Official Press Release
FXX program was extended for two more years thanks to a new evolution kit developed with the assistance of Client Test-Drivers
Maranello October 28, 2007 - The innovative FXX program, based on the eponymous prototype car and launched by Ferrari in June 2005, was extended to 2008/2009. The FXX, which is the most advanced GT ever created at Maranello, has been updated with an evolution package aimed at improving the quality and further handling and performance. This package was developed as a result of Ferrari's collaboration with the Client Test Drivers and with the invaluable support of Michael Schumacher. The FXXs equipped with this package will also sport a new livery in addition to new rear wing profiles.
The FXX is not homologated for road use and there are no plans to compete with the best. In fact, the FXX prototype is designed exclusively for track driving as part of specific R & D program agreed with a selected group of just over 20 clients involving 14 group test sessions and 14 private that in the last two years.
Thanks to readings taken over 16,500 miles test done in 2006 and covered 18,500 kilometers in 2007, modifications made to the car have focused on refining the aerodynamics, running gear and electronics. Seven-times Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher also joined the line of the client test drivers and gave the program benefits from extensive experience on several occasions.
Maranello's engineers studied the wealth of information obtained to develop a kit which will cut the FXX's Fiorano lap time to under 1'16''(previously it was 1'18''). The FXX's 6262 cc V12 engine can now punch out a massive 860 hp at 9500 rpm. Gearshifting took only 60 ms, down from 20 ms at the previous time, and the ratio of teeth have been adjusted to take advantage of the additional 1000 rpm now delivered by the engine.
Car new traction control system, developed in close collaboration with the GES Racing Division engineers, gives the driver a choice of no less than nine different settings (plus the off position) is selected using the button on the center tunnel. This means that the driver really can modify the behavior of the car on the track from end to end, just like Formula 1 drivers do to maximize performance and reduce tire wear. The FXX's traction control is also now less invasive and more flexible, adapting more efficiently to the individual driver's driving style - current conditions point to a very extreme car was being driven on the track by non-professional drivers.
FXX special 19 "Bridgestone tires now last longer too thanks to a new car setup and new front suspension geometry, while the Brembo brakes that boast large Composite Ceramic Material (CCM) discs, more efficient with the result that the brake pads last twice as long .
Thanks to the feedback the Ferrari engineers have also developed through the aerodynamics of new solutions aimed at improving the downforce on the rear axle. The FXX now sports a new rear diffuser, and rear flaps which nolder have combined to increase aerodynamic efficiency by 25% as a whole. The active front spoiler control system settings have been adjusted to account for this change as well.
New telemetry monitoring steering angle and brake pump pressure will further increase the interaction between Client test drivers and engineers company. Next year onwards, it will be possible for drivers to have two extra video cameras mounted on their car in addition the existing rear facing one. This will, of course, give the drivers rear visibility is very good without violating any way the cars aerodynamics.
FXX evolution package includes participation in a series of track events that Ferrari in organizing international circuits for 2008/2009. Six events are planned for each year (two in North America, two in Europe and two in Asia). In addition, the FXXs also will participate, according to tradition, at the prestigious end-of-season Ferrari World Finals.
As happened in 2006/2007, the cars will be supported at each event with a 15-member official team made up of engineers, electronics experts and mechanics capable of providing complete assistance to clients. Needless to say, the latter will still be able to manage their own private individual track sessions in their car, too.
[source:Ferrari]
