Ferrari announced at the Geneva Auto Show that it wants to offer a hybrid version of each model within three to four years, closely following the announcement of Ferrari’s unveiling of its first hybrid model, the 599 GTB Fiorano hybrid coupe. Now Ferrari has released an informational video that explains the HY-KERS system in detail.
Ferrari chairman, Luca di Montezemolo, announced during a press presentation at the Geneva Motor Show that Ferrari has begun its move towards offering a complete lineup of hybrid high-performance sports cars. Now Ferrari has put together a very informative video that shows you exactly how its ‘hybrid’ system works.
“This is the first step of a long project and we want within three years, maximum four, to have a hybrid Ferrari car ready for every single product of our range. This is our goal, ” said Montezemolo.
(More after video)
Among the facts presented in the video is Ferrari’s assertion that the HY-KERS system will not result in a loss of handling. The term ‘hybrid’ is so strongly associated with eco-friendliness and slow vehicles that when automakers announce their intention to create a performance hybrid, many people cringe. Ferrari is doing its part to show that in some cases a hybrid drivetrain can actually improve performance and fuel economy, without hurting handling or driving characteristics.
The first tangible step in Ferrari’s walk towards offering more eco-friendly models comes in the form of a satin finish, lime green 599 GTB Fiorano. This model makes use of a unique hybrid system, which Ferrari is calling HY-KERS, referring to the hybrid use of a traditional combustion engine and a KERS device, which stands for Kinetic Energy Recuperation System.
At the heart of the HY-KERS is an electric motor weighing in at 88 pounds. Attached to the rear of the 599’s seven-speed F1 transmission, power from the electric motor is applied seamlessly via either of the gearbox’s two clutches. The electric motor is good for another 100 horsepower over the V12’s standard output – meaning that Ferrari is able to maintain the power-to-weight ratio of the standard Ferrari, resulting in no sacrifice.
Electric power is stored in a lithium-ion battery pack, mounted low in the 599’s chassis to keep the car’s center of gravity low. A regenerative brake system recharges the on board batteries, with an engine-mounted generator taking care of ancillary duties, such as power steering, power-assisted brakes and air conditioning.
Ferrari hasn’t disclosed the typical performance specs associated with sports cars, but it did disclose that the KY-KERS 599 GTB Fiorano has 35 percent reduced emissions compared to the standard model. This reduction in green house gas emissions is perfectly in line with Montezemolo’s statement, “In three years we aim to cut emissions by a minimum of 35 percent.”
Given the relatively short development plan for what is a relatively radical departure from traditional Ferrari design, the three year goal is quite aggressive.
