The Lamborghini Sesto Elemento, Lamborghini's carbon fibre technology demonstrator was unveiled at the 2010 Paris Auto Show this month, Lamborghini's carbon fibre technology demonstrator. The car is based around a carbon fibre monocoque passenger cell manufactured in a one-shot process. Connected to the monocoque are the front subframe (incorporating the suspension points) and the crash boxes, both also made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP). The rear subframe, with the engine mount and rear axle suspension points, is made from aluminium.
“It is our abilities in carbon-fiber technology that have facilitated such a forward-thinking concept cars and we of course also benefit from the undisputed lightweight expertise of Audi AG. Systematic lightweight engineering is crucial for future super sports cars: for the most dynamic performance, as well as for low emissions. We will apply this technological advantage right across our model range. Every future Lamborghini will be touched by the spirit of the Sesto Elemento,” said Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini.
The show car is powered by a 562bhp version of the V10 used in the current Gallardo. But thanks to the widespread use of carbon fibre, the concept tips the scales at only 999kg. Lamborghini claims the Sesto Elemento will sprint from 0-62mph in 2.5 seconds and on to a top speed of more than 200mph.
The Sesto Elemento has a power-weight ratio of 1.75 kg/hp. It reaches 100 km/hr in just 2.5 seconds and has a top speed of “well over 300 km/hr”. It’s exactly the kind of supercar innovation that Lamborghini should be investing in and while carbon fibre has become famous, the company has also experimented with other modern materials, such as Pyrosic for the exhaust system (a new glass and ceramic composite material).
The Lamborghini Advanced Composite Structures Laboratory (ACSL) at the University of Washington in Seattle, USA, uses experimental tests to define the mechanical behaviour of the different materials and technologies using methodology from the aviation industry.
The design is inspired by the limited-edition Reventòn supercar, but makes more of a feature of its deep front end, while the V10 is open to the elements. The Concept Car - Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Sport Cars Concept isn’t road legal, but it is a running prototype, so testing Lamborghini’s claims is a possibility.
Winkelmann added: 'This car shows how the future of the super sports car can look – lightweight engineering, combined with incredible performance, results in extreme driving fun.' Until now, Lamborghini has only used carbon fibre sparingly. However, the Sesto Elemento is made almost entirely from it.
Concept Car - Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Sport Cars Concept