Powerful Elegance - a New DefinitionWith
the new Gallardo LP560-4, Lamborghini once again sets a higher standard
for super sports cars. With its new engine, permanent four-wheel drive
transmission and new suspension, it delivers clearly improved
performance and dynamics. In parallel, its innovative design takes the
classic lines unique to the Lamborghini brand one step further. Powerful
elegance has never been so defined before.
The Gallardo LP560-4
is the successor of the most successful Lamborghini model of all time.
Approximately 7100 Gallardo models have left the Sant'Agata Bolognese
production plant since its launch in 2003. 'The LP560-4 will consolidate
this success story,' states Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of
Automobili Lamborghini. 'It will outclass its predecessor in every
aspect; its dynamics are distinctly breathtaking and its design sets new
standards. With the introduction of the Gallardo LP560-4, we will
consistently continue Lamborghini's growth strategy'.
The
powerful heart of the Gallardo LP560-4 is the new 5.2 litre V10 engine
with an output of 560 PS (412 kW) at 8000 rpm. The increase of 40 PS
compared with that of the previous Gallardo, and the approximate 20
kilogram reduction in weight, improves the power weight ratio to 2.5
kilograms per PS (hp) and thus enhances performance. The LP560-4
accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, its speed at 11.8 seconds is
200 km/h and its top speed lies at 325 km/h. At the same time the new,
highly efficient engine enthrals its driver with its direct fuel
injection system - 'Iniezione Diretta Stratificata'. Despite its clearly
increased power, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced
by a staggering 18 per cent.
The engineers in the
Sant'Agata-based Technical Department have also improved traction,
handling and stability at high speeds. The redesigned four-wheel drive
transmission, the new suspension and the optimised aerodynamics as well
as the reduced weight and decreased friction between the components, all
contribute to the overall improvements in the vehicle. Thus the
Gallardo LP560-4 presents itself as a cutting edge super sports car also
suitable for the race-track. The car is also surprisingly suited to
long-distance driving and despite its extreme performance capabilities
is easy to control whilst maintaining utmost stability.
The Style - Powerful EleganceA
Lamborghini is and always will be a highly efficient athlete. Its
extreme sensuality is based upon precision, performance and on
spontaneous action. A Lamborghini's elegance is that of stark, purist
strength. This DNA of the Lamborghini brand is being continuously
developed by the Centro Stile in every new car. Thus the Gallardo
LP560-4 displays the precise lines and clean surface edges in its
distinctly minimalist design. Ornaments or embellishments of any form
are alien to it.
Evolution of form systematically follows the
demands of function: the newly designed front of the LP 560-4 squats
deeply to the ground which contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency.
The enlarged and clearly accentuated cooling intakes meet the demands of
augmented engine power thus increasing the air circulation vital to a
vehicle as powerful as this. The spoiler, positioned low between the air
intakes, improves aerodynamic equilibrium at high speeds.
Characteristic LED - Daytime Running LightThe
new headlights have a characteristic 'daytime' running light integrated
beneath the Bi-Xenon lamps: 15 diodes (LED) have been positioned in a Y
structure. The same motif appears again in the rear tail-lights. The
stop and brake lights have been inspired by the Miura Concept, the
Murciélago LP640 and the Reventón and display the Y form three times
over.
The completely redesigned rear gives the definition
'powerful elegance' a new meaning: rear lights, air cooling vents,
bumper and diffuser are arranged in precise positions on the car's
exterior, which make the LP560-4 appear extremely wide and bonded to the
road surface. In addition, the streamlined covers left and right of the
engine hood accentuate the powerful shoulders and lengthened, stretched
lines of the new Gallardo.
Clearly Improved AerodynamicsThe
rear diffuser has been newly designed, is more efficient with respect
to its predecessor and, together with the smooth underbody, contributes
to the excellent steering stability even at extremely high speeds. In
sum, the aerodynamic efficiency with regard to output compared to that
of its predecessor has been increased by 31 %. The Gallardo LP560-4
takes fast curves even more supremely.
The designers in
Sant'Agata Bolognese have excelled themselves with the clear-cut, pure,
stark lines of the Gallardo LP 560-4. They also have demonstrated
distinct attention to detail; the elaborate aluminium cap for petrol and
motor oil are testimony to this, as is the rear camera which has been
integrated in a small fin in the independent rear spoiler as well as the
finely-crafted grille in the exhaust pipes.
The bodyWeight
is undesirable in a sports car and a lightweight model encourages the
dynamics of such a vehicle. Aluminium is much lighter than sheet steel
and this is why the Gallardo LP560-4 is produced with a body in a much
lighter but nevertheless more stiff structure: the two-seater car
measures 4.34 metres in length, 1.90 metres in width and a mere 1.16
metres in height. It weighs in dry at 1410 kilograms - which is,
effectively, 20 kilograms less that that of the previous Gallardo.
The
construction of the Gallardo LP560-4 utilises what is known as a
'spaceframe construction method'. Integrally moulded node elements and
extruded parts create its frame, and sheet metal plates made out of
aluminium have been neatly and securely integrated to form the body. The
body is not only extremely light but also torsionally stiff and
displays the highest safety characteristics. Thus the basis for the
extraordinary handling characteristics of the LP560-4 is formed.
Integrated Pedestrian Protection SystemThe
body of the car also demonstrates extremely high levels of 'passive
security'. The Gallardo LP560-4 fulfils the not yet obligatory European
directives regarding the protection of pedestrians. Furthermore, the
geometry of the entire front of the car has been optimised with the
addition of a special combination of materials behind the front bumper
which serve to absorb any impact energy.
The Interior - Luxurious individualityDespite
its low exterior height, the Gallardo LP560-4 welcomes its passengers
with a spacious interior. The sports seats are covered with either fine
leather or Alcantara® (upon request) and provide secure adherence and
support. The position of the seats is very low, typical for sportscars.
There is space behind the seats for luggage which complements the 110
litre front trunk.
The wide middle console is one of the elements
which characterizes the impression of sporty dynamism in the interior.
It accommodates the standard Lamborghini multimedia system as well as
the air conditioning which can be regulated on both the driver's and
passenger's sides. Between both of these elements lies a newly designed
module consisting of classically elegant flip switches. Seven round
instruments in the cockpit with a new graphic provide the driver with
essential engine data and a multifunctional display between the
speedometer and revolution counter provides the driver with important
information.
Workmanship of the Highest QualityThe
Miura and the other models of the 60s were already characterized by the
excellent quality of workmanship which lay far and above the general
standards of that time. Lamborghini has continued this tradition and
even today delivers automobiles of the highest standards. The Gallardo
LP560-4 indulges with the highest quality, aesthetically pleasing
materials. With regard to the leather interior, an array of different
colours and stitching (also in contrasting colours) are available. As an
optional, Lamborghini can deliver the Gallardo LP560-4 with a further
choice of leather and Alcantara® interiors as well as Carbon Fibre
Packages. Here, elements such as the air-conditioning surrounds, the
control panel, the handbrake handle and the gear-stick surrounds are
available in carbon fibre.
Furthermore, the individualisation
program, Ad Personam, enables the customer to create any combination of
colour and trim, thus creating a highly personalised vehicle. After all,
the new Lamborghini should perfectly reflect the owner's lifestyle.
The Engine - Extreme Power in Every SituationThe
engine of the Gallardo LP560-4 is a completely new development. All
that remains of the original V10 is the number of cylinders which, in
this performance category, create a perfect and unique synthesis of
torque, force of movement, sporty nimbleness, compact size and low
weight.
The engine has a 5204 cm3 volumetric displacement which, with
8.000 rpm creates the extreme 560 PS (412 kW). This results in the
excellent performance per litre of 107.6 PS/lt. At maximum torque
output, the engine yields 540 Newtonmeter at 6.500 rpm. The ample torque
curve guarantees outstanding thrust from every engine speed. With an
acceleration of 3.7 seconds from 0-100 km/h and a maximum speed of 325
km/h, the Gallardo LP560-4 shoots into the orbit of the most extreme and
powerful sports cars.
Despite the clearly improved driving
performance of this super sports car, Sant'Agata's engineers were
nevertheless able to achieve a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2
emissions by 18 per cent. Measured by engine power and performance, the
Gallardo LP560-4 e-gear's average fuel consumption of 13.7 litres per
100 kilometers, is extremely low.
Perfect Weight Distribution, Class-Leading DynamicsThe
engine in this new model lies lengthways in front of the rear axle -
hence the model description Longitudinale Posteriore. The concept of the
mid - rear engine is unbeatable in sports car production, with the
centre of gravity being displaced next to the vertical axis, thus
creating the car's exceptional dynamics. Furthermore, it creates the
basis for the Gallardo LP560-4's perfect weight distribution with 43 per
cent on the front axle and 57 per cent on the rear. In combination with
the permanent four-wheel drive transmission, superior driving stability
and road adherence are guaranteed in all situations.
Reduced Weight for Inspirational TorqueThe
crank case of the new ten cylinder of Lamborghini Gallardo is produced
with an aluminium alloy. Separate cylinder liners are not necessary with
this technology: instead, the liners, due to their exposure to the hard
silicone crystals during the production phase, are bored directly out
of the material. The connecting rods are made out of wrought steel and
the pistons are produced from an aluminium alloy. The consequent
reduction in weight, inertia and in friction losses contributes to the
car's inspirational torque.
The engine is unusually wide for a
V10, with a cylinder angle of 90 degrees. A definite advantage of this
construction is the low centre of gravity. The reduction of the gravity
centre height comes also from the dry sump layout of the lubrication
system which also guarantees the reliability of the oil supply even
during lateral acceleration and on the race-track.
Direct Fuel Injection Improves Efficient CombustionThe
new V10 uses the direct fuel-injection system 'Iniezione Diretta
Stratificata' as an innovative way to optimize performance results in
part-load conditions. Here, the fuel is injected directly into the
combustion chamber through the laterally positioned injector. Combined
with the use of a 'tumble flap' in the intake manifold runners, this
solution guarantees an optimized distribution of the gasoline in the
combustion chamber (higher gasoline density around the spark plug,
leaner mixture close to piston and cylinder liners) and delivers the
basis for a highly efficient combustion system even with stoichiometric
mean mixture composition. The direct injection boosts the extremely
efficient 'full load' performance of the V10, reduces its knock
sensitivity and thus enables the very high compression ratio of 12.5:1.
The cylinder heads have been optimised to deliver a very quick gas
exchange and the variable valve control system on all four camshafts
improves the charge efficiency across the entire engine speed range.
Transmission - Superior Control Four-Wheel DriveSuch
extreme power must be brought onto the streets with extreme
reliability. The driver of a Gallardo LP560-4 can thus rely on the
four-wheel drive Viscous Traction (VT) system, with the '4' in the model
name a reminder of this. Lamborghini already introduced this system
with the Diablo VT in 1993 - and for good reason: four actuated wheels
achieve more grip than two and permit acceleration earlier in the curve
exit.
The protagonist in the transmission is the central
viscous-coupling which requires no electronic control. In this special
Lamborghini configuration, the driving torque is distributed between
front and rear - generally with a 30:70 front to rear ratio and, within
milliseconds, adapts to even the slightest variations in road
conditions. A mechanical differential on the rear axle provides up to
45% limited slip and an electronic differential lock at the front
complete the four-wheel drive system.
Superior Traction and HandlingNot
only does the maximum traction take advantage of the permanent
four-wheel drive system, but also the car's clearly superior handling.
Each wheel can only transfer a certain amount of torque to the road. As
the propulsion power is distributed onto all four wheels through the
viscous traction system, more potential for directional control remains -
and reserves in every situation distinguish a perfectly made sports
car.
Despite all the engine thrust, changing gears in the
Gallardo LP560-4 is one of the most exciting experiences of driving this
vehicle. It is still the customer's personal preference as to whether
he wishes to change gears manually through the exact 'gate' guides of
the six-speed gearbox via the short gear stick, or whether he prefers to
let his fingertips control the e.gear's paddle-shift system located
behind the steering wheel: the latter solution becoming the preference
of the majority of Lamborghini customers.
Gear Change Time Reduced By 40%The
automated e-gear transmission has been completely redesigned and
improved in all aspects. The complete system has not only been reduced
in weight, but the time employed to change gears has also been reduced
by 40 per cent in 'CORSA' mode. The driver may choose between five
different driving and changing programs: in addition to the 'normal'
mode, the Gallardo LP560-4 offers a SPORT programm with its even more
rapid gear changing times and increased number of revolutions.
The
CORSA program directs the engine to optimum acceleration. It permits a
greater slip angle and also allows - with maximum safety - the full
dynamism of the LP560-4 to be enjoyed even on a race-track. The 'Thrust
Mode' ensures maximum acceleration from neutral while the angle of the
throttle valve and the clutch are here optimally adjusted to one
another. Finally the Automatic mode: here the engine changes gear in
total independence and permits a particularly comfortable mode of
driving.
The Suspension - High-tech parts with Lamborghini know-howEven
the Gallardo LP560-4's predecessor was one of the world's best super
sports cars with regard to handling, precision and driving stability.
However, the latest model provides an even more intense driving
experience: the new suspension improves the car's handling, its driving
comfort and its directional stability at high speeds.
The
Gallardo LP560-4's space frame is uncompromisingly high tech. Its
technical production was conceived from motor sport technologies. The
double wishbones made out of aluminium with newly designed kinematics,
while the springs and shock absorbers are tightly adjusted for grip.
The
rear axle now has an additional track rod which further improves the
excellent control of this super sports vehicle. Newly developed elements
are the rubber-metal bearings - authentic high-tech parts - which
clearly improve the special Lamborghini driving dynamics with
well-chosen material combinations and cleverly defined assembly.
Extreme Road AdherenceThe
steering rack works with relatively little assisted steering support,
thus bonding the driver closely to the road. This in turn provides him
with an intense experience of power and impulse. The steering has its
own cooling system for the power steering fluid.
Precise,
breathtakingly fast, whilst stable and free from surprises, the Gallardo
LP560-4's dynamics assures a sensuous experience. The LP560-4's tyres
(format 235/35 ZR 19 front and 295/30 ZR 19 rear) appear to bond with
the asphalt. Specially developed Pirelli P-Zero series tyres are fitted:
these have a particularly low roll resistance which also maintains tyre
wear at a minimum without, of course, any reduction in their
performance quality. At a speed of over 120 km/h an independently
extended rear spoiler increases the downforce on the rear axle It acts
in association with the specially formed underbody which directs the
airstream under the car.
Optional Carbon Ceramic Brake systemThe
new braking system acts with brute force. At the front, eight 'Brembo
specialist' cylinder callipers grasp the 365 mm diameter brake discs. At
the rear, four cylinder callipers act on the 356 mm brake discs. In
addition, the new disc ventilation system improves the stability in
extreme situations. Optionally, discs made out of Carbon Ceramic are
offered. At the front the CCB (Carbon Ceramic Brakes) discs measure
380mm in diameter and at the rear 356mm. They deliver much improved
performance at a reduced weight. In total, the CCB braking system is
lighter in weight that, at the wheel, improves driving dynamics and
comfort.
The Interior and TrimWith
the Gallardo LP560-4 Lamborghini provides its customers with a generous
and sporty standard equipment package. Direct from the production line,
a customer will find included in his vehicle passenger and lateral
air-bags; a two-zone air-conditioning system with sun regulation; The
Lamborghini Multimedia System including an USB connector; and sports
seats with an electronically operated backrest. In addition to this, the
interior trim includes fine leather and Bi-Xenon headlights with LED
daytime running light. The car is supplied with new Apollo wheels as
standard.
A large variety of options increases the interior
comfort of the vehicle, including a navigation system and a module for
TV reception, a hands-free Bluetooth® phone set, an anti-theft device
and a rearview camera. A further option is the lifting system control of
the front of the vehicle which, at the touch of a button, is raised to
enable driving over obstacles. The new polished cross wheel rims
'Cordelia' or the black Y-rims 'Callisto' complete the options range.
Finally, the engine hood made from glass creates a showcase for the
heart of the Gallardo LP560-4.
The possibilities and different
combinations available in the Individualisation Program Ad Personam are
almost inexhaustible. Behind this program stands the philosophy that a
super sports car of this nature should, after all, reflect the
personality of its owner by enabling him to completely indulge his
expectations and wishes. As a consequence, extreme exclusivity is the
trademark of Lamborghini's individualisation program. "Think the
Impossible" states the motto. Ad Personam offers a host of options in
order that a customer may give the car an imprint of his own style with
respect to the interior trim and exterior. A new highlight in the
program are the following three exclusive matt colours: Nero Nemesis
(matt black), Bianco Canopus (matt white), Marrone Apus (matt brown).
The new matt colours underline the clearly defined and purist precision
of the Lamborghini design.