Ferrari Dreamcars

Brakes on Ferrari park

2010-11-02T01:40:00.000-07:00

The opening of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the world's largest indoor theme park, has been delayed due to the death of a ruler in another part of the United Arab Emirates, organisers said on Thursday.

The postponement until November 4 came after the ruler of the tiny but strategic emirate of Ras al-Khaimah, Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed al-Qassimi, died on Wednesday at the age of 92.

The park had been due to be inaugurated on October 27, but it will still open before before Abu Dhabi hosts the eagerly awaited final Grand Prix in this year's tightly contested Formula One world championship.

Despite the delay, journalists were allowed inside the park which features a record-breaking roller coaster ride meant to emulate the feeling of being in a Ferrari F1 car.

Sitting next to the futuristic Yas Marina circuit that hosts the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the theme park is housed under a massive triangular red roof on the $40-billion Yas Island development.

Ferrari World spreads about 86 000m², while the red roof bearing the world's largest logo of Ferrari's prancing horse stretches about 200 000m².

Among its 20 attractions are two roller coasters, including the F1-themed Formula Rossa which is set to be the fastest ever reaching a top speed of 240 kilometres per hour.

Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates capital, hopes the park will help to draw tourists from around the globe along with several other ambitious projects including state-of-the-art branches of the Louvre and Guggenheim museums.

Oakley Design Ferrari 458 Italia At SEMA

2010-11-01T04:24:00.000-07:00

British tuner Oakley, better known for their unique Porsches, will unveil a production version of their special Ferrari 458 Italia during this year’s SEMA show in Las Vegas. The car will be featured in HRE booth, which is relevant becasue it actually has HRE lightweight, high-strength custom forged alloys wheels, specially made for the 458.

Oakley’s 458 also sports a distinctive aero kit with a front spoiler (ugly) a rear spoiler (magnificent) which both add a considerable amount of downforce at high speed, while the airflow is improved with the central radiator vent, radiator exhausts next to the headlights, stylized side sills, and new rear and underbody diffuser.

All that aerodynamic tweaks are much needed becasue of what they’ve done to the engine. They’ve remapped ECU, a larger carbon-fiber air intake box, larger ram air feeds and larger diameter white silicon pipes with Oakley Design logos connecting the air boxes to the intake.

The result of that is ten percent more power, from 562hp to 618hp and five percent more torque from 540 Nm to 567 Nm, and the result of that is 0.4-second improvement in 0 to 60 acceleration and top speed of 330 km/h.

Video: Lexus LF-A vs Ferrari 599 HGTE

2010-10-23T11:06:00.000-07:00

US magazine Car&Driver released a new great video, a comparison test between Ferrari 599 with the optional HGTE handling package and the Lexus LF-A. Both cars have similar performance but the Lexus, being more exclusive and all, is more expensive. Now, that’s kinda funny becasue between these two if you pay more you will end up with the worse badge! So the LF-A must be extraordinarily good to drive, so it can justify its insane price tag. But is it? Watch this video, you may find the answer!

The Secret Behind The World's Fastest Ferrari

2010-10-21T03:21:00.000-07:00

A Washington Ferrari collector set a world speed record for a Ferrari last week, with an average 275.4 mph in a 288 GTO. The secret to its speed? A 540-ci Chevy big block, boosted by twin turbos. Enzo, meet Louis.

The run by Steve Trafton, 64, in his 1985 288 GTO came after two years of work and previous attempts at the record. The 8.8-liter GM engine gets fed by two Borg Warner turbos producing about 17 psi, good for somewhere between 2,000 and 2,500 hp.

Trafton, a retired investment banker with several other Ferraris in his garage, had the car built by Texas Ferrari expert Bob Norwood, and drove the car himself on the Bonneville Salt Flats earlier this month for the AA/Blown Fuel Modified Sport record. That class requires engines larger than 500 cubic inches.

"Ours is stock body," Trafton told the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. "It not only holds the world speed record for its class, it's the world's fastest Ferrari and the world's fastest sports car," he said.

But the question remains: is a Ferrari without a prancing horse on its engine block still a Ferrari? The answer will have to get hashed out without Trafton, who says he's retiring the 288 from speed record chasing to focus on his other hobbies, such as extreme kayaking.

Video: Ferrari 458 Italia Challenge Lapping Monza

2010-10-20T12:46:00.000-07:00

Ferrari 458 Italia Challenge, as I’m sure you know, is the official racing version of the supercar made for its one-make racing series. It will replace the current F430 Challenge next season, but until then it’s got plenty of free time. So every once in a while Ferrari engineers take one out on the track to tweak it a little bit, make it a bit better. Here’s a footage of one of those occasions the Challenge been out flexing muscle around Monza race track. Enjoy the noise!

Twin-Turbo Ferrari Enzo Sets 238 MPH Record

2010-10-17T02:18:00.000-07:00

The Twin-Turbo Ferrari Enzo overcame early problems to set a class record speed of 238 mph at Bonneville this weekend. It's now both the fastest and most driven (31,366 miles) Enzo ever.

Richard Losee's twin-turbo Enzo attempted numerous passes to set a record but faced issues getting in the proper tune and, when the car was setup, an improperly deploying chute. Despite these challenges, the team was able to get everything dialed in properly for a last run.

"I had to leave for the airport literally right when we made the run as I was headed for a race in Phoenix," said tuner Shane Tecklenburg. "I was changing the tune up while we were towing the car back to the pit and I left immediately afterward not really knowing if what I had done would be enough to get them there."

It worked, and they set a speed of 238.142 mph and average run of 237.81 mph, setting a Class C (360 cubic-inch) Blown Fuel Modified Sport category and overall Enzo top-speed record.

Japanese Grand Prix: Ferrari's Fernando Alonso closing in on Red Bull's Mark Webber

2010-10-10T14:16:00.000-07:00

However, while doubts continue to rumble about the readiness of the race, the five championship contenders cannot afford to be distracted.

Focus and concentration will be of paramount importance and there is none stronger in this regard than Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso.

The Spaniard sits tied for second place with Sebastian Vettel, 14 points behind the German’s Red Bull team-mate Mark Webber, who will arrive at the track in South Korea’s coastal Yeongam province with a dominant machine.

Alonso is quietly confident he has what it takes to beat both Red Bulls over the next three races.

Describing his third place in Sunday's Japanese Grand Prix as “damage control”, he warned Webber and Vettel they would not have it all their own way from now on.

“We knew before coming here that third was probably our maximum position,” Alonso said. “But we are convinced that this was the worst track of the remaining races for us.

"We only lost three points in the championship, so overall we have to be extremely happy. When we arrive at circuits with more difficulties for Red Bull we need to take our opportunities.”

No one knows quite what to expect of the Korean International Circuit. Charlie Whiting, the FIA’s race director and safety delegate, begins a two-day 'final inspection’ on Monday.

But with Bernie Ecclestone, Formula One’s commercial rights holder, having stated categorically over the weekend that the race would take place, Whiting is not expected to fail it at this late stage.

This despite the fact that the FIA may be breaking its own rules in allowing the race to take place. The final inspection “should” have taken place in late July according to the governing body’s statutes.

As it is, the final layer of tarmac went down only last week. Rumours of chaos and confusion abound.

Alonso is licking his lips. “Always something happens, and if something happens we can take the opportunity,” he said.

Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo is backing Alonso’s team-mate, Felipe Massa, to make a difference.

The Brazilian, who is not in the title race and is therefore expected to support Alonso, crashed out on the opening corner on Sunday. “I’m sure that Felipe will be the surprise of the last three races of the season,” Di Montezemolo said.

“After this bad day he will be desperately keen to react and we will do everything to give him the possibility to win.”

Meanwhile, Mercedes have rejected reports that Michael Schumacher could lose his drive at the end of this season and take up a management role at the team.

Mercedes Motorsport vice-president Norbert Haug said: “There is more credibility in Norbert Haug becoming an F1 driver than in Michael Schumacher becoming sporting director of Mercedes.”

Ferrari Video

2010-10-04T06:27:00.000-07:00

Chasing the new 2010 Ferrari 458 Italia. Check out the Video.

Ferrari World Officially Open by the End of October

2010-10-04T04:21:00.000-07:00

All Ferrari fans are looking forward to this ever since the first news about the Ferrari World got released. Today we can tell you that the Ferrari Theme Park in Abu Dhabi will officially be opened on October 27th, 7 pm.

Standard tickets cost 225 UAE Dirhams ($ 61 – € 45) for visitors over 1m50, and 165 AED ($ 45 – € 33) for kids. Premium tickets, which provide access to an exclusive lounge with refreshments as well as other as-yet unannounced benefits, cost 375 AED ($ 102 – € 75) for visitors over 1m50 and 270 AED ($ 74 – € 54) for the younger Ferrari fans.

Important to know is that the October opening is meant as a soft launch, and only exterior features will be available to visitors. A full-blown grand opening will follow this December, when the full park will open up to the public.

2010-10-01T04:48:00.000-07:00

Ferrari has made a new three-hugging step at the Paris Auto Show, as the company has introduced the Ferrari California with the new HELE (High Emotion Low Emissions) system.

The automotive producer’s new technology doesn’t include any hybrid hardware. Instead, it uses less radical solutions to cut CO2 emissions and increase efficiency.

The technology uses multiple electronic toys, such as a stop/start system that only needs 230 miliseconds to restart the engine (Ferrari promises that this will not alter the driving experience). The system has also been optimized for special race-driving techniques, such as left-foot braking.

“Once again, the technicians’ goal with this technology was to improve fuel consumption levels and sportiness in tandem. They have done so using features designed specifically to allow the driver to restart the engine not just by releasing the brake pedal, but also by using the accelerator pedal (ideal for people who left-foot brake) or the UP paddle mounted on the steering wheel,” stated the press release.

The HELE system acts like an electronic brain for a number of components including the air-conditioning system’s compressor, fuel pump, engine fan and uses an adaptive control function for the gearbox that is aimed at increasing efficiency. The system also adds a 25 Nm boost that the driver can access when necessary (or just desired).

The eco incarnation of the Ferrari California comes with CO2 emissions reduced from 299 grams per km to 270 grams per km. As for the urban driving cycle, this sees the vehicle reduce its emissions by 23 percent.

2011 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti undergoing tests at Fiorano

2010-09-29T11:13:00.000-07:00

Well it seems that Ferrari is all set to find alternatives for the betterment of the company, which is as seen on the company’s Fiorano test circuit and if going by the videos of the tests it seems that it may be the new 2011 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti.

But we can’t decide or predict about the car or any sort of releases but as far as this car is concerned then Ferrari has made a proclamation that the new Scaglietti would make a mark for the dealership and would surely find one and that too possibly before 2012. And we all even know that the all new 612 Scaglietti is equipped with a V12 engine, and even the car has shed some weight by stripping down its chassis so it is definitely going to sprint much faster than the predecessors.

Even some news is buzzing around us that the new 612 is set to make use the systems of the Formula One that is the gasoline-hybrid technology which is a system that was jointly designed by Ferrari and KERS. With this new technology lurking in it, this supercar will be equipped with an electric motor which has a dual 7 speed clutch and the formula one transmission, while it also has a set of lithium-ion batteries which will surely pull down the emission rates of the CO2 considerably. It has a very similar concept to the 599 GTB Fiorano HY-KERS which was launched lately this year by the company.

2011 Ferrari 599 SA Aperta V12 - Web Exclusive

2010-09-29T11:08:00.000-07:00

Based on the Ferrari 599, it is a special model limited to just 80 cars, and all have already been sold. Ferrari chose to build 80 SA Apertas in celebration of Pininfarina's 80th anniversary.

The SA nomenclature stands for Superamerica but also pays homage to both Sergio and Andrea Pininfarina, whose company and work have been linked to the most successful road-going cars ever built at Maranello.

The SA Aperta is a true roadster, which allows its occupants to enjoy the emotions afforded by the signature front-engined V12 architecture in a completely open-top setting.

The car is fitted with a lightweight soft-top, designed to be used only if the weather gets particularly bad. By doing away with a bulky convertible roof, the designers have saved weight.

A low-slung windshield and the cars low stance lends the SA Aperta an aerodynamic sleekness. Its profile arches back from the A-post to two fins integrated into the two roll-bars, which themselves mimic the outline of the seats.

The chassis has been redesigned to deliver a standard of stiffness comparable to that of a closed coupe, and there is a negligible weight difference, thanks to work done on the structure.

Thanks to the 670hp 6.7-liter V12 engine beneath its hood, the SA Aperta embodies the spirit of the Ferrari 599, incorporating Ferrari's most advanced technology to deliver benchmark performance and superb driving pleasure.

V-12 SA Aperta to be "most exclusive Ferrari ever"

2010-09-25T02:29:00.000-07:00

The star Ferrari at the Paris Auto Show next month will be the gorgeous SA Aperta, which Ferrari bills as the "most exclusive Ferrari ever."

Just eighty will be built. The special-edition V-12 roadsters -- based on the 599 GTO coupe -- honor the 80th anniversary of Carrozzeria Pininfarina, the famous Italian auto design and coachbuilding house that's long worked with Ferrari. The SA in the name pays homage to now honorary company chairman Sergio Pininfarina, 84, and his son Andrea, who ran the company before his death in 2008.

Aperta is Italian for "open" and that's how this front-engine, rear-drive roadster is intended to be driven. It has a simple soft top Ferrari says is "designed to be resorted to only if the weather gets particularly bad." Anything more complicated would have added weight, and Ferrari proudly claims the chassis was given the necessary stiffening to be topless, but brought in at the same weight as the coupe.

The powertrain it shares with the 599 is a 670-horsepower, 6.7-liter V-12 mated to a six-speed automated manual -- good for 0-60 in under 3.5 seconds in the coupe. The open SA Aperta sits slightly lower and features aerodynamic fins that sweep back from the roll bars. Ferrari says there are enough color, material and trim choices that no two cars will be alike.

But don't get your heart set on one. Ferrari gave a private showing at this summer's Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance and apparently all 80 of the roughly $450,000 cars are taken.

Ferrari To Roll Out Special Edition Sports Car In Paris

2010-09-24T10:05:00.001-07:00

Italian sports car maker Ferrari says it will show a new special-edition model called the SA Aperta at this month’s Paris Motor Show. The car is a convertible version of the current 599 Fiorano,a 12-cylinder coupe, or berlinetta, that has been on the market for a few years.

The SA Aperta is meant to mark the 80th anniversary of the Pininfarina design firm that has been responsible for many of Ferrari’s most successful models. Ferrari says the “SA” stands for the designers Sergio and Andrea Pininfarina.

The company says it limited production run to 80 cars, all of which are already sold. Typically when a new Ferrari comes along, particularly a special edition model, the company gives its longtime customers the first shot at buying them. For those willing to wait, the cars usually wind up selling at a discount within a few years.

To really save a few bucks you could settle for a 550 Barchetta, the open-top special edition car Ferrari rolled out a decade ago to mark — you guessed it — Pininfarina’s 70th anniversary. They originally sold out quickly at the list price of about $258,000 and shortly thereafter began changing hands at nearly $500,000. Today you can get one for less than $200,000. Of course they are not as rare as the SA Aperta, as Ferrari built 448 Barchettas. So the new car probably will suffer less from depreciation.

The company says the SA Aperta is a true roadster, meaning it is meant for open-top driving and has a cloth roof essentially designed for use only in emergencies like a sudden downpour. Its chassis was designed to make it about as strong and stiff as a car with a roof without adding too much weight. Converting an existing coupe to a convertible almost always adds weight because of the need to add reinforcing structures to make up for the loss of the roof.

Novitec Rosso bids farewell to the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti with upgrades

2010-06-01T02:59:00.000-07:00

Ferrari fanatics should be familiar with the work of Novitec Rosso. The Dutch tuning house regularly churns out beefed-up versions of Maranello's finest. But while recent releases have upgraded the California, 599 GTB Fiorano and 430 Scuderia, Novitec has now turned its attention to Ferrari's flagship grand tourer.

The custom 612 Scaglietti has been treated to an ECU upgrade and a host of cosmetic and rolling stock upgrades. The lightly massaged 5.7-liter V12 – good for 530 horsepower and 434 lb-ft in stock trim – has been boosted to nearly 560 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, dropping the big coupe's 0-60 mph sprint below the four-second mark and its top end to north of 200 mph.

Coupled with interior enhancements, darkened indicator lights and 20-inch front and 21-inch rear modular wheels, Novitec has imbued the big Scag with a modest, but much needed attitude adjustment until its replacement arrives.

Source: autoblog.com

Acer Liquid E Ferrari special edition

2010-06-01T02:55:00.000-07:00

If you're a big fan of the prancing horse but can't afford to have a real Ferrari sitting in your drive, then Acer may just have the answer. The Acer Liquid E Ferrari edition smartphone is not quite as impressive but just as flashy.

As announced at Mobile World Congress this year, the limited edition handset will run Android 2.1, with special Ferrari wallpaper to brighten up those numerous home screens (see below for proof). Purportedly the most exclusive smartphone in the world, the Ferrari special edition of Acer's high-end Liquid E smartphone will also feature a bright Ferrari-red case with chrome trim, pre-loaded Ferrari car images and videos and a special set of ringtones allowing you to personalise your phone with "the inimitable sweet music of the Ferrrari engine" - more commonly known to the automotive philistines among us as noise.

As if all that wasn't enough to prove your love for and devotion to the Ferrari brand, you can also accessorise the handset with a Ferrari-branded Bluetooth headset - you little style icon, you. I understand that Ferrari jackets and caps and keyrings and folders and laptops are also available. Go wild.

The Liquid E Ferrari edition handset should be available in mid-July; there's no word on prices yet but we'd expect them to be pretty high.

Source: recombu.com

The Ferrari World Theme Park Abu Dhabi: Ostentatious yet Marvelous

2010-05-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Amusement parks. The essence of every summer vacation, the joie de vivre of childhood. All the memories of roller coasters and ensuing vomit bringing back a smile on your face? You think your life is as livid as it gets? Well, help is just a couple of hundred miles away. Presenting, the ultimate (claimed) amusement park christened, The Ferrari World.

If you thought that Ferrari had all its money secretly taped to a flush in a loo, you are quite off the mark. By the looks of it, selling some of the best road cars ever is good enough to make the world’s largest amusement park.

Sprawled across the Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, the Ferrari World has already played host to a number of attractions before its formal launch on the 28th of October, 2010 such as the 2009 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on the Yas Marina circuit, concerts by Jamiroquai, Beyonce, Kings of Leon and Aerosmith and the famous UFC 112 bout.

Although the views of the park from the top looks like an amoeba, it sure is imposing. I will not be surprised if this can be seen from space and is used to contact E.T. life. The massive prancing horse logo that adorns the amoeba (the covered bit of the park), is the largest Ferrari logo ever created at 65 m x 48.5 m in dimensions.

Thrill attractions at the park will include a giant drop tower, the GT Coaster – a dual launched coaster and Formula Rossa – a hydraulically-launched roller coaster manufactured by the Swiss coaster design firm Intamin AG. It will be the world’s fastest roller coaster reaching a top speed of 240 KPH! The attractions were dreamed up by Cincinnati based visitor experience design firm – Jack Rouse Associates.

The project is owned by Aldar Properties PJSC, Abu Dhabi’s leading property development, management and investment company. Architects for this architectural marvel are multinationals Benoy Architects. The rides will be the responsibility of Farah Leisure Parks Management L.L.C, a joint venture between Aldar Properties PJSC and ProFun Management Group Inc. (international leisure facilities management and operating company).

Enough of who’s who of the theme park lets get down to business. Inspiration for the giant blob design? Apparently, Ferrari World iconic sleek red roof is directly inspired by the classic double curve side profile of the Ferrari GT body.

The whole theme park will span 200,000 square metres. The indoor enclosed space (area accessible to the general public) will be 86,000 square metres. This area will have arcades, car exhibits, food joints, amphitheatres and the whole shebang.

Another vulgar display of money and avarice, we think. But it will surely attract a large section of enthusiasts and owners alike. Let us know what you think.

Source: indiancarsbikes.in

Ferrari 599XX Is The Fastest On The Nurburgring Circuit

2010-04-27T05:59:00.000-07:00

599XX Ferrari managed to become the fastest derived vehicle from a series model on the Nurburgring circuit. The Italian model has crossed the 12.4 miles in 6 minutes and 55 seconds.

Ferrari manages to add further distinction to his great showcase of trophies. This time it is a recognition performance obtained on the famous Nurburgring circuit, where the supercar managed to establish a new world record.

The exclusive Ferrari 599XX, presented last year at Frankfurt, managed to travel the approximately 12.4 miles of the circuit in just 6 minutes, 58 seconds and 16 hundredths, making it the fastest derived car from a production model, traveling the “Green Hell.”

The 722 HP supercar, and almost $1.9 million has been conducted successfully by the one of the most experienced Ferrari test driver, Raffaele de Simone. To achieve this performance, the 599XX received a new traction control system and Actiflow System technology, which increases the aerodynamic down-force at high speeds.

However, the 599XX failed to rank in front of the Radical SR8, which drew 6 minutes and 48 seconds in 2009, but is built on the chassis of a racing model. For Ferrari is a big performance and they can be proud for their model.

Source: mibz.com

China in the Driver’s Seat

2010-04-27T05:56:00.000-07:00

“The Chinese don’t understand us,” Amedeo Felisa, Ferrari’s global chief executive, told me in a recent interview. “They don’t understand why we make only two-door cars. They don’t understand why we don’t make a limousine.”

If Ferrari does someday make a stretch limo, it will be because the Asian market demanded it. China, or what is being increasingly referred to as the “C-Factor” in the auto industry, is likely have a significant say from now on in how automobiles are designed, built and sold.

The fact that luxury coupe makers like Porsche, Aston Martin and even Bugatti have designed their first four-door models is directly attributable to the Chinese market. So that begs the question: Can a four-door Ferrari be far behind?

“We aren’t there yet,” Mr. Felisa told me. “But we reserved a very special car to introduce in Beijing, in the 599 GTO, to show how important China is to us.”

The 200-m.p.h. 599 GTO is the fastest Ferrari ever offered and only 599 will be built. Although a price hasn’t been announced publicly, the entire production run has already been spoken for, Mr. Felisa added; at least 20 were purchased by Chinese buyers.

Exhibit A in making a case that China could dominate the car industry was this year’s Beijing auto show. More than 1,000 cars were on display; some 65 concept cars made debuts as well as nearly 100 new or prospective alternative-fuel vehicles. That total was more than were unveiled at the most recent Detroit, New York, Chicago and Los Angeles auto shows combined. By the time Auto China reconvenes a year from now in Shanghai, the show could outstrip Geneva as the world’s most important auto salon.

“China is rapidly becoming the world’s most important automobile market,” Mr. Felisa said.

Last year, China surpassed the United States as the world’s biggest automobile market, ending more than a century of American dominance. The swap in places was sudden and dramatic: China’s sales grew by more than a third to 13.6 million units in 2009, while the United States market plunged 21 percent to 10.5 million. Sales in the United States are expected to rebound to about 12 million units in 2010, after a disastrous two-year recession that helped to bankrupt the Detroit auto giants General Motors and Chrysler. But the Chinese market is not idling, waiting for the Americans to catch back up; sales to the increasingly car-crazy Chinese are forecast to continuing growing – perhaps to as many as 20 million units yearly by 2015.

As recently as 10 years ago, total annual sales in the Chinese market was barely two million vehicles. In fact, this is only the 11th Beijing auto show, or Auto China, as it is officially known. The exhibition alternates host cities every other year with Shanghai; up until two years ago, the two China shows were more like automotive trade shows or flea markets.

Home-grown Chinese autos are expected to proliferate and grow rapidly in sophistication; many Chinese automakers have announced ambitious plans to take leadership in hybrid and electric vehicle production.

An indication of how China’s car manufacturers expect to quickly attain expertise in areas like greentech, and even safety, is underscored by Geely’s recent acquisition of Volvo and all its considerable intellectual capital from Ford. Ford, meanwhile, announced it was studying expansion of its partnership with the Chinese automaker Changan; G.M. already has in place a large-scale joint venture with China’s S.A.I.C.

But automakers outside of China have also taken note of the potential to sell their own cars in Asia. Many, particularly German automakers, like Volkswagen, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Porsche, presented vehicles at the Beijing show that were specifically designed with Chinese tastes in mind. Notable among these were BMW’s Gran Coupe design study and a stretched-wheelbase 5-Series sedan. VW unveiled several new models here, including four electric vehicles and its newest full-sized luxury sedan, the Phaeton.

Ford introduced its Start concept vehicle, which was powered by a unique EcoBoost 3-cylinder engine. G.M. showcased 37 production and concept vehicles, including the Sail hatchback and a Chevy Volt variant called the MPV5 electric crossover.

Volkswagen announced in Beijing that it would open two new manufacturing plants in the country and design several models specific to the Chinese market in the immediate future. VW also announced plans to invest a further $2.2 billion in the Chinese market.

Source: wheels.blogs.nytimes.com

Ferrari Reveals 599 GTO, Its Fastest Road Car Ever

2010-04-12T04:16:00.000-07:00

The new Ferrari 599 GTO may not have the supercar looks of a McLaren MP4-12C or a Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, but it should be right up there with those two in terms of speed and quickness.

Ferrari revealed the 599 GTO on Thursday in pictures, videos and specs over the Internet. Only a very limited number will be built. It is a homologation model for the Ferrari 599XX racecar, which has been sold to a few customers for GT competition.

“On the 599XX we have managed to make a vehicle that nobody else has ever made,” said Amadeo Felisa, the chief executive of Ferrari, in a video on the Ferrari Web site. “With structure and an architecture with the front engine, we have obtained a vehicle that nobody else will be able to equal in performance.”

In February, the 599XX was tested in Valencia, Spain, by Felipe Massa, Ferrari’s Formula One driver. It is a race-modified 599 GTB Fiorano that puts out 700 horsepower. The GTO 599 road car is only slightly less capable. It is powered by a 6-liter V-12 that makes 670 horsepower at 8,250 r.p.m. and 457 pound-feet of torque at 6,500 r.p.m. (And it sounds like this.) Ferrari says the 599 GTO will accelerate from zero to 62 miles an hour in 3.32 seconds. It will have a top speed of 208 miles per hour. Ferrari says it is the fastest road car that it has ever built, which implies that the 599 GTO is faster than even the Enzo.

“One of the most significant innovations on the 599 GTO,” Ferrari said in its news release, “is the close correlation between the chassis set-up, which is close to the handling limit, and the input from the electronic controls, which are developed to increase overall levels of performance.”

The GTO badge has only been used two other times in Ferrari history. The 250 GTO of the 1960s was built off the short-wheelbase 250 GT and used for GT racing. In the mid-1980s, Ferrari created the 288 GTO (based on the 308 GTB) for Group B racing. Both cars were produced in limited numbers, just enough, in fact, to make them eligible for racing; GTO stands for gran turismo omologata, or homologation.

Ferrari is planning a small preview for clients next week at the Military Academy in Modena, Italy. The 599 GTO’s official debut will take place at the Beijing auto show at the end of the month.

Source: wheels.blogs.nytimes.com

Ferrari to keep same approach in Malaysia

2010-03-31T06:22:00.000-07:00

After taking a strong haul of points away from last weekend's Australian grand prix with a third and fourth place finish, Ferrari have vowed to retain the same approach in Malaysia.

After Fernando Alonso led a one-two victory for the Maranello-based outfit at the opening grand prix of the season in Bahrain, it was Felipe Massa who had the edge in Melbourne, brining his F10 home in third place, just ahead of his Spanish team-mate.

Two strong results means double-world champion Alonso leads the drivers' standings, with Massa trailing him by four points, and Ferrari leads the constructors'.

"We are happy with the Melbourne result, even if, on Sunday morning, we might have expected a slightly better one," said Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali.

"Considering what happened in the race, we can be pleased with finishing third and fourth, partly because our closest rivals either failed to score, or at least did not pick up many points.

"We have to be very happy with our situation, because we are still first in the constructors' championship and still first and second in the drivers' one too.

"And considering what happened at the start of the race, with Fernando [Alonso] having a difficult start and falling down to the last position, he managed to keep both Mark Webber and Lewis Hamilton behind him at the end.

"Felipe [Massa] had a difficult weekend as we couldn't find the right setup on his car, so we should be really happy that he has been on the podium twice in succession."

With back-to-back races, formula one teams have arrived at the Sepang circuit in Malaysia for the third round of the 2010 world championship season.

Domenicali said Ferrari will keep the same approach for the time being, with their focus on reliability and on improving the F10's performance with small upgrades.

"We have to keep the same approach going to Malaysia as there is a lot of strong competition around," said Domenicali.

"We will continue to work hard and to keep our focus on reliability and on new parts in order to keep improving the performance."

Source: inthenews.co.uk

Ferrari power on with new fuelling 2010

2010-03-16T09:14:00.000-07:00

Ferrari launched the new F10 and with the new fuel rules of the FIA and the tightly controlled and highly regulated component of life in the Formula One paddock. Although regularly considered in its role in pit stop strategy, this year Shell faces perhaps the biggest challenge in its Formula One fuel formulation in 15 years.

The Fédération Internationale de l’ Automobile’s (FIA) change in fuel regulations for the 2010 season has been two-fold. Refuelling during the race will no longer be allowed, so Shell V-Power race fuel will power Ferrari around the entire length of all 19 Grand Prix races with no refuelling during pit-stops. In addition, the FIA has widened the specifications for fuel formulation development, giving Shell two exciting opportunities for the season ahead.

With the rule changes come challenges to balance the need for constant high performance from Shell V-Power race fuel with tackling increased fuel temperatures and the vital need for each driver to conserve enough fuel to simply finish the race. Shell has worked alongside Scuderia Ferrari to develop the best possible Shell V-Power formulation in preparation for the new regulations and will continue development throughout the season to maintain optimum performance.

Mike Evans, Shell Formula One Fuels Development Project Leader explains, “For 2010, we've got the new fuel regulations; the formulation space for the fuel has been enlarged and we've got the change in refuelling rules. We really need to get the performance out of the car to make sure Scuderia Ferrari make the end of the race, and to make sure there's no problem with the fuel temperature since we can no longer have the benefit of adding slightly cooler fuel during a pit-stop. We've got some exciting challenges ahead for the sport, and we've been working hard for that.”

Evans continues, “Engines, performance-wise, are tuned to run a rich, heavy type of fuel but you can then run them on a slightly leaner formulation, which will give you a small drop in performance but it will also give you better fuel efficiency. It's getting that balance right. We can alter the mix of components in the fuel to enable the engines to run leaner but still give optimum performance, and that's an area we've been working hard on for the last nine months leading up to the 2010 season, given the latest FIA rule changes.”

Source: Ferrari

Racing Green: Ferrari Prances To Different Tune

2010-03-03T03:26:00.000-08:00

Ferrari, the Italian manufacturer whose prancing horse logo usually adorns a flame-red veneer, has shifted to a more environmental gear.

The high-performance sportscar manufacturer unveiled its new hybrid at the Geneva Motor Show.

Painted bright green, the Hy-Kers prototype could hardly have signalled a bolder change of direction for the company.

The technology, based on the same regenerative brake system used in its Formula One cars, is set to reduce emissions by 35%.

Ferrari hopes to move from the experimental stage to having hybrid options available for all its models within three to four years.

In unveiling the Hy-Kers, Ferrari formally indicated it is lining up with the electrification of the motor industry - a broader trend signposted by any number of brands on display in Geneva.

The change is more pronounced - and the need more pressing - for high-end carmakers like Ferrari.

They find themselves having to fit a more sober mood in the wake of the economic crisis, as pressure over carbon emissions translates into taxation and inner-city driving restrictions in some countries.

German luxury marque Porsche showcased a 911 GT3 with a hybrid petrol-electric engine, a day after merger partner VW vowed to lead the market in electric cars by 2018.

Carlos de Silva, an analyst at IHS Global Insight, said the Geneva show would be "marked by the colour green and the ecologically responsible".

"Even on the stands of Porsche or Ferrari, they must demonstrate that they are coherent with the times," he added.

Source: news.sky.com

South Korean police brings in Ferrari, Porsche and Lamborghini patrol cars

2010-02-28T05:36:00.001-08:00

The next time you find yourself driving a car in South Korea, you might want to think twice about breaking any speed limits unless you want these guys on your tail.

Needless to say, the South Korean patrol cars are not your everyday Kia Rios or Hyundai Getzs. By our tally, that’s a Ferrari 360, a Porsche 911, and a Lamborghini Gallardo all serving as patrol cars for South Korea’s police department.

If you’re picturing a car chase, you’re probably thinking that the scenario would be the other way around. Supercar gets jacked and standard patrol cars give chase. Well, in Korea, the shoe is in the proverbial other foot and trying to engage these cars in a good old police chase is as dumb an idea as drinking milk on Fat Tuesday.

Source: topspeed.com

Ferrari keeps getting quicker - Massa

2010-02-28T05:31:00.000-08:00

Felipe Massa is confident the Ferrari F10 is getting stronger and stronger ahead of the first grand prix in Bahrain.

The car is widely regarded as the frontrunner after four weeks of pre-season testing and Massa said he had noticed continual improvements in its handling throughout February.

"I have a very positive impression," he said after Saturday's test. "You can feel more grip and more downforce. It's encouraging, because it means that we made another step ahead compared to Jerez."

In spite of the wet weather on the third day, Massa completed an entire race simulation and said he had learned a lot about the new car.

"We managed to drive many miles, which is always positive," he said. "We finished another race simulation without any problems, which helped us to better understand the tyre behaviour with different fuel loads and under different track conditions. I'm satisfied with today. We're working in the right direction for the start of the championship."

Massa will stay in the car for the final day of testing on Sunday, when he is hoping to collect enough information to be able to make one last development push ahead of Bahrain.

"Let's hope the weather improves," he said. "It would be important to finish the tests on a dry track to collect some more important data regarding the car under various conditions, also with less fuel on board."

Source: en.espnf1.com

2010 NOVITEC ROSSO Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano RACE 848 breaks cover

2010-02-28T05:27:00.000-08:00

NOVITEC ROSSO RACE 848 – this name stands for an absolutely unique high-performance sports car.

Only three of these automotive masterpieces will be built. The two-seater car is based on the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano and celebrates its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2010.

Underneath the striking aluminum skin that sports the unusual color combination of matte white and grey beats an extremely powerful heart: The NOVITEC ROSSO RACE 848 twelve-cylinder twin compressor engine produces 848 hp / 624 kW of power and has a peak torque of 842 Nm. Powered by this engine the car sprints from rest to 100 km/h in less than 3.4 seconds, to 300 km/h in just 23.7 seconds, and reaches a top speed in excess of 345 km/h. This exclusive special model also features an aerodynamic-enhancement kit developed in the wind tunnel, three-piece 21-inch wheels with matching sports suspension, a high-performance brake system and exclusive interior options.

Source: autospies.com

Alonso: Ferrari F1 the best car I've ever had

2010-02-22T11:40:00.000-08:00

Double F1 World Champion Fernando Alonso has warned Ferrari's rivals that whilst they might have been demonstrating their raw pace during testing, the Scuderia has conversely been keeping its powder dry - as he ominously rated the F10 the best car he has ever driven

In an early warning shot to his F1 2010 rivals, Fernando Alonso has labelled the Ferrari F10 'the best car I've ever had' – as he contended that whilst rival teams have been quick to demonstrate their potential during testing, the Prancing Horse has been keeping its powder dry and will only reveal its true form once the real action gets underway in Bahrain.

In the hands of both Alonso and team-mate Felipe Massa, Ferrari's new baby has proven to be fast and consistent throughout pre-season testing to-date, be it at Valencia – where the Spaniard led an ominous and commanding Maranello one-two on the final combined timesheets – or Jerez de la Frontera.

Other drivers have confessed that they believe the scarlet machine is the one to beat at this stage of proceedings [see separate story – click here] – and despite winding up 1.5 seconds shy of the ultimate marker set by reigning F1 World Champion Jenson Button for McLaren-Mercedes last week, the Oviedo native confirmed that his adversaries have good reason to be worried.

“It is already the best car I've ever had,” the 21-time grand prix-winner told Spanish sports newspaper AS, as he eyes a third drivers' crown in the top flight to add to his back-to-back title glories with Renault in 2005 and 2006. “There is no reason to be pessimistic.

“Red Bull, McLaren and Renault have gone quick and shown their cards; we are still hiding ours. If I was with another team I would be looking at Ferrari, because everything so far is working very well.”

Whilst insistent that he is underestimating nobody, Alonso did add that one reason Ferrari's competitors have been so rapid over the past week could be down to lapping on low fuel to simulate qualifying runs – and as the Scuderia bids to recover in 2010 from its worst campaign at the highest level since 1993, it is clear that the 28-year-old's hopes are high of springing a surprise when the starting lights go out in Sakhir in just under three weeks' time.

“This is where Red Bull and McLaren are showing very fast,” he opined of the low-fuel outings, “and it is certainly the basis for trying to improve the performance of the F10 at the next test in Barcelona.”

Source: crash.net

Ferrari sales dropped 5 percent in 2009

2010-02-18T14:07:00.000-08:00

In 2009, Ferrari sold 6,250 cars worldwide, a 5% drop compared to the previous year. This is by no means a remarkable feat but it is a far cry from the 35% sales plunge felt in the luxury sports car market.

Ferrari sold 1,467 cars in North America, its largest market, 200 fewer cars than in 2008. In Europe, Ferrari delivered 2,752 units, a 6% drop compared to the previous year. In particular, Ferrari’s main markets in Europe are Italy (655 units sold) and Germany (644 units sold). Ferrari’s new markets have displayed increasing sales. For instance, sales in the Middle East were up 29% to 471 cars. Continued after the jump!

Meanwhile, in the Asia Pacific Region, 2,752 Ferrari cars were sold, a 3% increase. Japan is still one of Ferrari’s top 5 markets worldwide, with 8% of worldwide deliveries. In China, 206 cars were sold. About 60% of the total vehicles sold were California models.

Incidentally, the new 458 Italia did not contribute to 2009 sales, as this model had entered the market after the results were obtained. Last year, Ferrari’s market share increased and posted an average worldwide increase of 10%, thus making the company the segment leader.

At the end of last year, consolidated revenues dropped by 7%, reaching 1,778 million euro with its operating profit falling 28% to 245 million euro. Ferrari said that these figures were seriously affected by the weakness of the US dollar because 30% of its sales were made in this currency.

Source: 4wheelsnews.com

Ferrari and Lamborghini Crash in South Africa

2010-02-17T03:12:00.000-08:00

Two shiny new exotic cars – a Lamborghini Murcielago and Ferrari F430 – wrecked into each other in South Africa, and that’s not even interesting part. The two drivers involved were attending a wedding reception for the family of the ruling political party in the town of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, when the cars collided. The Lamborghini was apparently driven by a former hitman convicted of six murders, but was granted political amnesty and let off.

Source: automoblog.net

Fisichella drives new Ferrari at Jerez

2010-02-17T03:10:00.001-08:00

Two rainy days of exclusive team "filming" at Jerez was actually Giancarlo Fisichella's first chance to drive the new Ferrari F10 single seater.

It had been reported that the Italian team's use of Jerez on Monday and Tuesday featured Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa at the wheel of the red car.

But it was actually team reserve driver Fisichella, 37, who was in charge of the F10, proving that Ferrari is the F1 team arguably most adept at driving through the loopholes in the sport's tight testing restrictions.

Fisichella's running, although done in torrential rain, gave the Roman a chance to get comfortable in the F10, whilst freeing up the four days of official testing this week for Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa.

After the same F10 prototype did all the seven days of testing at Valencia and Jerez this month, a second model - chassis 282 - will make its debut in Massa's hands on Wednesday.

Source: motorsport.com

Ferraris in 2009

2010-02-14T07:52:00.000-08:00

Turn your speakers ON! You will see all sorts of amazing and exclusive models from the italian manufacturer: from the legendary Enzo and F50 to the rather common yet very loud F430 and 599 GTB Fiorano... and many more, in all colors!

Official: Ferrari confirms the 599 GTO

2010-02-13T02:04:00.000-08:00

After intense speculation, Ferrari has finally given confirmation that the 599 GTO will be released.
Basically, the 599 GTO is a road variant of the racecar Ferrari 599 XX.

Interestingly, this is the first time that Ferrari has used the GTO nameplate since the 288 GTO, which was built from 1984-1986. Ferrari CEO Amedeo Felisa, who confirmed this news through Evo Magazine, said that the classification of the 599 GTB Fiorano has been changed from “GT” to its “Sports Car” designation, allowing for the development of this extreme GTO version.

Source: autospies.com

A Ferrari V6 In The Works

2010-02-13T02:02:00.000-08:00

During a recent interview, Amedo Felisa, boss of the Italian supercar brand, divulged Ferrari's plan to build a V6-engined car in the future. He further added that if he would have been asked the question a year ago he would have said no.
"Attitudes are changing and we build cars for customers" - Amedo Felisa.

Taking into consideration the global warming issue, full electric cars are not the best choice for the customers. Furthermore, he also emphasized that sound is just as important as design and performance for Ferrari. "We'll not make engine sounds with speakers", he stated.

Felisa also confirmed that Ferrari's current plans included the making of the 458 Italia Spider as well as a successor to the Enzo supercar.

Source: ozcarguide.com

EA releases new Ferrari Racing Pack for Need For Speed SHIFT on Xbox 360

2010-02-11T01:49:00.000-08:00

Just a couple of weeks ago, we had the chance to review the latest driving game from the venerable Need For Speed franchise, and found NFS Shift to be a worthy rival to the likes of Forza 3 and the upcoming Gran Turismo 5. The one thing it was missing? Ferraris. But a new downloadable content pack on Xbox Live aims to fix that shortcoming.

Available for download on February 16, the Ferrari Racing Pack features 10 absolutely drool-worthy Prancing Horses. Included in the package are the FXX, F50 GT, 599 GTB Fiorano, California, 575 Superamerica and five variants of the F430: Spider, Scuderia, 16M Scuderia Spider, Challenge and GTC.

The gamesmiths at Electronic Art have also devised an array of challenges designed specifically for these ten Maranello monsters, including hot laps, eliminators, endurance races and a world tour. The 46 challenges are included as well in the download pack, which costs $10 or 800 Microsoft Points. You're also going to need a copy of the game, an Xbox 360 console and an Xbox Live account to make it happen. Full details are available in the press release after the jump, with a batch of screen shots in the gallery below.

Source: autoblog.com

Spy shots taken of the Ferrari 599 GTO; new supercar expected to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show

2010-02-09T13:21:00.000-08:00

Any doubts or skepticism on the validity of the Ferrari 599 GTO – the road version of the Ferrari 599XX – can now be put to rest after spy photos of what appears to be the 599 GTO was recently taken in Europe. It certainly helped that Ferrari didn’t put a whole of effort in disguising this car because it looks eerily similar – especially the roof elements and those easy-to-notice rear exhaust design - to the 599XXs that Felipe Massa and six of his cohorts were seen driving a week ago.

Official details behind the car are still being kept under wraps by Ferrari but those who are in-the-know have said that the car’s 6.0-liter V12 engine will be derived from the Ferrari Enzo, which, if accurate, should give the 599 GTO a top speed of somewhere in the neighbourhood of 220 mph and a 0-60mph time of around 3.2 seconds.

The Ferrari 599 GT0 is expected to make an appearance at the Geneva Motor Show in March and is rumoured to be headed out to dealerships in the succeeding months on a limited run of just 500 total units with a price tag that is expected to fall just a nail under half-a-million dollars ($464,950).

Source: topspeed.com

Ferrari 599 hybrid - more details

2010-02-08T04:47:00.000-08:00

More details on the Ferrari 599 hybrid concept that is set to be shown at the Geneva motor show have been revealed by company boss Amedeo Felisa.

Felisa revealed to that a 599 hybrid test mule has been running for a year now, and that its fuel consumption is around 25 per cent less than the standard car's.

However, the hybrid technology adds around 80kg to the standard car (pictured here), and it is unlikely to be seen on a production Ferrari for five years.

“The technology is not ready," he said. "The suppliers are not ready. Everything is underdeveloped. There is a lot of work to so. It is not for tomorrow. We haven’t decided when [it will be introduced]. It will be around 2015, but not before five years.”

He added that the members of last year's F1 team who had developed KERS have now been reassigned to developing greener road car technology.

Felisa also reiterated that the 599 was being used to present the hybrid technology, and would not necessarily be the first car in Ferrari's range to get hybrid technology. He said the systems under development would fit to all Ferrari cars, whether front or mid-engined, or V8 or V12 powered.

Source: autocar.co.uk

Ferrari reveals Jerez testing plans

2010-02-08T04:21:00.000-08:00

Fernando Alonso will kick off Ferrari's testing on his home ground at Jerez in Spain this week, driving for the first two days before handing the car over to Felipe Massa.

The Spaniard was fastest of all in last week's first pre-season test at Valencia, with the early indications suggesting that Ferrari has an early edge in its preparations for the 2010 season.

The F10 will feature a few mechanical updates for this week's run, with the team not intending to bring any aerodynamic improvements until the next Jerez test - when the team is expected to use its second chassis for the first time.

The Jerez test is set to feature 10 teams – with Force India, Virgin Racing and Red Bull Racing joining the seven current outfits who tested at Valencia.

Source: autosport.com

Ferrari Announced Certified Pre-Owned Program

2010-02-07T01:35:00.000-08:00

For a brand that once considered the sales of roadgoing vehicles a means to support a racing empire, Ferrari’s recent decisions to move the brand into lower and lower price brackets has come as something of a shock to the system. With the V8 cars ushering in a new era that’s finally culminated in the polarizing entry level Ferrari California, the brand is breaking new, cheaper ground than ever before.

But if the California is still too expensive for you, Ferrari’s latest announcement should be exciting. Now offering a factory-supported certified pre-owned program replete with two year warranty, owning a cheap Ferrari is now easier than ever. Valid for approved models of 360, F430, 550/575, 599 and 612, the program includes any car manufactured in the last eight years with less than 90,000 kilometers on the clock.

Source: carguideweb.com

Massa drives the new exclusive Ferrari 599XX

2010-02-06T04:47:00.000-08:00

In this new video from Ferrari, you have Massa driving the new exclusive Ferrari 599XX at the Ricardo Tormo circuit outside of Valencia

According to Ferrari, the Ferrari 599XX is "incorporates the most advanced technologies resulting from Ferrari's road-going and F1 research."

It only makes sense to have Mr Massa from the world of F1 take the car for a spin on the track.

Ferrari's 599XX will demand a cost over 1 million euros and featured 700 Ferrari race bred horses.

The 599XX debuted at the 79th Geneva International Motor Show

Source: Ferrari

RM Auctions offers 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO for private treaty sale

2010-02-03T02:51:00.000-08:00

RM Auctions, the global leader in the collector car market with a specialization in the sale of Ferraris, is representing the 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO (chassis no. 4675 GT) – one of the most coveted cars in the world, for private treaty sale.

In addition to its impressive motor car auction results at prestigious locations around the globe, including the sale of seven of the top 10 Ferraris ever sold at auction, RM generates an average of $50 million in private treaty transactions year over year.

“The Ferrari GTO is unquestionably one of the most iconic and coveted cars in the world,” says Max Girardo, Managing Director of RM Europe. “This is truly a rare occasion for collectors to acquire such an important piece of automotive history and we are pleased to be chosen by 4675 GT’s current custodian to represent it on the open market.”

The 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO (chassis no. 4675 GT) is one of only 36 250 GTOs originally produced and one of a limited few with Series II GTO bodywork. In addition to being considered one of the most beautiful cars ever built by Ferrari, the GTO was tremendously successful in competition, securing multiple World Championships for the Modenese car builder.

In April 1963, 4675 GT left the factory finished in Rosso Cina. It was raced by such drivers as Guido Fossati, Jean Guichet, Oddone Sigala, Vincenzo Nember and Luigi Taramazzo and proved itself a tremendously capable racing car, rarely finishing outside the top three in its class and achieving numerous race wins. It participated in the full range of competitive events, including hillclimbs, endurance races and rallies.

The present owner acquired 4675 GT in 1996, and has maintained it in his exceptional, world-renowned Japanese collection ever since. Most recently 4675 GT has participated in the ultra-private events reserved only for GTO owners, namely the 35th and 45th GTO Anniversary Tours in France and California.

For more information about the purchase of this car, please contact Max Girardo at RM Auctions on +44 (0) 20 7851 7077.

Source: classicrallies.com

Alonso takes the wheel of Ferrari for 1st time

2010-02-03T02:47:00.000-08:00

Fernando Alonso took the wheel of a Ferrari for the first time Wednesday on the final day of Formula One's first pre-season testing session.

The two-time world champion, who left Renault at the end of last year to join the Italian team, came out to busy grandstands at the Cheste circuit, which is expecting up to 30,000 spectators for the Spaniard's first session in the iconic red car.

Alonso took over from teammate Felipe Massa in the F10 car, which has been fastest in the seven-team field through the first two days.

Alonso is one of three F1 champions testing on Wednesday, with seven-time champion Michael Schumacher of Mercedes GP and defending winner Jenson Button of McLaren also driving.

Source: usatoday.com

ASI 2009 Ferrari F430 - Race Mixing

2010-02-02T03:49:00.000-08:00

Everything seemed fine. Sublime, actually. Outskirts of Nagoya, in a tweaked F430, pulling back on the paddle for fourth gear, hard on the throttle, revs climbing, engine screaming and traffic politely moving over.

Then, as I was just starting to get a feel for the car, came the lost-in-translation moment. On the GPS came a women's voice, something in Japanese, which I don't speak. Having ignored her earlier announcements, I kept my foot in it. Then, from the passenger seat, Mr. Tanii, manager of ASI said in English, "Speed camera! Slow!"

I stepped hard on the Brembos to wipe off speed, the Performance Friction race pads, which were squeaky and touchy around town, brought us safely below the speed limit before the cameras came into view. No drama; the car was perfectly stable thanks to a firm set of Sachs coilovers and extra aero downforce from the wing and body kit. Unfazed as well, Mr. Tanii gave me directions to the restaurant for lunch.

Japan's probably not the first place-but definitely not the last-you'd think to find a company that tunes Ferraris. Their tuners are more famous for 1000-horsepower Nissan Skylines, Toyota Supras, nimble Mugen Hondas, and brutally effective Mitsubishi EVOs. With so many good cars available for tuning, and the Japanese tendency toward insularity, tuning of European cars seems an anomaly. But horsepower, speed and handling are universal terms and the world is becoming a flat, level playing field.

ASI, an acronym of accuracy, spirit, and imagination, was founded by Satoshi Kondo in 2007, but that wasn't when he personally started modifying exotica. Inspired by a Testarossa-based Koenig Competition Spider, Kondo bought a Testarossa and proceeded to chop the top, re-enforce the chassis, and fortify the engine to create a one-off that still sits in his garage today.

ASI's styling and tuning program for the F430 includes, most noticeably, front are rear bumpers that have been re-sculpted to seem more track-inspired. The side vents on the front bumper fuse elements of the Scuderia and F430 GT2 and the side skirts' intakes extend further than stock to draw in more air. The rear bumper relocates the exhaust pipes to a position similar to the Scuderia's. However, a stock F430 exhaust can still be used and routed to end where the tips normally exit, lower and to the sides. For the weight-conscious, ASI claims to have shaved 60 pounds with this body kit. To top it off, ASI offers three kinds of dry carbon rear wings. The one pictured here is the Type 2 street wing. It has been flawlessly finished and blended into the car's lines instead of dominating or unbalancing them.

Protruding from the rear bumper is a stainless steel exhaust system, which was developed with Ito Racing. Together with a revised ECU, ASI claims an increase of 30 hp, with emphasis on increased mid-range torque. The system adds low-frequency depth while also allowing the engine to shriek only as only a high-strung Ferrari V8 can. While there wasn't a stock F430 for comparison, I can say that ASI's car had plenty of meaty midrange that made it feel bigger than 4.3 liters.

Underneath, ASI replaced the stock suspension with the aforementioned Sachs coilovers and adjusted the settings to their liking. The ride around town is expectedly firm but surprisingly compliant over dips and bumps at highway speed. As this car spends a lot of time on the track, ASI upgraded the brake rotors to 14.5-inch slotted discs and also asked Brembo to supply narrower 6-piston calipers to clear the wheels the company mounts its racing slicks on. And to keep the driver in position, lightweight Bride racing seats were also installed.

Before going to drive and shoot ASI's F430, there were fears that I might have a PF Chang's experience-Chinese food cooked by non-Chinese never tastes right. In this case, an Italian car tuned by Japanese could be disastrous. Luckily, that isn't the case with ASI's work. The quality is world class, the attention to detail obsessive, the finished product lust-worthy.

2009 Ferrari F430
Layout
Longitudinal mid engine, rear-wheel drive

Engine
4.3-liter V8, dohc, 32-valve. Stainless steel exhaust, remapped ECU

Transmission
Six-speed sequential manual

Suspension
Sachs coilovers

Brakes
Six-piston Brembo calipers, 14.5-inch slotted rotors

Wheels & Tires
ASI forged alloys, Michelin Pilot Sport PS2

Exterior
ASI front and rear bumpers, side skirts, rear wing

Performance
Peak Power: 520 hp @ 8300 rpm
Peak Torque: 360 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
0-60 mph: 3.9 sec.
Top Speed: 195 mph (est.)

Source: europeancarweb.com

F1: Fisichella To Race Ferrari In Le Mans Series

2010-02-02T03:48:00.000-08:00

Giancarlo Fisichella has signed up to contest the Le Mans Series in 2010.

The 37-year-old is a veteran of 231 Grands Prix since 1996, but he will be Ferrari's reserve driver this season.

However, the Automobile Club de l'Ouest's Le Mans Series said on Monday that Fisichella would contest "the whole season" of the endurance sports car calendar in 2010.

A full entry list will be published within days, but it emerges that he will drive a Ferrari F430 with AF
Corse in the LMGT2 category.Two Le Mans Series races clash with F1 rounds in 2010: May 9's 1000km of Spa (Spanish GP), and the 1000km of Silverstone (Italian GP) in September.

Source: formula-one.speedtv.com

Ferrari Teammates On F1 2010

2010-01-31T01:53:00.000-08:00

As the 2010 F1 season approaches Ferrari drivers Felipe Massa and Fernando looked at what they expect the new season to bring from the new rules, and from each other.

“All my dreams in my career came true: now the one to become a Ferrari driver,” said Alonso. “I can almost feel the car in Valencia, it’s very exciting. I hope to stay here for many years, because if you
don’t win the Championship one year, you don’t have to consider to change the team.”

“Regarding its comfort it seems to be more or less on the same level as last year’s car,” he added when asked about his first impressions of the new F10. “There’s always something to improve in the cockpit – seat, elbows, pedals, which have a different inclination compared to the standard set up.”

“We started very early thinking about 2010,” Felipe Massa told the assembled crowd, turning to the changes for 2010. “We were asking for many modifications not just regarding aerodynamics, but also the engine and the tank. Everything was really important considering the 2010 rules. What’s very important is that every single detail can bring tenths of a second.”

“We’ll start with less petrol into the weekend, while we will start into the race with enough petrol for the whole distance. Then there are other details, such as the points assigned to the first and second in the races. Having all these changes in mind we have to pay a lot of attention and learn rapidly in terms of strategy and, as far as I am concerned, regarding driving the car to be immediately competitive.”

“We’ll have a more precise idea after the first test,” added Alonso. “With the petrol load we can put into the tank we’ll all have a different load on board. We’ll concentrate on our work during the tests, without considering the lap times; we’ll see if we’ll be satisfied with the car or not.”

Massa also had to answer the inevitable questions about his Hungaroring accident, describing it as “really unbelievable”, before talking about how safety is one of the primary concerns of drivers and tracks and assuring that “nothing has changed” in his outlook on F1.

But there was much more interest in what the pair saw of each other, the Ferrari line-up being one the three (along with McLaren and Mercedes) sure to generate headlines this year.

“The expectations as far as my teammate is concerned I’ve been living for many years now,” Massa explained. “When there’s a new driver at Ferrari there are great expectations and the goal is to work well as a team, to be complete. I’ll have a very strong teammate. I’ve always done good work, learned a lot, shown many times that I’m able to win and fight, whoever my teammate was.”

Alonso on the other hand was quick to emphasise the team work element of the pairing. “Felipe and I both race for Ferrari. It is important that a red car wins. We’ll both give it our all to improve our performance, we’ll both give 100%. I’ve always had strong teammates and I never had any problems with then. I have a great relation to all of them and it won’t be different with Felipe.”

“Every season is exciting and interesting at the start,” he added. “It’s the same this year, although there are the expectations regarding Schumacher’s comeback, which is very good for F1, which might be well received by TV viewers. I think that there will be two teams fighting for the Drivers’ Title and two for the Constructors’ Title. Let’s hope we’ll be there. Winning the title. I’m not making a bet here, right now everything is too open.”

Source: thecheckeredflag.co.uk

Ferrari Unveils The ’F10’ Formula One Car, Confirms Ferrari 599 Hybrid

2010-01-29T07:27:00.000-08:00

Ferrari’s 2010 Formula One racing car was finally uncovered in a lavish ceremony at Maranello, by none other than the Ferrari boss Luca Di Montezemolo. The event could not have been complete without the team principal Stefan Domenicali and the drivers Felipe Massa and Fernando Alonso and the third driver Giancarlo Fisichella who took the stage along with the CEO.

The 620 kg racing monster is powered by a 2.4 liter V8, and has a limited slip E- differential and a 7 speed sequential gearbox. With some aerodynamic upgrades to the car, we may expect more exhilarating performance this season. Resembling last year’s Red Bull RB5 at the front, the F10 just could not heat the racing circuits because of the bad icy weather. But as part of their initial test runs, it will set out to Valencia, Spain for the official testing on Monday. Check out the videos of the event after the jump.

In news from Ferrari, following the release of F10, CEO Luca de Montezemolo has confirmed that a production-ready hybrid version of the Ferrari 599 will be officially unveiled at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show in March.
The two-seat 599, designed by Pininfarina, will keep its V-12 engine and carry Ferrari’s kinetic energy recovery system (KERS). A start/stop system is also likely to appear on the hybrid. Reducing the fuel consumption by nearly 30%, the Ferrari 599 will provide a combined economy ratings of 14 mpg. At the event, Ferrari also stated its plans to continue looking out for ways to improve the efficiency of its cars and will persist adapting the F1 technology for its street vehicles.

Source: nitrobahn.com

A tuned-up Ferrari Enzo: for those who thought the original a bit tame

2010-01-27T14:11:00.000-08:00

THE FERRARI FXX Evolution is the ultimate track car. But the problem is Ferrari keeps them on the circuit, under lock and key. So even paying €1.5 million and joining this most exclusive club doesn’t mean you can take it home to impress your friends.

Unless you take a base Enzo and build your own, which is precisely what Edo Karabegovic has done for partner and Canadian importer Zahir Rana. As Christmas presents go, it’s right up there with the best of them.

The Edo Competition Enzo XX Evolution waits inside his Ahlen firm, the end result of months of work and glorious in the less familiar yellow finish. This is the Enzo taken to the absolute limit and it should soon become the fastest road-going Ferrari in the world when it goes beyond 390km/h with the timing gear attached. Considering the speeds Edo himself has achieved on the Autobahn late at night, it could be even faster than that and don’t be too surprised if this joins the Bugatti Veyron in the 400km/h-plus club before too long.

As Edo fires up the now 6.3-litre V12, the explosion of noise is so utterly, ear-splitting obscene that the police stop by to take a look and somewhere a kid starts to cry. And that’s at idle. When I roll on to the industrial estate’s outer road the car barks with every touch of the throttle and pulsates with racing tech and latent power.

The Enzo is a racing car softened for the road, that’s how Ferrari built it, the Maserati MC12 was built on the same platform and that was a ground-up racer, but the Enzo was carefully considered, the edges were filed down, the spikes capped with cork. Edo, though, has thrown all that moderation in the bin and gone back to raw, race car brutality.

I flatten the throttle for the few seconds it takes for the first straight to disappear, it is an epiphany. There is a jolt, a shimmy from the rear as the tyres find traction on the cold, wet tarmac and then the car bolts forward like the lever in the rifle and just arrives at the braking zone. It demolishes straights with the same verve as the Bugatti Veyron and will rev all the way to a window smashing 9,600rpm.

The new Enzo XX comes with 840bhp and 779Nm of torque to play with, and a new triple plate clutch that Edo designed himself and can take full bore starts all day long.

It breaks 100km/h in 3.2 seconds, 200km/h in nine seconds and 300km/h in 19 seconds, on a dry day and an open road. Even here, in this windswept and wet corner of Germany, the sheer insanity of the acceleration leaves an indelible impression as cars and buildings turn into instant blurs with a squeeze of the right pedal. This car has Veyron pace, although it will be a little trickier on the limit.

He upped the displacement to 6.3-litres, fitted new camshafts, new titanium valve spring retainers and connecting rods, modified cylinder hears while exhaust headers, high flow catalytic converters, mufflers and air filters are all part of the supporting cast. The main trick here are the solid lifters that lets Edo rev the engine to 9,600rpm – like the FXX. A monstrous Capristo rear silencer box sits on the rear and it features butterfly valves that open to give the full bore noise effect. With a touch of a button on a keyfob the noise quietens just enough, although it’s still right on the limit of the law even in mute mode. Without the muffler, incidentally, Edo reckons the car is good for 860bhp and will match the FXX step for step.

He stripped 90kgs from the kerbweight with lightweight components and fitted the same KW horizontal dampers that go on to the FIA GT MC12 Corse. So the car can be as hard and as sharp as the most demanding driver could ever want, but thankfully it comes with Ferrari’s front-end hydraulic lifter system to get over high kerbs. With the nose airborne we roll into the broken, rutted-to-hell carparks of the old colliery with almost no fear of scraping the expensive paint, which means it can handle anything the city streets could throw at it. If you could handle the power and the outrageous fuel consumption it could really be a daily driver.

That new back end is an exact recreation of the FXX’s created from photos and measurements, you can’t just ring up and order one from Ferrari. There are no moulds, it took three months to make and Edo swears he won’t make another. But then the extra downforce of the huge diffuser and small wings transform the car and plant the rear to the deck at outrageous speed.

There’s a custom set of SportMaxx tyres on the car and Dunlop is working hard with Edo on a set of tyres that will support the new top end speed in all conditions. It’s a big commitment, but they kind of like the idea of this road-going FXX and have given their full support for these high-performance tyres.

So on the road it feels scalpel sharp, the steering is synapse direct, the suspension rock steady and the standard Ferrari ceramic brakes are more than enough to hold 2,800lbs of pin-sharp supercar.

All we can do here is marvel at an apex predator on the public road and drink in the experience, but it feels confined by these limits. It’s like a great white shark swimming in a paddling pool.

It would take a track and no small shortage of nerve to find the limit of this machine, even pressing on a public road is barely tickling the surface of its amplified skills. And therein lies the quandary. The Enzo is more than enough car for the public road and this car’s true talents will only shine at a speed that will put you in prison. So nobody needs the €1.5 million Edo Enzo XX Evolution, but the fact that it is as hard, fast and outrageous as a car that Ferrari insisted would only ever see action on the track means people will want it.

They live in a different stratosphere to the rest of us, but there are people who have tired of the impact of their Enzo. Think of it as a long term smoker that is suddenly offered a super cigarette that gives them that rush of the first puff.

It’s just as politically incorrect and yet equally just as addictive. The lucky few that can afford the kind of headrush that goes with the fastest Ferrari in the world will emerge from their first drive sweating, giddy and unable to speak thanks to the sheer brutal speed of this thing.

And, having driven it, it’s an addiction I wish I could afford to share.

Power: 840bhp @ 9,600rpm

Torque: 779Nm @ 5,800rpm

Performance: 0-60mph: 3.2secs

Top speed: 390km/h

Price: €1.5 million (before taxes)

Source: irishtimes.com

Cristiano Ronaldo shows off flashy red ride

2010-01-26T04:36:00.000-08:00

Even though he suffered a red card penalty after elbowing one of his opponents Patrick Jan Mtiliga in the face this weekend, he is not sitting at home crying about it. The Real Madrid footballer met up with a friend for lunch in Madrid this afternoon.

The big money baller was photographed as he departed from his fiery red Ferrari.
The 24-year-old defended himself over the incident with Mtiliga and claims he did not mean to cause him any harm.

“People who understand football know that my intention is always to try and play.

“The red card is a disgrace I don’t understand it.

“I know you saw blood on the TV screens but I was just trying to break free. I never try to hurt anyone.”

He faces a possible ban from playing in the 3 matches.

Source: accidentalsexiness.com

Fernando Alonso Promises Fans The F1 World Title In 2010

2010-01-20T04:21:00.000-08:00

Fernando Alonso hopes to bring a world title for Ferrari F1 in 2010 and says that Mercedes, McLaren and Red Bull will be the main rival of the Scuderia.

Fernando Alonso visited the Scuderia Ferrari headquarters on Monday in order to take the measures for the new F1 car.

“It’s almost ready. I’m here in Maranello today to prepare the seat and other things connected to the debut on the track. I think that the Ferrari will be competitive and I really hope to bring the Drivers’ Title here to Maranello,” he said, in spite of the reserved declarations made only one day ago.

However, the double world champion anticipates a fierce fight for the title this year, considering that four teams can claim to bring the ultimate trophy in their showcase. “The ideal would be if my fiercest competitor was Felipe: that would mean that we’re the best team. Although I think that McLaren, Red Bull and Mercedes will be very competitive and hard to beat,” he added.

In the context in which Kimi Raikkonen, Robert Kubica and Sebastian Vettel showed their intention to compete in the rally, the Italian fans were eager to know if Alonso shares this passion. “For me Formula 1 is the top. I can’t see myself anywhere else. I always wanted to race in F1 since I was a child. Nascar? I like to play it on my Playstation,” Fernando Alonso also said.

Alonso’s next official appearance for Ferrari will be on January 28, when Scuderia will present at Maranello the new F1 car for the 2010 season.

Source: mibz.com

Ferrari 458 prices revealed

2010-01-19T07:29:00.000-08:00

Ferrari has named the price for its latest masterpiece. As we predicted the mid-engined, V8-powered 458 Italia will start from £169,545 before adding any options. However, that does include the £950 'showroom tax' applied to the most polluting cars when they are sold.

Just short of £170,000 might seem like a steep hike in comparison to the F430 it replaces, but that's £6,000 less than the 430 Scuderia - a car the 458 trounces when it comes to outright performance and cutting edge technology.

That really is just a starting price though when you consider the myriad options available to buyers. 'Change-up' LEDs on the steering wheel will set you back £2,794, electric seats are £2,120 and an alcantara boot lining is £1,445 to mention but a few.

Elsewhere in the range, the convertible California starts at £143,325, the 599 GTB Fiorano kicks off at £207,075 and the 2+2 612 Scaglietti will set you back £217,230 before you've ticked any boxes on the options list.

Source: autoexpress.co.uk

Ferrari Names Flavio Manzoni as Design Director

2010-01-16T07:28:00.001-08:00

Since Donato Coco recently jumped ship to Lotus, Ferrari appointed Flavio Manzoni as its new design director.

Manzoni was previously the head of creative design at Volkswagen, but he’s no stranger to the Fiat group. He began his career at Lancia in 1993, before briefly jumping over to Volkswagen’s Seat brand -- under the tutelage of Walter de Silva -- in 1998. He returned to Fiat in 2001, and helped oversee the development of the 500, along with the Lancia Delta.

In 2007, de Silva -- now the head of Volkswagen’s design staff -- lured Manzoni back to Volkswagen. During this stint, he was deeply involved with the first three Up! concepts, and also had a hand in developing the new Scirocco and the current Golf.

Ferrari says Manzoni will report directly to CEO Luca di Montezemolo, and “will be responsible for creating and defining the styling of Ferrari’s new cars.”

Source: Ferrari, Automotive News

Ferrari Moving Forward With Hybrid Production

2010-01-15T05:46:00.000-08:00

A few months back, Ferrari let their plans for a new hybrid system leak out. The ensuing uproar effectively divided the fans of the Italian Automaker into those who loved the idea, and those who were appalled by it. The decision by Ferrari to use the new powertrain in the 599 GTB is likely to divide this group even more.

While nothing is official yet, it is now known that Ferrari is planning on bringing a prototype hybrid 599 GTB with them to the upcoming Geneva Auto Show. If the schematics were correct, the design would call for the inclusion of 2 electric motors propelling the rear transaxle. The hybrid variant would still make use of the high revving V12, but would also employ the electric drive system to reduce fuel consumption by about 35%.

Power for the electric motors would be stored in a Lithium Ion Battery Stack and can be recharged on the fly thanks to a regenerative braking system. Start/Stop Technology has also made its way onto the new concept to prolong the battery life as much as possible.

Source: inventorspot.com

Alonso suffers first Ferrari shunt

2010-01-15T05:43:00.000-08:00

Fernando Alonso has barely been unveiled as a Ferrari driver and already the Spaniard has suffered his first accident.

Skiing on the slopes at Madonna di Campiglio at part of Ferrari's 'Wroom' media week, the double World Champion took a tumble much to the delight of those present.

According to the Telegraph, the Spaniard 'slid 40 metres down a black run on his backside, skis and poles exploding all around him.'

And there was a dash of irony to it as the slope where he had his tumble is called 'Michael Schumacher.'

Alonso, though, was quick to get up and brush himself off, saying: "I'm not a good skier - but I'm fast."

Source: planet-f1.com

2010 Detroit: Ferrari 599XX is the best thing about Chrysler’s stand

2010-01-13T03:29:00.000-08:00

Who would have thought that one day we’d mention Ferrari and Chrysler in the same sentence – but with Fiat and Chrysler now working together, that day has become a reality.

While the 458 Italia is no where in plain site, Ferrari is using a little section at Chrysler’s display to show off the Ferrari 599XX.

Power for the Ferrari 599XX comes from a 6.0L V12 engine making 700-hp with a maximum torque of 479 lb-ft. Ferrari also added a new F1 inspired gearbox that transfers power to the wheels with gear change time cut down to 60 ms.

The Ferrari 599XX is only available to a select group of clients and we’re not one of them.

Source: egmcartech.com

Official: Gemballa MIG-U1 based on Ferrari Enzo!

2010-01-13T03:23:00.000-08:00

Gemballa, the well-known German tuner specialized in tuning Porsche cars decided that it is time to take on a new challenge and revealed a new customization program based on the Ferrari Enzo and called Gemballa MIG-U1.

The new program includes an all new aerodynamic kit consisting in a new front spoiler lip that generates an additional downthrust of up to 35 kilograms at the front axle but also a new rear spoiler that generates up to 85 kilograms more downthrust on the rear wheels. In order to obtain the best results, the flap lowers, as soon as the car reaches a speed of 120 km/h. Also, Gemballa developed an ventilation- and cooling concept: the front and the back wheel-houses are supplied with cooling air in order to guarantee an optimal use of the high performance braking system; newly designed air exhaust ducts end in and on top of the rear skirt while their dimensions allow supply of an additional radiator.

Source: autospies.com

Speeder Fined Whopping $290,000

2010-01-09T10:00:00.000-08:00

"A Swiss court has fined a multimillionaire a record $290,000 for speeding through a village at 85 mph in his red Ferrari Testarossa, news outlets in Switzerland report.

The fine is based on the unidentified speeder`s wealth and his previous fast offenses. Swiss voters approved a penalty system that replaces prison for such crimes as speeding with `day fines` based on wealth - in this case $22.7 million."

Source: usatoday.com

Bridgestone to supply Potenza S001 tires for the Ferrari 458 Italia

2010-01-08T05:02:00.000-08:00

Bridgestone announced today that it will supply its new Potenza S001 ultra high-performance sport tires to Ferrari for its new 458 Italia supercar.

“Bridgestone is privileged to have been selected by Ferrari as an official tyre supplier partner for the exciting new 458 Italia” said Mr Didier Schneider, Vice President Original Equipment, Bridgestone Europe. “Both Ferrari and Bridgestone compete to the highest of standards in Formula One, the pinnacle of single-seater racing where performance and safety are the ultimate goals. We are proud of this relationship, working both on the race track and on road car projects together.”

Bridgestone has developed ires for Ferrari since the 348 back in 1990. Many of Ferrari’s flagship models have been fitted with Bridgestone tires, including the 612 Scaglietti, the Enzo Ferrari and the Superamerica.

Refresher: Power comes from a mid-rear mounted 4.5L V8 producing 570-hp at 9,000 rpm with a maximum torque of 398 lb-ft at 6,000 rpm. Mated to a dual-clutch 7-speed F1 gearbox, 0 to 62 mph comes in just 3.4 seconds with a top speed of over 202 mph.

Source: egmcartech.com

USD5 million Ferrari 400 Superamerica Cabriolet Pininfarina

2010-01-07T01:40:00.000-08:00

It may be nearly half a century old, but this rare Ferrari 400 Superamerica Cabriolet Pininfarina is appreciating quite nicely with age. So well that when it goes under the hammer in Monaco in May, keen judges are expecting the 1962 supercar could fetch in excess of US$5 million. With CES top of mind right now, one wonders how many products on the showroom floor this year will appreciate in value over the next 50 years.

Just six short-wheelbase Ferrari 400 Superamerica Cabriolets were produced by Pininfarina and this particular example graced both the Geneva and New York International Motor Shows as Ferrari’s own display car. The last one built, it is also the only one of the six to sport covered headlights, further adding to its rarity.

This particular car has been fully restored and was an award winner at the 2009 Pebble Beach concourse. It will be delivered with full documentation from new, with its original tools and books.

Powered by a 3.0 litre V12 engine producing 240 bhp, the Ferrari 400 Superamerica Cabriolet is one of small number of cars built for the legendary Italian car maker’s most exclusive clientel.

The Sporting Classics of Monaco auction will take place on 1 May 2010 in the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco and is organized by RM Auctions.

Source: gizmag.com

Rumormill: Ferrari 599 GTO? EVO says 700-hp bruiser is on the way

2010-01-07T01:32:00.000-08:00

Few words have greater impact when mashed together than "Ferrari" and "GTO." While there are rivals at times, the most expensive car in the word for the last three decades has been the original, Daytona Coupe battling, Le Mans winning Ferrari 250 GTO. Designed by Giotto Bizzarrini and raced into history by Phil Hill, few cars wear the moniker "legendary" quite as well. After all, only 39 were ever made.

But, like Leah, there is another. The mighty Ferrari 288 GTO. Developed -- like Porsche's 959 and 961 -- for Group B action, few if any cars set our hearts so totally on fire. Know nothings might scoff at the 2.85-liter displacement, but those of us in the know will point to the two turbochargers, two intercoolers and 400 stampeding horses. We might even tell them that if they turned the boost pressure up from 11.6 psi to something a bit higher, 600 hp is well within reach. However, the 288 GTO isn't, as just 272 examples (though some say 273) were made. Compare that to the 1,315 Ferrari F40s that were built. A car we should point out, that's basically a 288 GTO with a body kit.

Now there might be three. EVO is reporting that Ferrari is about to let loose a new GTO upon the world in the form of a 700 horsepower monster called the 599 GTO. Obviously, it's an evolution of the street 599, and in fact EVO's claiming it's the racetrack only 599XX for the street. During a recent interview, Ferrari CEO Amedeo Felisa told the Brit mag that when the 458 Italia debuted, the 599 was internally reassigned to the "Sports Car" division, instead of where it used to reside, as a "GT."

More interestingly, should it come to fruition, the 599 GTO will have specs to make Enzo owners smack their own foreheads. 700 hp will come from the raising the 6.0-liter V12's redline to a stunning 9,000 rpm. A faster transmission should shave gear change times down from 100 milliseconds to an essentially F1 quick 60 milliseconds. And it will be light. Everything should add up to a 3.2 second dash to 60 mph and an Enzo-matching top speed of 217 mph. Though if the 599 GTO went a little bit faster than that, we wouldn't be all that surprised.

Source: autoblog.com

Raikkonen: F1 still wants me, but do I still want F1?

2010-01-06T03:19:00.000-08:00

2007 F1 World Champion Kimi Raikkonen drops his strongest hint yet that the 'sabbatical' he initially planned on taking in order to join the World Rally Championship (WRC) with Citroën in 2010 might turn into a permanent switch

Kimi Raikkonen has expressed his conviction that he could breeze back into F1 should he so desire, but as he prepares for his maiden full campaign in the World Rally Championship in 2010, the Finn has dropped his strongest hint yet that he will never be back – and admits that a WRC title would mean 'more' to him than his 2007 drivers' crown in the top flight.

After being evicted by Ferrari to make way for the incoming Fernando Alonso a year before his contract was due to expire, and subsequently failing to reach agreement with former team McLaren-Mercedes on financial matters, Raikkonen turned his attentions to his other main love of rallying, and swiftly concluded a deal with the Citroën Junior Team to join Sébastien Ogier in a Red Bull-backed C4 WRC identical to that of multiple world champion Sébastien Loeb.

Though he has been linked with a return to the grand prix grid in 2011 – possibly with Red Bull Racing, in-place of either Sebastian Vettel or Mark Webber – the Finn has revealed that with off-track politics continuing to prevail over on-track action, he has little real interest in coming back.

“Perhaps for fun I'll go to the Monaco Grand Prix,” he told the Red Bulletin's German website. “As it looks now, I would get another F1 cockpit – but do I want it? A lot of unpleasant things are happening in Formula 1, with one manufacturer leaving after the other or selling their teams.

“In F1, too many things overshadow the racing. There are too many politics, and no-one is willing to say what they think in public, because they are afraid it will be taken out of context. In a year, we'll talk again, but I'm glad I don't have to worry about it at the moment.”

Confessing that F1 had 'become a routine' over the nine years during which he featured as one of its leading lights – with 18 grand prix victories and 62 podium finishes to his name from 156 starts for Sauber, McLaren and Ferrari – Raikkonen is now palpably rejuvenated, with the fire inside him having been re-lit by his new challenge.

Admitting to feeling like he did back when he made his debut at the highest level as a fresh-faced 20-year-old newcomer in early 2001, he added that winning the World Rally Championship would mean 'more than my F1 World Championship title'. He begins his assault on the WRC on the Rally of Sweden on 12 February.

“I'm just starting out and I can sense what a long journey it would be to get to that point,” recognised the Espoo native. “It's definitely the biggest challenge yet – I've got to learn everything from scratch – but I want the challenge. I have to get to know the car, the rallies, how to work with my co-driver, everything.

“I'm looking forward to it, and you've got to set yourself some competition if you really want to know how good you are. The first few rallies are bound to be tough, until I know how fast the other drivers are, and I'm holding back on any personal expectations – I'm sure I won't manage to keep up with the top four (Loeb, Mikko Hirvonen, Dani Sordo and Jari-Matti Latvala).

“The atmosphere in rallying is much nicer – it's more about the performance of the drivers. In F1, each lap is more-or-less the same. When it rains it becomes more difficult, but otherwise it soon becomes a routine. In rallying, every corner or hill might be different from what you expected – that makes it interesting. There is a little bit of the young Kimi in me again; I'm curious and excited.”

Source: crash.net

Gemballa Ferrari Enzo MIG-UI

2010-01-06T02:54:00.000-08:00

Most people would be content with owning a car as exclusive as the Ferrari Enzo. Only 399 were ever made, and more than a few of those have been wrecked, dragging down the number of Enzos on the road. Some people, however, are unhappy with “all those Enzos” running around the streets and feel the need to have a one-off version created.

Mustafa and Ilyas Galadari of Dubai commissioned German Porsche tuner Gemballa to create a very limited edition Enzo called the MIG-UI.

Not much information on the Enzo MIG-UI has been released, but from the pictures it’s easy to see that there isn’t much on the car that hasn’t been touched. The entire body has been completely reworked from front to rear, improving aerodynamics and giving the Enzo a certain race car/spaceship-like appearance. From the side (see below,) I see a bit of the Maserati MC-12 in there. The rear features a huge wing to increase downforce, and a large roof scoop feeds air to the engine.

The interior is quite a different story. Finished in red and black theme, the seats and trim are covered in a quilted red leather and it resembles a luxury car more than a 200+ MPH supercar. That’s alright with me, I suppose that’s what Dubai is all about.

Nothing is known regarding the mechanical changes, but based on what we’ve seen on other Gemballa projects, the Enzo MIG-UI will have some serious power. As if the Enzo wasn’t fast enough.

Stay tuned for more details on the MIG-UI as it’s released.

Source: automoblog.net

Rare Ferrari and Jaguar offered by RM Auctions

2010-01-05T04:53:00.000-08:00

Blenheim, Ontario – A 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 Alloy Berlinetta and a 1958 Tojerio Jaguar Sports racing car, one of only four built, will be presented by RM Auctions at its annual Automobiles of Amelia Island event in Florida in March.

In total, some 100 vehicles are expected to be offered at the March 13 auction, RM’s twelfth annual event at Amelia Island, which will be held prior to the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance show.

“Over the past eleven years, RM has established a proven track record of strong performance at Amelia Island, selling over 25 million-dollar-plus vehicles as well as setting numerous new records,” said Ian Kelleher, RM president and COO. “A popular and established event on our annual calendar, we look forward to returning to Amelia Island’s prestigious Ritz-Carlton Hotel in March to build on our past results and celebrate the fifteenth anniversary of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance.”

Featuring coachwork by Scaglietti, the rare Ferrari was displayed at the 1967 New York Auto Show before being sold. It has recently been restored by its current, long-term owner, and is optioned with such items as air conditioning, power windows and Borrani wire wheels.

Other early Ferrari consignments include a 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 Berlinetta and a low-mileage 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 Daytona Spider once owned by Edsel Ford II.

The 1958 Jaguar was the third of four examples designed by engineer and racing car designer John Tojerio. It was raced for several years at Ecosse, and is offered for sale for the first time in 17 years.

Other early entries include a 1964 Pontiac Banshee coupe, one of only two drivable prototypes, and a correctly-restored 1963 Watson-Offy “Leader Card 500″ Indy Roadster, driven during the 1963-1966 USAC seasons.

Source: canadiandriver.com

Piero Ferrari: Schumacher not disloyal

2009-12-31T01:22:00.000-08:00

Piero Ferrari has dismissed suggestions that Michael Schumacher is betraying Ferrari by making a Formula 1 comeback with Mercedes.

The son of company founder Enzo Ferrari believes the Mercedes move was a pragmatic one as Ferrari had no spare seats, rather than a snub to the team Schumacher had been with since 1996.

"It's true that we were a bit disappointed, because Michael had become our symbol," Ferrari told Gazzetta dello Sport.

"I wouldn't use that expression [betrayal], even though obviously we would have preferred him to stay with us. But he wanted to race and the conditions weren't there for him to do it once again with Ferrari."

Ferrari is sure that Schumacher is still quick enough to make a successful comeback even though he is now in his forties.

"His competitiveness will depend on the car," said Ferrari. "Another great driver, Mario Andretti, had carried on racing until he was over 50. Schumi was and remains a phenomenon. Drivers like him come only once every ten years."

He insisted that Ferrari had no reason to consider moving either of its 2010 signings Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa aside to accommodate Schumacher.

"No, because I never believe in comebacks in sport, and I mean coaches and footballers who go back to a team where they had coached or played before. Time goes on," he said.

"And besides, we have hired Alonso who didn't become world champion by chance, and in fact he has already challenged and beaten Michael before. And then we have Massa, who has matured next to Michael himself.

"I'm convinced that, if we are able to build a good car - the 2009 one wasn't very good - we'll get some satisfaction. In other words, we won't lose races and the title because of the drivers."

Ferrari believes his legendary father would also have accepted Schumacher's decision.

"I'll take a step back in time: I was very close to Lorenzo Bandini and I suffered greatly when he died in Monte Carlo in 1967," said Ferrari.

"Right then, my father gave me some advice that was in line with his policy: 'You must never get too affectionate with racing drivers, because it either ends this way or they go race somewhere else. They are employees, even if very important ones.'"

Source: autosport.com

First Ferrari Dealership to Open in Poland

2009-12-28T12:06:00.000-08:00

Showroom in Warsaw hopes to sell luxury cars

Twenty years ago, the tiny rear-engined Fiat 126 (more commonly known as the "Maluch") was ubiquitous, and the likelihood of seeing a Ferrari on the streets of Krakow or Warsaw was about zero. But times have changed, and while the Italian luxury cars are still a fairly rare sight in the country, the first Ferrari dealership is set to open in Warsaw in early 2010.

The exact date has not yet been announced, as problems have arisen with the showroom's location, the former building of the Warsaw Party House on the Fifth Avenue of Warsaw, ul. Nowy Świat. The building has just been declared a national monument, which means that any planned renovation works must first be approved by the city's conservator of monuments.

However, a lack of a showroom has not stopped Polish clients from pre-ordering their Ferraris, and according to Puls Biznesu, several orders have already been placed, with the California model proving the most popular so far. According to Daniel Chwist, president of Ferrari Poland, the firm is "already in negotiations with potential clients, and we're finalising orders on the California and 612 Scaglietti models." The dealership expects to sell just 10 to 15 cars per year.

Source: krakowpost.com

Ferrari unveils new simulator

2009-12-25T01:06:00.000-08:00

Ferrari has unveiled its very own formula one simulator at its headquarters in Maranello.

A number of Ferrari’s rivals have made use of F1 simulators for years and the Italian team has finally caught up by opening it’s own dedicated facility in Maranello, after a two year partnership with Moog.

"It's an important day for us as the completion of this project means we will now be able to tackle with confidence some of the challenges that make up modern-day F1, while putting Ferrari at the cutting edge in terms of this technology," said Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali.

"Furthermore, I am pleased that such a complex project as this, which got underway around two years ago, has been completed on schedule thanks to the efforts of all those who worked on it."

Andrea Bertolini was the first to try out the new simulator.

Source: uknetguide.co.uk

Gemballa Builds A (S)Tunning Kit For Ferrari Enzo

2009-12-22T11:59:00.000-08:00

Ferrari Enzo gets another tuning kit, but this time from the German specialized in modifying Porsche models – the guys from Gemballa.

The German tuner Gemballa, specialized in modifying Porschce cars, created an extreme package for Ferrari Enzo. The result is called MIG-U1 and has a special look. The Ferrari Enzo is completely modified both on the exterior and on the interior and it is custom made for a client in Dubai.

Ferrari Enzo got a new exhaust system, a new rear bumper, a spoiler and a new front bumper. The guys from Gemballa also integrated a set of LED headlights in the front bumper of the Enzo. At the same time, the roof got an air scoop for the interior ventilation. The interior received black and red leather, sewed only with red line.
Unfortunately for Gemballa, the new MIG-U1 missed his debut at Dubai Motor Show – in case they wanted this. For the moment, the German tuners kept secret the identity of the owner or an eventual production quota for this kit. On the other hand, there is the possibility that the car made for the Dubai client is unique, meaning that this is the only apparition of the Gemballa MIG-U1 kit.

Source: mibz.com

Ferrari engine to use less fuel in 2010 - report

2009-12-17T03:08:00.000-08:00

Ferrari will have a more fuel-efficient engine in 2010, Spain's Diario AS has suggested.

To coincide with Formula One's ban on refuelling, the sports newspaper said the Maranello based team is working on efficiency improvements allowed under the current engine freeze regulations.

To comply with the test ban, Felipe Massa this week has at Mugello been at the wheel of a two-year-old Ferrari single seater fitted with demonstration tyres.

AS however implied that some "internal solutions" were trialled.

"The test was mainly for him (Massa) and what is certain is that he is even quicker than before his accident of Hungary," said Ferrari development driver Marc Gene.

The Spaniard also sounded confident about Ferrari's 2010 car, which is codenamed 661.

"The wind tunnel data is good and makes us optimistic, but we don't know where the others are so we will have to wait until we see it on the track," added Gene.

Source: motorsport.com

Chris Evans puts classic Ferrari up for sale

2009-12-15T02:59:00.000-08:00

If you've got a lump of cash burning a hole in your pocket, we reckon you could do much worse than making radio DJ Chris Evans an offer for his 1959 Ferrari 250 LWB California.

The ginger car-nut bought the classic piece of automotive history in 2007, but no longer has room for it in his well-stocked garage following the purchase of a short-wheelbase California in 2008 which hit the record books, selling for a whopping £5.6 million.

While there is no price set on this pristine-condition Italian it's unlikely to go for quite as much. Though its rarity means it will probably still command a price tag with plenty of zeroes on the end.

And there'll be no need to worry about the car's heritage either; the 250 California comes with a certificate of authenticity from the Ferrari factory in Maranello.

It is still in the original Verde Pino Metallizzato colour with a cream leather interior. Definitely one to add to the dream garage.

Source: autoblog.com

Ferrari F50 Crashed in Holland

2009-12-13T06:39:00.000-08:00

One of the most exclusive Ferrari supercars has crashed in the Netherlands near Rotterdam. The Ferrari F50 drove on the A20 highway when the driver lost control of the Italian supercar. The vehicle hit a tree next to the exit Zevenkamp.

A child was driving along with his farther in the Ferrari. The child got injured, broke both legs and was brought to hospital. The 56-year old driver had minor injuries.

As you can see on the pictures, the supercar is ready for the scrap yard.

Source: gtspirit.com

One-Off Ferrari P540 Superfast Aptera Delivered to Owner

2009-12-12T04:21:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of one-off coachbuilt automobiles that have gone before, Pininfarina, Ferrari, and American Edward Walson have teamed up to create the Ferrari P540 Superfast Aptera. The vehicle was commissioned by Walson, son of the creator of cable television, to emulate the Fantuzzi-designed custom re-bodied Ferrari featured prominently in the Edgar Allan Poe-inspired 1968 Fellini short film, "Toby Dammit."

The P540 Superfast Aptera started life as a production Ferrari 599 GTB, retaining that car's crucial safety equipment including bumper structures and windshield. Around that basis, custom bodywork was created and the chassis was stiffened extensively to compensate for the roof being removed. In the end, due to lightweight construction and material use (including carbon fiber) the P540 Superfast Aptera weighs in at just 44 lbs more than a standard 599 GTB. Running gear is largely standard 599 GTB spec.

The project began in 2008 when Walson met with Pininfarina designers to start work on the car, creating a modern version of the gold-colored movie car.

"I had always dreamed of designing sports cars, and when I saw this film the decision came of its own accord: one day I would have 'my' Ferrari," Walson said.

Initial sketches were produced and 14 months later the final road car had been built. Walson recently completed several shakedown runs in the one-off Ferrari and took delivery of the car at the Italian automaker's Fiorano headquarters, where he remarked, "This is the most special Christmas present of my life."

The car is the second to be born from Ferrari's Special Projects program that offers owners customized cars far beyond the standard options sheet.

Source: wot.motortrend.com

Acer Brings Ferrari One Notebook to US

2009-12-11T04:46:00.000-08:00

Acer has announced that it is bringing its slick Ferrari One notebook to the US. The machine has an 11.6-inch screen and uses a dual core AMD Athlon 64 X2 processor running at 1.2GHz. The notebook uses Windows 7 Home Premium and has ATI HD 3200 graphics.

Other features include 4GB of RAM, 250GB HDD, a built-in memory card reader and WiFi. A webcam is built in and the machine has dual stereo speakers. Power for the machine comes from a 6-cell Li-ion battery promising up to five hours of battery life. The machine has an MSRP of $599.99, which isn't that bad considering it's Ferrari branded.

The Ferrari logo and red cover on the outside of the notebook are the coolest features of the machine. The notebook is available now for purchase at retailers.

Source: i4u.com

Ferrari 458 Italia: a truly astonishing supercar

2009-12-09T13:40:00.000-08:00

2009 has been an incredible year for the Ferrari marque, largely thanks to the overwhelmingly positive response to the unveiling of the 458 Italia supercar at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Just in case there was any doubt in people's minds as to how popular the Ferrari's F430 successor is, Top Gear magazine recently named it its Supercar of the Year and, more importantly, the 458 Italia also bagged the British publication's Car of the Year accolade – and this, in the same year that the McLaren MP4-12C and Mercedes SLS AMG showed up.

That's quite some achievement, but it shouldn’t come as a surprise, given that the new Ferrari is as close to perfection as a motor can possibly be. Despite the 458 Italia being Ferrari’s new entry-level model, it’s got everything the F430 has and much, much more. Much of this can be attributed to the Italian marque recruiting a couple of big names to give input into its creation.

Legendary Italian styling house Pininfarina continued its longstanding relationship with Ferrari (Testarossa, 612 Scaglietti, 360 Spider) by styling the new car. And if that wasn’t enough for you, Michael Schumacher, arguably the greatest F1 driver ever, was involved with the 458 Italia project from its inception. His notable contributions include test-driving the 458 and influencing the implementation of an F1-esque steering wheel – which has many of the components you’d expect on the dashboard, all there right in front of you.

So what kind of performance levels are we talking about here? Well, you’re looking at an insanely fast top speed of 202mph and a 0-62mph that falls below 3.4 seconds, all courtesy of a 4.5-litre V8 (the inspiration behind the car’s name) that punches out an almighty 570bhp at 9,000rpm.

Sales are expected to begin in Europe in 2010, with prices for the new entry-level Prancing Horse starting at around £150,000.

Source: orange.co.uk

Ferrari California by Novitec Rosso

2009-12-08T04:30:00.000-08:00

German tuner Novitec Rosso has unveiled their program for the Ferrari California. Sporty styling, a custom-tailored tire/wheel combination with diameters of 21 and 22 inches, suspension modifications, more power and interior options are included inside the package.

The aerodynamic kit contains parts made from especially lightweight clear-coated carbon fiber. The front spoiler attaches to the production bumper. The shape reduces lift on the front axle for better directional stability at high speeds according to Novitec. The sides are upgraded with rocker panel moldings and black side markers. They even equip the California with a newly designed diffuser for the rear apron and a spoiler lip on the trunk lid.

Three-piece NOVITEC ROSSO NF3 wheels are available in a combination of size 9Jx21 wheels in front and size 11.5Jx22 on the rear axle. Pirelli supplied the tuner with tires custom-tailored to this Ferrari. The front axle features tires in size 255/30 ZR 21, in the rear tires in size 315/25 ZR 22.

A set of sport springs lower the ride height by 35 millimeters. A hydraulic front lift system makes sure you have enough grond clearance and raises the front of the car by 40 millimeters at the push of a button in the interior. At a second push of the button or automatically when reaching a speed of 80km/h the front reverts to its original position.

The tuning stage for the Ferrari California increases power output of the 4.3-liter V8 engine by 40hp / 29.4kW to 500hp / 368kW. The peak torque grows from 485 to 518Nm at 5,300rpm. This increase of power was achieved by implementing a newly calibrated engine management system with custom mapping for injection and ignition. It also includes a new higher redline speed of 8,300rpm. A new stainless-steel exhaust system with metal catalysts and a flap actuator complete the package.

As a customer you can get an interior customization with leather and Alcantara. The choice of available colors and meticulously sewn upholstery designs is unlimited.

Source: gtspirit.com

Alonso to race for Ferrari in 2010

2009-12-08T04:27:00.000-08:00

Despite being under contract to Renault for 2009, Spain’s Fernando Alonso, the 2005 and 2006 world champion F1 driver, was spotted in Maranello making successive visits to team Ferrari HQ over a fortnight in November, spending two days checking out the factory and meeting engineers as well as Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemolo.

The 28 year-old will get his first crack at Ferrari’s new 2010 F1 race car in February, however, Brazilian Filipe Massa is still recovering from the head injury he sustained in a crash at the last Hungarian GP.

Ferrari’s preparations, claims di Montezemolo, are on track to put them back in the F1 reckoning in 2010.

Source: theromanforum.com

Ferrari World Will Be Inaugurated In Abu Dhabi

2009-12-07T04:22:00.000-08:00

Dubai, U.A.E. – December 7, 2009-Travelers around the world know that sightseeing tours in Dubai are famous. People visiting Dubai visit Abu Dhabi, the capital of UAE. The world’s first Ferrari theme park will be built in Abu Dhabi. It also happens to be the largest indoor theme park in the world. The famous Italian car makers have announced to make a huge theme park based on the famous brand names in Abu Dhabi. It will be named Ferrari World and will greet the guests somewhere in 2010. The plan is to give intense multi sensory experience to everyone.

This incredible theme park will have a traditional red coloured roof. It will be in a shape of a side profile of the famous Ferrari GT body which will stretch in 200,000 square meters. It boasts of having made the biggest Ferrari logo ever. There will be twenty other attractions including rides for children belonging to all age groups. The park will be equipped with a high-tech theatre, an amusement park and the fastest roller coaster in the world with the speed of 124 mph. A driving instruction facility is also available at this park for adults and children. This prodigious theme park will compel tourist to visit UAE. Along with attractions in Dubai, this theme park will appeal to the people all around the world and especially the Ferrari adherents. Various events and races will be hosted here.

Dubai Tour Company by One World Travels is in the touring business since last many years. The company endeavors to provide business and leisure travelers with exceptionally priced Dubai tour packages and hotel bookings. The service provided is superior and more affordable in comparison with other operators and it has won hearts of many customers. The company is one of the strong contenders to be a market leader because it offers best tours in Dubai.

If you wish to know more about Dubai Tour Company, you can contact them on phone at +9714 3372010 or email them at info@owtravels.com or visit us at http://www.dubaitourcompany.com

About One World: One of the few travel companies to ensure tourist satisfaction over and above all else, One World is an established tourism organization in Dubai. The Dubai tour company arranges Dubai daily tours and desert safaris for tourists, visiting expats and local residents alike at fares far better then those offered by the competition.

Source: your-story.org

Ferrari pays tribute to AUTOSPORT

2009-12-07T04:21:00.000-08:00

Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo has paid tribute to AUTOSPORT during a video speech transmitted at the AUTOSPORT Awards in London on Sunday night.

With his Maranello-based team picking up a Gregor Grant trophy in honour of the 80 years of magic that Ferrari has delivered in both its road car and racing exploits, di Montezemolo recognised the historic parallels between Ferrari's entry into F1 and the arrival of AUTOSPORT in 1950.

"I am really sorry not be with you tonight at such an important evening - an important evening for us, for Ferrari, because thanks to AUTOSPORT we celebrate 80 years of the Scuderia," said di Montezemolo in the video transmission.

"Eighty years are many years and if I think of the beginning, if I think of the dream of a visionary man like Enzo Ferrari and I think where we are now after so many years, I think all of you have to be very proud.

"I think we have to thank all the men and the women that it these years have done a lot to create maintain and develop the Ferrari myth all over the world.

"It is also an important evening for AUTOSPORT and I am very pleased to share this evening with all of you because our F1 activity has started in 1950, so 60 years ago, and in the same year AUTOSPORT was born.

"So congratulations, best wishes and Happy Birthday even to AUTOSPORT not only Ferrari."

Di Montezemolo said he also hoped that Ferrari and F1 could look forward to a brighter future, after this season's campaign was marred by off track politics.

"What I hope to be in front of a new season with less polemics, less controversies, more clear rules and with the sport at the centre of our activity, of this fantastic sport that is F1," he said.

"That means technology, means innovation, means competition, means sport competition between drivers and cars. So thank you again, sorry to not be with you and all the best to all of you."

Source: autosport.com

Rendered Speculation: Ferrari 458XX developmental track-car

2009-12-05T15:09:00.000-08:00

Ferrari has stumbled upon one heck of a formula with its XX development programs. They've found that their most wealthy clients aren't just willing to help Maranello develop new components for future supercars, they're actually willing to pay for the privilege. And pay big, too – as in $2 million big.

The program started with the Enzo-based FXX, evolved with the FXX Evoluzione, and carries on with the Fiorano-based 599XX. So what's next up Ferrari's sleeve? A 458XX wouldn't be too far off the mark.

If the outgoing lineup (and those that came before) can serve as any indication, the new mid-engined V8 sports car is poised to spawn numerous variations, including the requisite Spider, a new Challenge-spec racer, a replacement for the existing F430 GT2, a stripped-down successor to the 360 CS and 430 Scuderia, and, if this speculative rendering from Luxury4Play has its way, a 458XX as well. If and when it does come along, we'd expect it to look something along these lines – which is to say, "tasty."

Source: autoblog.com

Ferrari F40's meet in Monterey in 2010: includes video

2009-12-04T04:54:00.000-08:00

In 2010, the Ferrari F40 Reunion Group announced its intention to participate in the Concorso Italiano, in order to celebrate 20 years of the famed 3-liter stallion from Maranello.

Ferrari’s F40 was built to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Ferrari and was described as a real racing car that can be driven on the road. Designed by Pinnfarina, the F40 has an enormous Plexiglas engine cover that can be lifted and exposes the 3-liter, twin turbocharged, V8 engine that produces 478 hp at 7,000 rpm while reaching speeds of 200 mph or more.

According to F40 owner and spokesman for the Reunion Group, Jas Dhillon, “our goal is to have well over forty F40’s on the fairways at Laguna Seca Golf Ranch this August 13th and we hope that fans and enthusiasts will plan to join us for this historic occasion.”

The sales success of the F40 allowed Ferrari to build 1,315 (depending on who you ask) models from 1987 to 1992, and due to the high production run of the cars their prices have not yet reached the stratosphere like other Ferrari’s. The Concorso Italiano is scheduled for August 13th 2010 and is part of the Monterey historic car week.

Source: examiner.com

Ferrari 458 Italia Receives Prestigious Bbc Top Gear Magazine 'Car Of The Year' And 'Supercar Of The Year' Awards

2009-12-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

MARANELLO, ITALY - December 3, 2009: The Ferrari 458 Italia has scooped two prestigious awards from BBC Top Gear Magazine, one of the world’s most influential automotive magazines. Not only did the British magazine nominate the 458 Italia “Supercar of the Year”, but also, for the very first time for Ferrari, the coveted title of “Car of the Year”. This brings Ferrari’s tally of consecutive Top Gear Magazine Awards to the astonishing figure of eight in seven years.

The Ferrari 458 Italia was revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September to immediate critical acclaim. Following an extensive international media test drive programme in Maranello, the home of the fabled Prancing Horse, the car has been the subject of enthusiastic reviews, with its handling, roadholding, ride comfort and performance all being subject to the kind of superlatives rarely seen from the world’s leading journalists.

In electing the Ferrari 458 Italia as their “Supercar of the Year”, BBC Top Gear Magazine underlined how it has established “the new benchmark in getting from A to B as rapidly as possible.” They also described the 570-hp V8-engined berlinetta as “a game-changing car.”

When nominating the car for the overall top award as “Car of the Year”, BBC Top Gear Magazine described how it became “our winner because the scope of its abilities is absolutely breathtaking”, concluding that the Ferrari 458 Italia “isn’t just a worthy winner, it’s off the scale!”

Source: theautochannel.com

Bianchi signs long-term Ferrari deal

2009-12-02T06:24:00.001-08:00

Ferrari has signed Formula 3 Euro Series champion Jules Bianchi to a long-term deal.

The 20-year-old Frenchman has been given an undefined role within the team, but could become test and reserve driver following his maiden Formula 1 outing at Jerez this week.

"We are very happy to do this long-term deal, which was completed a short time ago," Bianchi's manager Nicolas Todt told AUTOSPORT.

"His role is undefined for the moment, but from now on, he will be at Ferrari's disposal. His first Ferrari drive is obviously at this young driver test."

Ferrari is yet to announce its test and reserve driver for 2010, although it has Giancarlo Fisichella, Luca Badoer and Marc Gene under contract in addition to its race drivers Felipe Massa and Fernando Alonso.

"I am more than happy," said Bianchi, whose race programme next year will be in the GP2 Series with multiple champion team ART. "It is very difficult to explain how I feel, but it is something very special.

"I know this is the first step on a journey that could turn out very nicely, but I'm equally aware that there is still a long way to go to Formula 1."

Source: autosport.com

Schuey: 'F1 return is possible'

2009-12-01T02:37:00.000-08:00

Michael Schumacher has refused to deny speculation linking him to a racing return with Mercedes GP next year.

Competing at a Brazilian kart event last weekend, the 40-year-old responded to questions about Formula One by saying: "Right now I am concentrating only on these kart races.

"Who knows? Anything can happen."

Schumacher also confirmed that the nect injury that prevented his return to F1 with Ferrari this year is now healed.

"I don't have any problems with my neck. It's 100 per cent," he said.

Source: autocar.co.uk

Ferrari Enzo replacement to be lighter and quicker

2009-11-30T03:29:00.000-08:00

It's no secret that Ferrari is hard at work on a successor to the Enzo with Ferrari boss Amedeo Felisa confirming a number of future models last month. But, at this early stage, that’s the only info Maranello is willing to give up leaving space for plenty of rumour and speculation.

Recent reports are stating that Ferrari’s new hero car, codenamed F70, will be built with a greater focus on weight loss rather than bigger power.

Taking inspiration from its 2007 concept car named Millechili (Italian for “1000kg”), Ferrari will be looking to make the new F70 significantly lighter than the Enzo at 1365kg.

A new, smaller tub, full carbon-fibre body panels and a spartan interior could help bring the new Ferrari’s kerb weight down to near Lotus Exige levels.

Ferrari reportedly wants to retain a 12-cylinder powerplant in its top car, but with Europe’s emissions laws tightening around it, the supercar company may have no choice but to downsize its engines.

Smaller, lighter and more efficient than the nearly eight-year-old Enzo, the F70 is likely powered by a 520kW twin-turbo V8 offering similar raw power to the legendary F40 - if Ferrari can overcome the issue of turbo lag.

Production of the F70 is expected to begin in 2012.

Source: carandsuv.co.nz

First Drive: Ferrari 458 Italia

2009-11-30T03:21:00.000-08:00

The new Ferrari 458 Italia has supermodel looks, but what’s it like to drive?

The Ferrari 458 Italia is the car tuned by seven-time Formula One champion Michael Schumacher.

The German, regarded by some as the greatest driver of all time, spent roughly 40 hours behind the wheel of the new Ferrari 458 Italia, feeding his unique insights to the engineers based on his considerable experience in car set-up.

That’s no guarantee of success for the latest supercar to wear the legendary Prancing Horse badge, but it’s not a bad start.

Neither is the first impression you get when you see the 458 in the flesh. It looks sensational – more stealth fighter than road car. It’s a cleaner design than the F430.

The big air intakes that dominated the flanks of the F430 have been replaced by more discreet vents on the car’s window sills and under the rear wings.

The vertical daytime running lights add another dash of theatre, while the cluster of three exhaust pipes at the rear looks like a jet’s afterburner.

Step inside and the Ferrari 458 Italia is equally impressive. Other manufacturers like to talk about a driver-oriented, cockpit-feel, but this car delivers. In fact, the passenger is almost cut out of the picture altogether.

There is no conventional centre stack. Instead, there are two screens either side of the giant tacho in the instrument panel. The one on the left has the read-out for the vehicle set-up and (too small) digital speedo, while the one on the right has the sat-nav and audio (there’s no CD player, instead you get a red Ferrari iPod and docking station).

The only buttons within easy reach of the passenger are the air-con controls and the three buttons on the centre console – the launch control, reverse gear selector and auto transmission setting.

In contrast, almost every system in the car is at the fingertips of the driver. There are no indicator stalks, the blinkers are activated by buttons on the steering wheel, as are the headlights and windscreen wipers. It seems a little odd at first, but works well. The driver can also select a softer suspension setting via another button on the wheel, while the trademark “Manettino” switch allows you to choose from five different set-ups.

The rest of the cabin is traditional leather-lined luxury, including supportive racing seats, with great side and thigh support.

Start the Ferrari 458 Italia up, blip the throttle and the intoxicating sound of a thoroughbred V8 fills the cabin.

The Italia’s 425kW V8 sounds surprisingly tame and refined when you’re driving sedately around town. But as with most sports cars these days, the Ferrari has an exhaust bypass flap that opens up as the revs rise. The harder you push the 458, the better it sounds, all the way to an ear-splitting 9000rpm.

But the noise is only a small part of the fun. The acceleration is mind-boggling. Ferrari says the 458 reaches 100km/h in 3.4secs and 200km/h in 10.4secs. After a day driving the car on the track and the open road, we found no reason to doubt those figures.

Some of the credit for the blistering acceleration goes to the Ferrari’s seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission. The maker decided not to develop a manual transmission for the 458 because it says the dual-clutch delivers noticeably better performance while using less fuel.

The shifts in the Ferrari 458 Italia are razor-sharp and intuitive, with the car downshifting automatically each time you hit the awesome ceramic brakes. Each downshift is accompanied by a wonderful-sounding blip of the throttle, whether you change gears by the paddleshifts or let the 458 do it for you. The car also gargles and spits when you come off the throttle.

A flick of the Manettino really transforms the car from luxury grand tourer to race-car. The Manettino adjusts the car’s suspension, throttle sensitivity, gear shift patterns, brake feel and suspension settings. It also adjusts the sensitivity of the various driver aids, including the traction control, stability control and electronic diff, which distributes torque between the rear wheels to increase drive out of corners.

The suspension and steering are the final pieces in the jigsaw and neither disappoints. As always, we’ll reserve judgment on the ride until we get the car on local roads, but it was impressively well-controlled and comfortable on patchy road surfaces. The strangely named “bumpy road” setting also works well. It’s only available on the sportier settings and it’s designed to improve the tyres contact with the road on rough surfaces.

The setting softens the dampers so the car is less prone to skip about over corrugations.

The Ferrari 458 Italia’s grip was phenomenal, even when driven enthusiastically on wet roads, while body roll was hardly noticeable through corners. The car’s exceptional handling encourages you to push harder at each corner, while the steering is incredibly sharp and direct, adding to the overall feeling of supreme surefootedness.

It may be hideously expensive and unashamedly politically incorrect, but the Ferrari 458 Italia is one truly impressive machine.

Source: smh.com.au

Schumacher not ruling out F1 comeback

2009-11-29T12:10:00.000-08:00

SAO PAULO (AP) — Michael Schumacher says he has fully healed from his neck injury and indicated that he has not ruled out a return to Formula One next season.

Schumacher made the comments in Brazil, where he competed in a charity karting race hosted by former Ferrari teammate Felipe Massa.

When asked by local reporters whether he would be back in F1 in 2010, the German told the Terra Web site and other media: "Who knows?"

Schumacher said Sunday he has recovered from the neck injury that kept him from attempting a temporary comeback with Ferrari earlier this year.

Source: usatoday.com

Speculation: Ferrari F70 – The Angriest Rearing Horse Of All Time

2009-11-27T12:15:00.000-08:00

It seems that Ferrari wants to return at the hypercars table and according to the international press it’s preparing the Ferrari F70, a model that competes with Lamborghini Reventon or even Veyron.

There are already 5 years since Ferrari Enzo left the supercars stage and Ferrari is kind of back footed on this market. But Scuderia is not wasting time and it’s preparing the next road and circuit rocket, called Ferrari F70, according to Autoexpress. The Brits say that this supercar will be the spiritual successor of Ferrari F40. The car will use turbo, just like his grandfather that broke some hearts back in 1987 when he first popped out. Rumor has it the this model will feature a Twin-Turbo V8 engine that develops over 650 HP.

You will say that the F70 stands no chance in front of the Veyron or Reventon with that kind of power under the hood, but the Brits also say that this car will underpin the Ferrari Millechili

concept (the one shown in the picture), which, you’ve guessed has exactly 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs). So, Scuderia wants to build a car with the same powerhorse as Enzo, but 40% lighter, which will, of course, be more sporty, but also more restrained when talking about CO2 emissions. For all these, it is expected that the carbon fiber and the aluminium will be the main ingredient. In the same time, we are sure that, in this project, a lot of Formula 1 technology will be involved. The goal is to make a supercar that will hit 60 mph somewhere around the psychological 3 second margin.

Just like the Enzo, it is said that Ferrari F70 will be limited to 399 pieces, meaning it will be very hunted among the wealthy car enthusiasts, so it the price comes to confirm this, over €700,000 (that’s about $1,000,000). It is rumored that this car will hit the market in 2012.

Source: mibz.com

Next-Gen Dodge Viper Won’t Get Ferrari Technology

2009-11-27T12:11:00.000-08:00

AS THE DUST settles around the Fiat and Chrysler alliance and the recently revealed plans for the US carmaker’s future, rumours that Ferrari will play a role in the development of the next generation Viper have begun to surface.

Dodge brand chief Ralph Gilles confirmed this week that while the next generation Viper may benefit from Maranello’s knowledge and experience, no platforms of technology will be shared between the two.

Gilles added fuel to the fire earlier this week when, in a statement following a record Laguna Seca lap by the Dodge Viper ACR, he said “When we have partners across the ocean who are known as the best sports-car makers in the world, the future opportunities are huge.”

In a later talk with US magazine Auto Week, Gilles qualified Dodge’s position.

“They really know sports cars. We just want some advice,” Gilles said. “Ferrari is Ferrari, Viper is Viper. Please don’t go there.”

The current generation Viper is due to be retired around the middle of next year, and a replacement is not expected until later in 2012.

Source: themotorreport.com.au

Ferrari F70 blasts in

2009-11-26T03:44:00.000-08:00

Sensational new Ferrari is ready to blow Bugatti away with advanced chassis and powerful yet efficient twin-turbo V8...

It’s being hailed as the ultimate, most advanced road car Ferrari has ever made. Aiming to leave exotic rivals including the Lamborghini Reventón and Bugatti Veyron trailing, the ferocious flagship will break from the norm in more ways than one. And our stunning illustrations show how such a model could look.

It will be not only quicker and more focused than the Enzo, but smaller, lighter and more fuel efficient, too. In addition, the latest rumours suggest a twin-turbo V8 will provide the power. It will be the first use of turbos in a production Ferrari since the 1987 F40, making this the spiritual successor to that definitive hypercar.

Internally codenamed the F70, the newcomer will use knowledge gathered from the FXX scheme. This invited customers to buy a pumped-up and stripped-out version of the Enzo for £1.5million, but allowed them to drive their purchases only on approved track days. Afterwards, they briefed Ferrari on possible improvements.

The philosophy behind this new downsized and lightweight hypercar is derived from 2007’s Millechilli concept. Although little more than a fibreglass model, it demonstrated Ferrari’s aim to increase the performance of future models by shedding weight, not by hiking power. Millechilli means 1,000kg in Italian. It’s an ambitious target for the F70’s kerbweight – a full 365kg less than the Enzo – but Ferrari is ready to apply every weight-saving measure possible.

Rival McLaren is leading the way in lightweight construction, with an F1-style carbon fibre tub forming the basis of its MP4-12C supercar, so Ferrari wants to regain the initiative in this area. An overhauled and shrunken tub, carbon fibre body panels – plus carbon-ceramic brakes and a no-frills cabin – should keep weight to a minimum. Ferrari already heads efforts to reduce CO2, having slashed output by 10 per cent in 2009. It promises further cuts from its current 387g/km average by 2012.

But reducing body mass alone won’t be enough to achieve this. To slash CO2 significantly, the engine also needs an advanced design. The Enzo’s V12 will make way for a new direct-injection twin-turbo V8 – the same layout as in the legendary F40. Output is likely to be on a par with the Enzo’s 660bhp, but that lower weight should put performance on another level. Expect a three-second 0-60mph time and top speed in excess of 230mph.

A twin-turbo V6 is also under consideration, to replace the 458 Italia and California’s V8s. Yet before either unit is signed off, engineers are keen to eliminate turbo lag. The F40 was famous for the delay between throttle inputs and the arrival of a savage wave of torque. But Ferrari claims it won’t resort to turbos again until it’s perfected the technology to give the instant response for which its naturally aspirated cars are renowned.

One option is electric or hybrid chargers. These use a small electric motor to spool the turbos up to operating speeds much faster than in a normal set-up, where exhaust gas has to be recirculated. The result is a virtual elimination of turbo lag and a linear power delivery that will be familiar to owners of current Ferraris.

Just like the Enzo, the F70 will be strictly limited to a production run of 399 examples, adhering to Ferrari’s philosophy of always building one less car than you think you can sell. But not just anyone will be able to put their name on the waiting list. Buyers will need to be personally invited by Ferrari to stump up the expected million (£600,000) asking price when the car goes on sale in 2012.

Source: autoexpress.co.uk

Ferrari Designs New Door Style

2009-11-25T05:44:00.000-08:00

For a long time, car doors have been pretty well standardized. Sure, some exotic manufacturers like Lamborghini, Delorean and Mercedes have introduced scissor and gullwing style openings, but for the most part car doors open exactly as you’d expect them to.

But Ferrari’s rethinking the whole door idea. As filed in this patent, the new idea incorporated the door with the front fender, placing the forward hinge just ahead of the front tire’s centerline. With the upper hinge placed atop the corner of the windshield race-car style, the door opens in a butterfly fashion similar to a Le Mans prototype. But, incorporating the fender gives a huge opening, with Ferrari engineers citing a large enough opening that passengers can place their foot directly behind the front wheel.

Source: carguideweb.com

Ferrari P4/5 Competizione Gets Green Light

2009-11-24T06:43:00.000-08:00

Remember the P4/5 Competizione project that Glickenhaus had in the works? We can now confirm that the project is happening. It looks likely that the team will be aiming to be at the 2010 Nurburgring 24hr race with the new car.

Not much is known for now apart from the fact that this new P4/5 will share it’s underpinnings with one of the Ferrari V8 models rather than the V12 Enzo that the original car was based on. We’ll probably get to know more about the car as the project progreses but for now it’s in it’s very early stages.

Source: gtspirit.com

Rock on with the Ferrari Guitar by Blackbird

2009-11-24T06:40:00.000-08:00

You have got the Ferrari hat , the watch and now you can have the Ferrari branded guitar. Slick it is with carbon fiber galore, a red Maranello interior , accentuated red A string and Ferrari Scuderia emblems. Something tells us these guitars will end up on walls and not in the hands of talented rockers. Getting one will be tough though...

The first run of these guitars is already sold out. So look to Ebay or the next round.

Pricing starts at $1500.

Key Features:

Exceptional Carbon Fiber strength and environmental stability
Hollow neck with Stereo Sound Port® in head of the guitar
Asymmetric Acoustic Design® with off-set sound-hole
Ultralight for enhanced sound, comfort and balance
Full scale length (24.5")
3D sculpted back for improved ergonomics, playability & durability
Optional electronics for amazing amplified tone

Source: luxvelocity.typepad.com

The New Ferrari Store Opens in the Heart of Athens

2009-11-24T06:36:00.000-08:00

MARANELLO, ITALY - November 24, 2009: The first Ferrari Store in Greece was inaugurated today in the very heart of Athens, in Kolokotroni Street. A special selection of Ferraris, displayed in front of the store, framed the ribbon cutting ceremony, with Massimiliano Ferrari, Ferrari Licencing and Retail Director, Theodore N. Charagionis, Charagionis Group Executive Chairman, and Giancarlo Fisichella, Ferrari driver, who officially inaugurated the store, then signed the counter and greeted the fans.

Located in an historic building of the city, the around 300 square metre Ferrari Store is spread over two floors, with six windows providing a fascinating view of the Ferrari experience already from the street. Developed entirely by the Studio Iosa Ghini, its concept sees it as much as a homage to the history and spirit of Ferrari’s twin souls of racing and luxury as a straightforward store. A replica of the Formula 1 single-seater welcomes visitors as they enter, while a pit-lane traced on the ground accompanies them into the shop and leads them to the various areas into which it is divided. Each area has thus been carefully designed as a special, one-off space in which shoppers can truly embrace the Ferrari experience. It will offer a wide selection of products from the Prancing Horse ranges for GT owners and enthusiasts, and Ferrari fans.

The Athens Ferrari Store joins the other prestige Prancing Horse retail locations around the world, including those in Milan, Rome and Venice (Italy), London (UK), Barcelona (Spain), San Francisco and Miami (USA), Macao (China) and Dubai (UAE), the largest in the world, inaugurated this month. Ferrari Store Athens will be managed by the Charagionis Group, specialized in the investment, development and management of retail, shopping and leisure centres as well as in the expansion of retail activities. The Ferrari Store development programme includes plans to bring the number of openings to more than 50 over the next two years in Europe, America, and the Middle and Far East.

Source: theautochannel.com

Jordan: Schumi will ask to be released from Ferrari

2009-11-23T03:51:00.001-08:00

Despite all the denials that have been made this past week, Eddie Jordan is adamant Michael Schumacher will be with Mercedes GP next season.

Last week, rumours of Schumacher's pending came to the fore with Jordan stating that it's just a matter of time after he saw the German talking to Mercedes GP team boss Ross Brawn as well as members of Daimler.

The rumours were subsequently down played by both Mercedes and Schumacher's spokesperson, although neither said it was a definite 'no.'

Jordan, though, is adamant it will happen, even going as far as to say that Schumacher was due to meet with Ferrari to discuss being released from his consultancy contract.

"I believe it is going to happen. It started with a meeting between Michael, Ross Brawn and Daimler chief executive Dieter Zetsche at the Abu Dhabi GP," the former F1 team boss told The Sun.

"At the moment, Michael cannot drive for Mercedes because he has a consultancy contract with Ferrari.

"But I understand he was due to meet Ferrari President Luca di Montezemolo with a view to being released. Michael likes the idea of driving a Mercedes run by Ross. It's a mouth-watering idea."

Source: planet-f1.com

Ferrari sales turn around in some markets

2009-11-20T03:40:00.000-08:00

A NUMBER of Ferrari's overseas markets are turning positive, particularly the Middle East and Asia-Pacific, including China, which despite a recent heavy tax on luxury goods is showing a positive sales trend.

The Italian supercar manufacturer revealed this last month when it announced its financial results for the first nine months of 2009.

The onset of the global economic slump over a year ago caused high-end carmakers' sales to decelerate by as much as 40 per cent.

Ferrari was not spared by the credit crunch either but the prancing horse said that nonetheless it managed to increase market share in all of the countries where it is present.

It ended the third quarter of 2009 with revenues of 396 million euros (S$817 million) - down 12 per cent from the 450 million euros in the same period last year - and 1,454 cars delivered to clients in Q3, down 4.3 per cent.

For the first nine months of 2009, Ferrari's revenues totalled 1.28 billion euros, down 9.3 per cent from 1.42 billion euros in the same period in 2008.

Year-to-date deliveries came up to 4,680 cars, or down 6.9 per cent, while trading profit was 176 million euros, down 27.6 per cent from 243 million euros in the same period last year.

To put the results in perspective, the company pointed out that 2008 was the most economically successful year in Ferrari's entire history.

Source: motoring.asiaone.com

Ferrari Working On Limited Edition 599 GTO

2009-11-19T03:20:00.000-08:00

Ferrari recently showed off its new Laboratorio Technologico 599XX experimental car based on the regular 599 GTB Fiorano, and while we all wished the wild concept would eventually go into production, the chances of that happening are next to nil except maybe for a few lucky people enlisted as Ferrari client test drivers.

However, a tamer version of the car, while still aimed at well-heeled track enthusiasts, could eventually be launched--and be actually road-legal.

Similar in theory to the F430 Scuderia and the 360 Challenge Stradale before that, a hardcore version of the 599 GTB could get an uprated V-12 engine, several weight-saving modifications and a host of aerodynamic aids.

Later reports indicate that such a car is in the works and could even go by the name 599 GTO in honor of the legendary 250 GTO from the 1960s. The 599’s venerable 6.0-liter V-12 is expected to be pumped up to between 680 and 700 horsepower, and this is to be accompanied by an extensive weight-saving program shedding up to 150 pounds from the car’s kerb weight.

Visually, the car will look similar to the Laboratorio Technologico 599XX pictured about but not quite as extreme. Some of the aerodynamic aids from the concept car, such as the new winglets on the rear buttresses and F1-derived ‘doughnuts’ covering the wheels, could carry over into production, however.

Production will almost certainly be limited, with numbers likely to hover around the 500 mark, and the most likely reveal date will be the 2010 Geneva Motor Show next March.

Source: motorauthority.com

Raikkonen to take a break from F1

2009-11-18T02:50:00.000-08:00

HELSINKI - Outgoing Ferrari star Kimi Raikkonen will take next season off from Formula One as he could not get a deal with McLaren, his manager Steve Robertson was quoted as saying in the Finnish media.

"The choices in Formula One for the next season were McLaren or nothing. Kimi and McLaren could not reach an agreement so he will not drive on Formula One level for at least next season," Robertson said in an interview with the Turun Sanomat newspaper.

He said they were not negotiating with other Formula One teams and added that the 29-year-old Finn will now concentrate on other areas and could be compete in some rally next season.

Robertson did not rule out Raikkonen returning to Formula One after a year off if a suitable team was found.

"Kimi is still full of the will to drive. A gap year will not mean anything in that respect. It means more that we can find a place for Kimi where he can compete to win and (compete) for the world championship," he said.

Ferrari decided to part company with Raikkonen in September and Fernando Alonso will take his position.

But Robertson insisted that Raikkonen, who won the world championship for Ferrari in 2007, remained one of the best drivers in the world.

Source: inquirer.net

Schumacher to quit Ferrari F1 role for Mercedes GP seat?

2009-11-17T06:21:00.000-08:00

Reports are suggesting that record-breaking multiple world champion Michael Schumacher is to relinquish his F1 duties at Ferrari - possibly, it has been speculated, for one final fling with the newly-renamed Mercedes Grand Prix.

According to reports in the media, Michael Schumacher's recently-renewed contract with Ferrari may not include any F1 duties – leading to wild speculation that the legendary record-breaking multiple world champion could be the 'surprise' to whom Norbert Haug refers in the new Mercedes Grand Prix driver line-up.

Spanish newspaper Diario AS claims that the new deal Schumacher inked with Ferrari back in September – due to run until the end of 2012 – will focus primarily on the Scuderia's road car development, with the German relinquishing his advisory role on the F1 side.

That, allied to Mercedes-Benz Motorsport Vice-President Haug's enigmatic declaration that there could be some 'surprises' in the driver line-up of the newly-rebranded Mercedes Grand Prix outfit in 2010 – what was in 2009 Brawn GP – has prompted some to wonder whether Schumacher could be the mystery driver to join ex-Williams F1 ace Nico Rosberg in an all-German, Silver Arrows 'super team' next year.

Though now into his fifth decade and with nothing left to prove, the man from Kerpen has repeatedly admitted that his test outing ahead of his ultimately abortive comeback in-place of the injured Felipe Massa earlier in the summer has whetted his appetite for a return to active competition after three years out of the cockpit.

With Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo's desire for third cars to be legalised in 2010 looking unlikely in the extreme – and with Schumacher having effectively sprung to prominence with Mercedes in sportscars back at the turn of the 1990s – is there time for one last chapter to be written in the incredible career of the seven-time F1 World Champion, with a return full circle from Maranello to Stuttgart for one final fling..?

Source: crash.net

Rossi to test Ferrari F1 in January

2009-11-16T04:03:00.000-08:00

Ferrari has granted Valentino Rossi's wish by offering the MotoGP rider another Formula One test.

After successfully defending his latest two-wheeled title last month, the 30-year-old asked Ferrari team boss Stefano Domenicali for a favour.

"I have already asked Domenicali via text if I can have another test," he said.

Italy's La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Ferrari's answer was 'yes', and that the test will take place in January.

Source: motorsport.com

Alonso Makes First Public Ferrari Appearance

2009-11-15T14:08:00.000-08:00

LONDON (Reuters) - Twice Formula One world champion Fernando Alonso made his first public appearance with his new Ferrari team at an event in Valencia, Spain on Sunday.

The 28-year-old, who begins a three-year deal with the Italian team in January when his Renault contract expires, appeared with new team mate Felipe Massa and president Luca di Montezemolo.

"It is a very important day to me, a very happy one, the first day I could enjoy all the atmosphere and all of what the Ferrari world means," the Spaniard, who finished ninth in this season's drivers' standings, said in a public address.

Massa, who finished 11th in a season ended by his horrific crash in Hungary last July, welcomed Alonso's arrival as Ferrari look to compete with new champion Jenson Button and BrawnGP.

He said: "It is already a great feeling to have the whole team together...I hope we are going to have the best team in 2010. The first impression was really good."

The 2010 season starts with the Bahrain Grand Prix in March.

Source: nytimes.com

Ferrari Considering Turbocharged Engines

2009-11-11T04:33:00.000-08:00

It won't power appear in the new 458 Italia or even the FXX experimental car but a turbocharged engine might power one of the next-generation cars from Ferrari.

The Italian automaker has ruled out nothing in terms of technology as it works to keep high-performance a priority while accommodating strict emissions rules, and turbocharging is one such technology that has been successful in the past.

The only problem is turbo-lag, according to Ferrari engine developer Jean-Jacques His.

Speaking with Autocar, he said: “Turbocharging will come eventually, but we need to solve the issue of turbo lag.” He went on to explain that a delay of any sort before the power arrived was unacceptable for a Ferrari engine.

Earlier this year we saw leaked patent sketches of a V-8 powertrain with a twin-turbocharger arrangement. Rather than a large single turbo, the engine in the patent goes the BMW-route of two smaller turbochargers in order to reduce lag and provide an even power band.

Already the automaker has begun to employ some small technological tools to keep power up while reducing fuel consumption. The recently released California uses the company's first direct-injection engine, for example. Other developments include more dual-clutch transmission applications and an advanced hybrid all-wheel drive system.

Source: motorauthority.com

Ferrari to produce its first hybrid?

2009-11-11T04:24:00.000-08:00

Ferrari will come out with its first hybrid system on the upcoming replacement for its 612 Scaglietti grand touring car. Britain's Autocar magazine quoted unnamed Ferrari sources confirming that the Italian exotic car company is working on a hybrid system that will see electric power going to the front wheels, giving the car all-wheel-drive capability. The system reportedly won't become available before 2014.

Although Ferrari has not officially confirmed the report on the magazine's site, Ferrari CEO Amadeo Felisa confirmed at the most recent Frankfurt Auto show that the first Ferrari hybrid was “likely to be” a V12 model.

Spy shots have since appeared suggesting that the 612's replacement will be the next all-new V12 car from the home of the Prancing Horse. The hybrid system would not be available at that car's launch, but debut closer to the 2015 model year, said the latest report, released last week.

The current 612 offers a massive 5.7-litre V12 engine driving the rear wheels, but this hybrid system would focus more on improving handling and acceleration than fuel economy, according to the company insiders.

But Ferrari is nevertheless interested in reducing fuel consumption and lowering the emissions produced by its products, even though they and exotic car fans in general have long maintained that the limited numbers of these cars sold and the relatively low mileage they accumulate account for a tiny blip in the overall carbon footprint of the global auto industry.

Felisa confirmed that Ferrari's new-for-2009 California hardtop convertible would receive a start-stop system in 2010, which automatically turns off the engine at red lights and restarts it instantly upon letting go of the brakes, which is the system that accounts for the majority of real world fuel savings in most gas-electric hybrid vehicles.

Ferrari is not the only Italian car maker going the planet-friendlier route, while still maintaining its focus on high horsepower performance. Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann also admitted in August that the Volkswagen-controlled company will launch a hybrid model by 2015, likely in the Gallardo, he suggested to a German auto trade journal in August. Winkelmann said Lamborghini was not planning to go the all-electric route, which Mercedes-Benz will pioneer among supercars with its upcoming SLS eDrive, and which Lambo's sister company Audi has recently confirmed it will pursue with an all-electric version of its mid-engine R8.

Source: theglobeandmail.com

Acer Ferrari One In January

2009-11-10T04:07:00.000-08:00

You may be jealous of the folks over in the UK who already have Acer’s Ferrari One laptop, but the good news is that the netbook should be hitting the US market in January, just 2 months away. It’ll feature AMD’s Athlon X2 L310 processor, featuring 2 cores at 1.2GHz, and also the ATI Radeon 3200 integrated graphics chip. It also features support for ATI’s XGP technology, where you can connect to an external graphics device, but it remains to be seen how well that’s implemented. Will this be the netbook that’s powerful enough to game?

Source: ubergizmo.com