Thursday, May 23, 2013
Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570 4 Superleggera V10 5 2 L
2010 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera
The bodyshell: Intelligent lightweight engineering
The model on which the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is based, the Gallardo LP 560-4, is already a prime example of Lamborghini’s lightweight engineering philosophy, with its dry weight of 1410 kilograms (3108.5 lb). Its bodyshell is made from aluminum, with moulded node elements and extruded parts forming an extremely stiff framework into which the aluminum panels are integrated. The spaceframe structure is impact-resistant and forms the basis for the super sportscar’s precise handling.
With its minimal weight and extremely high rigidity, carbon-fiber is the ideal material for a super sportscar. As far back as the 1980s, Lamborghini was already gathering experience in this field with the Countach. Today, some parts of the Murciélago’s structure are made from carbon-fiber. In order to secure this leading position even further, the brand from Sant’Agata Bolognese established a center of excellence for carbon-fiber materials, where specialists are developing components, working with efficient manufacturing technologies.The aircraft manufacturer commands enormous expertise in the field of composite materials. With the new Type 787 Dreamliner, Boeing has developed the world’s first commercial aircraft built entirely from carbon-fibre. Thanks to its superior characteristics, it consumes around 20 percent less fuel than a conventional aeroplane.
The engine: 10.2 seconds from zero to 200 km/h
In the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera, LP stands for “longitudinale posteriore” and refers to the orientation of the V10 engine – which is mounted longitudinally behind the driver, just like every Lamborghini engine. The number 570 refers to the maximum power output in CV, which equates to 419 kW and is available at 8,000 rpm. Equally impressive is the pulling power – the torque curve peaks at 540 Nm (398,3 ft lbs) at 6,500 rpm. The increase of 7 kW (10 CV) is the result of the new dedicated engine management strategy.
The V10 has a displacement of 5204 cm3 and achieves a specific output of 80.5 kW (109.6 CV) per liter. Special features on this long-stroke engine with an aluminum crankcase include dry sump lubrication and a cylinder angle of 90 degrees. Both solutions lower the center of gravity, thus improving the handling dynamics. To ensure an ideal combustion chamber fill, the engine has an adjustable intake manifold and continuous control of the chain-driven camshafts.
Power transmission: Traction without compromise
The Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera comes with the e-gear transmission operated via steering wheel paddles, as standard. The automated system with electronic management shifts through its six gears extremely smoothly and far more quickly than could be achieved by human reflexes.
The e-gear control unit has three operating modes, two of which available in automatic. The “Thrust mode” delivers maximum off-the-line performance and is programmed to manage starting revs of around 5000 rpm with minimal wheel slip.
Every single kilometer in the new Superleggera is utterly thrilling – not least because of the relentless traction in practically every situation. This is largely attributable to the four driven wheels, as indicated by the number 4 in the model name.
The permanent all-wheel drive integrates a central viscous coupling and a 45 percent limited slip differential on the rear axle. In normal circumstances, the power delivered by the V10 is channeled with a ratio of 30:70 to the front and rear axles. The weight distribution of the superlight Gallardo is 43/57 percent front/rear.
In 1993, the Diablo VT was the first Italian super sportscar with an all-wheel drive set-up, and Lamborghini has been steadily consolidating its leadership ever since. In fact, thanks to the car’s superior traction, Lamborghini drivers can accelerate earlier out of a bend than drivers of rear-wheel drive cars.
