Ferrari FXX-K Evo

29 October, 2017

J-C Etter

Ferrari presents a new aero package for the FXX-K.

The customers taking part in the FXX-K program will have the option to upgrade their cars with a significant aerodynamic package. After a year of CFD modelling and wind tunnel work, these new elements allow the FXX-K Evo to reach downforce levels equivalent to GTE cars. Downforce is increased by 23% to reach a 75% increase over the Ferrari LaFerrari road car. Figures are 640 kg at 200 km/h and 830 kg at top speed.

The FXX-K Evo integrates a twin-profile fixed rear wing which was developed to work in seamless synergy with the active rear spoiler of the FXX-K whose firmware has been adapted. The twin-profile rear wing is supported by two side fins as well as by a central fin. The latter plays a dual role: firstly it acts as a vertical fin, boosting stability at low yaw angles, and secondly, it supports the action of the three delta (triangular) vortex generators. The vortex generators, on the one hand, clean the flow field striking the wing of the effects of the wake of the hot air flow from the radiators which vents onto the bonnet. On the other, they create a downwash component in the flow which boosts the twin-profile’s downforce capacity. The result is a 10% increase in the downforce developed by the rear system.

The design of the rear bumpers was also modified. The by-pass vent from the rear wheel arch has been enlarged, hollowing out the volume behind the wheels to ensure the wake from the wheels is efficiently channelled. The flow to the rear diffuser is protected and losses are reduced, boosting downforce by 5%.

The significant increase in rear downforce had to be balanced with a review of the air flow at the front of the car. The sides of the front bumper were hollowed out beneath the headlights. This made space for a couple of flicks divided by a vertical turning vane and an additional intake ahead of the front wheels. Ground effect was also boosted by the introduction of vortex generators on the undertray. This capitalised on the accelerations created by the rear system and the front underbody, generating 30% of the extra downforce the car delivers compared to the FXX-K. The FXX-K Evo’s boosted performance also demanded new front brake air intakes which, although no wider to avoid increasing drag, are more efficient thanks to a complete redesign of the intake itself.

The power unit is unaffected. The 6262 cm3 65 degrees V12 puts out 750 Nm at 6500 rpm for a peak power of 860 hp at 9200 rpm. The redline is set at 9400 rpm. The internal combusion engine is assisted by a 190 hp electric motor, bringing system output to 1050 hp and a torque in excess of 900 Nm. The FXX-K Evo is mounted with slick tyres of 285/650 R19 and 345/725 R20.