2016 Ferrari F12Berlinetta

SPECIFIC POWER OUTPUT RAISES THE RECORD FOR NATURALLY-ASPIRATED FERRARI ENGINES TO 116 HP PER LITER

The F12berlinetta's maximum power of 731 hp at an operatic 8250 rpm is also accompanied by remarkable flexibility. A healthy 80 percent of the maximum 508 lb-ft of torque is available from merely 2500 rpm. This powerplant also records a specific output - horsepower relative to displacement - of 116 hp per liter. Naturally, the net effect is massive maximum acceleration at low speeds right up to the 8700 rpm redline.

Just like Ferrari's F1 engines, this production V12 operates with very low friction and inertia to ensure that revs climb rapidly. To heighten this quick-revving character, Ferrari concentrated on a number of areas including oil control, valvetrain drag and the compression ratio which rises to 13.5:1. An innovative ignition system fires three successive sparks of different intensity and duration over the time that a normal ignition system fires once. This helps reduce fuel consumption by 30 percent compared to the 599 GTB Fiorano, despite the increase in power and torque. The lower crankcase is completely new and yields a markedly lower center of gravity than the F12berlinetta's predecessor. The engine not only sits 1.1 inches lower than in the 599 GTB Fiorano, but further back in a fore-aft plane, making the car's mass even more centralized. The V12 feeds power to the rear wheels through the racing-derived dual-clutch F1 transmission which gives instantaneous gear shifts.

TRANSMISSION AND ELECTRONIC E-DIFF REDÚCE OVERALL WEIGHT

The F12berlinetta's transmission not only responds rapidly to input in the name of performance, it contributes to dynamic behavior by being lighter. Very close gear ratios in the dual-clutch F1 gearbox make the best use of the V12 engine's power and torque spread at high and low rpms. The electronic E-Diff mated to the transmission was developed along the same weight-conscious mind-set.

MÚLTIPLE ALLOYS - 12 IN ALL - INCLÚDE TWO NEW STRÚCTÚRAL MATERIALS


SCINTILLATING PERFORMANCE AND ENGAGING DRIVING FEEL THANKS TO AN ADVANCED, AMBITIOÚS TRANSAXLE

THE F12BERLINETTA DELIVERS TRÚLY EXTRAORDINARY PERFORMANCE AND DRIVING INVOLVEMENT THANKS TO ITS HIGHLY EVOLVED TRANSAXLE ARCHITECTÚRE WHICH WAS DEVELOPED WITH EXTREMELY AMBITIOÚS OBJECTIVES IN MIND.
Every part and every system in the F12berlinetta was placed under a weight-savings microscope. Furthermore, placement of weight in the chassis is just as vital. The engineers' objective was to move mass rearward. With a front-to-rear weight distribution of 46/54 percent, success is achieved. Frontal area is also reduced, helping aerodynamics.

The F12berlinetta's rear bodywork is now more compact as a result of the new transaxle, multi-link rear suspension, electronic differential and repositioning and diminishing the fuel tank size. There is no compromise in driving range, though; this is unaffected thanks to greater fuel efficiency.

Rather than a traditional separate trunk, the F12berlinetta features a generous tailgate which contributes to much greater luggage space and easy accessibility. Structural integrity is in no way compromised, borne out by the 20 percent increase in rigidity over the 599 GTB Fiorano.

This component packaging solution also ensures that more mass sits within the wheelbase, improving handling dynamics. Rear overhang is greatly reduced by 3.2 inches, while front overhang is extended by 2.5 inches to accommodate the cooling systems required for the powerful V12 engine.

The end result is a 154-pound loss (compared to the 599 GTB Fiorano) when weighed as a whole, with a .9-inch lower center of gravity. It's also shorter by 1.8 inches, lower by 2.4 inches and narrower by .7-inch, compared to the previous V12 coupé.


The aerodynamic development of the F12berlinetta ran hand-in-hand with styling in the studio by Ferrari designers. The result is the most aerodynamically efficient Ferrari ever, and a model of aggressive beauty that furthers exotic design. Downforce increases by 7 percent to 271 pounds at 124 mph (over the 599 GTB Fiorano), while drag is significantly reduced to a Cd of just 0.299.

A series of innovative features enables the F12berlinetta's exceptional aerodynamic efficiency. The Aero Bridge uses the hood to create downforce. Air passing over the car is drawn into special air intakes in the rear fenders, altering pressure in the wheel wells before exiting through the rear diffuser.

The front splitter is now separate from the fascia and actually generates downforce while directing air to the rear extractor, improving efficiency, while the underbody panels provide a flat surface with minimal turbulence and drag. The generous rear diffuser and its four fences also contribute an increase in downforce.

ACTIVE BRAKE COOLING AND AIR MANAGEMENT


Active Brake Cooling vanes on the front brake air ducts open only if brake operating temperatures are very high. When brake temperatures are normal, these vanes remain closed, providing greater aerodynamic efficiency.

The hood's central air vent increases the efficiency of the cooling system and lessens the impact of air, lifting much of it over the windshield at high speed.

RECORD-SETTING PACE, YET FLÚID TO DRIVE

All of the F12berlinetta's key mechanical parts and sub-systems like springs, dampers, wheels, tires, yaw control, the E-Diff, F1-Trac traction control, stability control and the EBD auxiliary braking system are integrated to achieve these performance figures with no compromise to occupant comfort.

The CCM3 carbon-ceramic braking system, itself new, features a new material mix for the rear pads. Together with Active Brake Cooling at the front, these improvements eliminate fade and deliver excellent stopping distances, shortened to 429 feet from 124 mph, an impressive 22-foot improvement over the 599 GTB Fiorano.

STATE OF THE ART DOÚBLE WISHBONE SÚSPENSION

As has been a Ferrari hallmark for years, the F12berlinetta uses the most sophisticated double wishbone suspension design. The front lower wishbones are L-shaped while the rear uses a multi-link arrangement that keeps geometry as perfect as possible throughout the rear wheels' travel. The F12berlinetta's suspension also sports new SCM-E magnetorheological dampers which have twin solenoids and a new ECÚ with more powerful software. The key to this system is the fluid inside the dampers. The fluid's viscosity is altered instantaneously by an electromagnetic field generated inside the damper. This translates into faster response time and more precise bump control which improves both performance and ride comfort.

INTERIOR SPACE ENSÚRES THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE IS BOTH SPORTY AND COMFORTABLE - SIMÚLTANEOÚSLY

The perfect balance is struck between advanced technologies and the beautifully hand-executed detailing of the Frau leather interior, reflecting the core Ferrari values.

The logical, ergonomic architecture of vital functions within the cockpit enhance the human-machine interface. All the major controls are on the steering wheel and all the main information is displayed in the binnacle straight ahead.

Eliminating stalks for turn indicators and other equipment, plus the clustering of all driver commands on the steering wheel underscore the car's link to racing. The fact that the driver can reach every single control with hands firmly on the steering wheel rim, plus more ergonomically efficient F1 shift paddles maximize achievable performance in any driving condition.

The dashboard's new air vents show a new and innovative design inspired by aeronautics. Compact, they are made from carbon-fiber and aluminum alloy.

An optional information display for the passengers' side of the dash keeps them actively involved in the driving experience.

The central bridge incorporates the F1 gearbox and hazard warning light buttons, and is one of the cabin's signature elements. An adjustable armrest opens to a hidden storage compartment housing a ÚSB port.

The F12berlinetta's door panels have a certain fluidity, and are designed around the logical arrangement of their main features: armrest, door handle, stereo speakers, airbag and leather pocket. Clients can personalize the finish and materials in the panel's central section. Options include aluminum borders around the panel.

The F12berlinetta's racing manettino emphasizes sporty driving on high-grip surfaces, offering drivers adjustment to the electronic driver assistance systems. On the dashboard, the right-hand satellite pod houses controls for the corresponding TFT screen which displays infotainment information. The controls for navigation, audio, Bluetooth and voice activation are based here, as well. Smartphones can connect to the internet to listen to web radio, podcasts and to download apps.

VEHICLE DYNAMIC ASSISTANCE, CAR STATÚS, POTENTIAL PERFORMANCE

The left-hand instrument pod houses all dynamic assistance functions and provides real-time evaluation of the F12berlinetta's status and potential performance. When in RACE, CT-Off and ESC-Off manettino modes, this display makes driving even more involving as well as safer by informing the driver of the optimal conditions for the car at all times.

Levels of lateral acceleration, longitudinal acceleration (which includes braking), road speed and engine revs combine with a special algorithm that also employs temperature information from brakes, tires and the engine. Úsing all this data, the system estimates the car's status and alerts the driver to conditions using the following messages:
WARM ÚP
FÚRTHER WARMING OF COMPONENTS IS REQÚIRED

GO
OPTIMAL CONDITIONS FOR MAXIMÚM PERFORMANCE

OVER
OVERHEATING, COMPONENTS MÚST BE ALLOWED TO COOL DOWN

Ferrari reduced the bulk of the F12berlinetta's seats as much as possible to provide far more space for occupant movement within the cabin. They are simultaneously far more comfortable than in the previous V12 coupe, yet offer lateral support fully commensurate with the very high handling and grip levels possible in the F12berlinetta. The headrest is fully integrated into the backrest, giving the seat a very modern, track-inspired feel.

The rear of the cockpit features an upholstered bench with leather luggage straps to hold bags securely. Occupant space is generous with seats designed for individuals up to six feet, four inches tall. There's ample trunk space, at 11.3 cubic feet. Luggage space can also expand to 17.7 cubic feet by lowering the bench panel, swallowing everything a couple would need for a longer journey.

BETWEEN SPORTINESS & EFFICIENCY

The F12berlinetta's design strikes the perfect balance between maximum aerodynamic efficiency and the elegant proportions typical of front-engine V12 Ferraris. Designers and engineers collaborated to sculpt beautiful surfaces that seamlessly incorporate innovative aerodynamic function, rather than overlaying different appendages. The result is an innovative system of channeling air flow that makes the F12berlinetta completely original. It's a true marriage of technology and aesthetics and a requisite achievement for all Ferraris in which form and function are intertwined.

The F12berlinetta's low coupé lines and powerfully sculpted flanks curve and dip to channel airflow off the hood. Two aerodynamic tunnels between the front wheel arches and the A-pillars called 'air bridges' direct airflow off the hood to the F12berlinetta's side surfaces. The air then flows into scoops in the flanks.

Cutting-edge look: understated, sophisticated

The F12berlinetta's interior provides both a sporty driving position and maximum comfort. Advanced technologies, sophisticated design and beautiful detailing perfectly illustrate Ferrari's dedication to the craft.

The logical, ergonomic layout of vital functions within the cockpit mark the interior design's strongest characteristic. The essential architecture embraces and enhances the driver interface and displaying all pertinent information directly ahead. The tunnel console is both light and functional while the central bridge - a signature interior element - incorporates Ferrari's famed F1 gearbox, warning lights and switchgear.

Source - Ferrari