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Ferrari FXX Evolution
The innovative FXX programme, based on the eponymous prototype car and
launched by Ferrari in June 2005, is being 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 further improving its handling and
performance. The package was developed as a result of Ferrari's
collaboration with its 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 it either. In fact, the FXX prototype is designed exclusively for
track driving as part of a specific R&D programme agreed with a selected
group of just over 20 clients involving 14 group test sessions and 14
private ones in the last two years. Thanks to readings taken over the
16,500 kilometres of tests carried out in 2006 and the 18,500 kilometres
covered in 2007, the modifications made to the car have focused on honing
its aerodynamics, running gear and electronics. Seven-times Formula 1
World Champion Michael Schumacher also joined the ranks of the client test
drivers and gave the programme the benefit of his vast experience on
several occasions.

Maranello's engineers studied the wealth of information gained 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 m***ive 860 hp at 9500 rpm. Gearshifting takes just 60 ms, a drop of 20
ms on the previous time, and the gear ratios have been adapted to make use
of the extra 1000 rpm now delivered by the engine.

The car's 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) which are
selected using a switch on the central tunnel. This means that the driver
really can modify the car's behaviour on the track from corner to corner,
just as the Formula 1 drivers do to maximise performance and reduce tyre
wear. The FXX's traction control is also now less invasive and more
flexible, adapting more efficiently to the individual driving style of
each driver - a requirement pinpointed when this very extreme car was
being driven on the track by non-professional drivers.

The FXX's special 19" Bridgestone tyres now last longer too thanks to a
new car setup and new front suspension geometry, while the Brembo brakes,
which boast large Composite Ceramic Material (CCM) discs, are more
efficient with the result that the brake pads last twice as long. Thanks
to the drivers' feedback the Ferrari engineers have also developed new
aerodynamic solutions aimed at increasing downforce over the rear axle.
The FXX now sports a new rear diffuser, nolder and rear flaps which have
combined to increase aerodynamic efficiency by 25% overall. The active
front spoiler control system settings have been adjusted to take these
modifications into account too. New telemetry monitoring of the steering
angle and brake pump pressure will further boost the interaction between
Client test drivers and the company's engineers also. From 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 excellent rear visibility without having to
impinge in any way on the car's aerodynamics.

The FXX evolution package includes participation in a series of track
events that Ferrari is organising at 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 to these, the FXXs will also be
participating, as per tradition, in the prestigious end-of-season Ferrari
World Finals.

As happened in 2006/2007, the cars will be backed up at each event by a
15-member official team made up of engineers, electronics experts and
mechanics capable of providing complete ***istance to clients. Needless to
say, the latter will still be able to organise their own private individual
track sessions in their car as well.

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