Ferrari unveils HY-KERS hybrid tech at Geneva

A hybrid Ferrari?! Yeah, well, it had to happen...

At the currently ongoing Geneva Motor Show, Ferrari has unveiled a new experimental vehicle based on the 599 GTB Fiorano, which is equipped with an advanced new hybrid powertrain. Hybrid technology is one of the solutions examined by Ferrari in its on-going research and development into making its production cars more efficient. Experimenting with alternative technologies is a part of the company’s long-term strategy, after the announcement in 2007 of a five-year plan to reduce fuel consumption and emissions across the range.

The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano experimental vehicle has been designed so that its handling, chassis dynamics, braking abilities and overall performance as a supercar remain unaffected by the added weight and complexity of the hybrid powertrain. While driving in the city, the car’s HY-KERS hybrid system can also function as a full-electric drivetrain, which results in a direct reduction in fuel consumption and emissions.

Weighing about 40kg, the compact, tri-phase, high-voltage electric motor of the HY-KERS is coupled to the car’s dual-clutch seven-speed F1 transmission. Power is coupled seamlessly and instantaneously between the 100bhp electric motor and the 6.0-litre, 612-horsepower V12 engine. Under braking the electric drive unit acts as a generator, using the kinetic energy from the negative torque generated to recharge the batteries. The module also powers the engine’s ancillaries (power steering, power-assisted brakes, air conditioning, on-board systems) via a generator mounted on the V12 engine when running 100 per cent under electric drive.

According to Ferrari, this HY-KERS hybrid drivetrain technology may someday be fitted to all its road cars.