The Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 is an 818bhp track-only hypercar
Lamborghini Squadra Corse is taking the V12 to the racetrack with the limited-run Essenza SCV12
The track-only Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 isn’t destined for racing, but marks the return of the brand’s V12 to the circuit and follows in the footsteps of the Murcielago R-GT racer. Only 40 examples are set to be produced in total, and first examples have already been delivered ahead of its first track events this month.
Developed by Squadra Corse, the marque’s racing outfit, it’s a bespoke model engineered to be the ultimate expression of the V12, free of the limitations of road-car regulations. Designed by Lamborghini Centro Stile, the division responsible for its current racing cars, it has suitably wild looks, too…
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Unlike its latest track machines, it boasts a naturally-aspirated 6.5-litre twelve cylinder power plant, with an 818bhp output making it Lamborghini’s most powerful V12 yet. This figure puts it 58bhp ahead of the current range-topping Aventador SVJ, and 10bhp above even the supercapacitor-equipped Sián. Peak torque of 614lb ft is produced at 7000rpm, up 83lb ft over the SVJ.
Though the removal of restrictive emissions-related equipment will likely have contributed, the increase in power comes largely thanks to the use of a ram-air intake system, or what Lamborghini calls ‘aerodynamic supercharging’. A form of passive forced induction, the system directs air from dual intakes on the bonnet into a roof-mounted intake, which is then pressurised internally before it’s sent to the intake manifold. A new exhaust system also reduces back pressure for improved performance, developed by German exhaust manufacturer Capristo.
Unlike the road-going V12 models, the SCV12 sends its power to the rear wheels alone, reducing weight and complication. Motorsport transmission manufacturer X-trac was employed for its 6spd gearbox, which sends power to the ground through bespoke Pirelli slicks mounted on staggered 19in and 20in magnesium wheels.
Similar to the setup used in the iconic Ferrari F50, its push rod suspension is mounted directly to the gearbox, using it as a load-bearing structural element in order to reduce weight. The use of a new carbon fibre monocoque also eliminates the need for an internal roll cage while increasing torsional rigidity, reducing weight, increasing interior space and most importantly, complying with FIA prototype safety rules. The result is a weight figure of under 1400kg, giving it an astonishing power-to-weight ratio of 1.6bhp/kg – torsional digits is also up 20 per cent over the race-ready Huracán GT3 EVO.
As it’s not bound by road-car regulations, the SCV12 has been fitted with some rather extreme aerodynamic components. Despite boasting a lower drag coefficient, it achieves higher downforce levels than the brand’s current GT3 racer, producing a colossal 1200kg of downforce at 155mph.
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Dual intakes can be found at the front, designed to draw hot air away from the radiator and send cold air to the roof scoop. Canards and a substantial front splitter and can also be seen at the front, with vertical fins on the side sills designed to direct air for engine and gearbox cooling. At the rear, a large adjustable double-level rear wing is fitted above the kamm-style rear end, a design chosen to reduce drag.
Design is typically Lamborghini inside and out, with subtle fins running over each of the wheels referencing the recent Sian, and trademark ‘Y’ and hexagonal shapes scattered throughout. Though the car pictured comes in a striking Verde Silvans livery, every buyer will be able to choose their very own.
Similar in concept to models such as the Ferrari FXX-K and Aston Martin Vulcan, every buyer will become part of a program, allowing them to drive at some of the world's most prestigious circuits. Owners will be able to store their cars in a new Sant’Agata Bolognese facility, with live webcams offering them a view of their car from a smartphone. An athletic training program will also be on offer, as will driver training from five-time Le Mans winner, Emanuele Pirro and Lamborghini Squadra Corse factory driver Marco Mapelli.
The Essenza SCV12 will be limited to just 40 units, and although pricing is yet to be disclosed, you’re unlikely to receive much change from £2m. First examples were delivered to customers in April and Lamborghini’s first track events kick off this month.
