and angle of attack
The aerodynamics work in concert with an advanced active suspension system to optimize downforce in all driving conditions. At low speeds, the system prioritizes mechanical balance, while at higher speeds it works with the active aero elements to maintain ideal aerodynamic balance through corners.
Chassis and Suspension Push Technological Boundaries
The F80 utilizes a multi-material chassis approach, with a carbon fiber passenger cell, aluminum subframes, and strategic use of titanium fasteners. Compared to the LaFerrari, torsional rigidity is up 50% while weight is reduced by 5%.
An all-new active suspension system employs four independent electric actuators powered by a 48V electrical system. This allows for precise control of vehicle dynamics and ride height to optimize both handling and aerodynamic performance. For the first time on a Ferrari road car, the upper suspension wishbones are created using 3D printing and additive manufacturing techniques.
The braking system introduces Ferrari’s new CCM-R Plus carbon ceramic technology, developed with Brembo. These next-generation carbon ceramic discs offer 100% higher mechanical strength and 300% better thermal conductivity compared to previous CCM discs.
Interior Focused on Driver Engagement
Despite its extreme performance capabilities, the F80’s interior is designed for both track and road use. The cabin layout is described as a “1+” configuration, with the driver clearly positioned as the focal point. A new, more compact steering wheel improves visibility and ergonomics.
The passenger seat is integrated into the cabin trim and set further back, allowing for a narrower cockpit that reduces frontal area. This asymmetric layout also allowed engineers to optimize the carbon fiber structure on each side of the car for safety and weight savings.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
Even with its track-focused design, the F80 comes equipped with a full suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Driver Drowsiness and Attention Warning
Innovative Drive Modes and Performance Features
The F80 introduces several new drive modes and performance features:
- Hybrid: Default mode balancing efficiency and performance
- Performance: Optimized for extended track sessions
- Qualify: Maximum power output for fastest lap times
- Boost Optimization: Learns track layout to deliver extra power where most beneficial
With its combination of hybrid power, aerodynamic excellence, and chassis innovations, the Ferrari F80 sets a new benchmark for road-going supercar performance. Limited production of just 799 units ensures this technological tour de force will be as exclusive as it is capable.
