Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante
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18th November, 2010
With the new Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante, Lamborghini is
setting a new benchmark in one of the most fascinating automobile segment of all - the open-top super sports car.
As 'Performante', the Gallardo Spyder is even lighter thanks to CFRP technology, even more agile and even more
dynamic. The new Spyder Performante is an automotive high-performance 'athlete' that combines sheer sporting
excellence and extreme performance with that unique open-air feeling that only a soft-top spanning the
ten-cylinder power unit can offer. Ultimately, every spin in the Spyder Performante is like a journey into the eye
of the storm.
The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder is already at the peak of its game, bearing testament to the lightweight
engineering approach pursued by the Lamborghini brand. Nevertheless, the engineers in Sant'Agata Bolognese managed
to reduce the weight of the new Spyder Performante by a further 65 kilogrammes (143 lbs). The open super sports car
tips the scales with a dry weight of no more than 1.485 kilogrammes (3.274 lbs) - a new best for that highly
exclusive market segment occupied by Lamborghini.
Just like its 'brother', the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera, the light weight of the Spyder Performante is due in
large part to exterior and interior components made from carbon-fibre. These carbon-composite materials are
perfectly suited to super sports cars because they combine reduced weight with improved technical characteristics.
Performance is optimised as a result of lower weight, while CO2 emissions are reduced. Lamborghini has been leading
the industry for 30 years in the application of CFRP, and now the brand is expanding that lead even further.
The V10 power unit with a displacement of 5.2 litres generates 419 kW (570 hp) in the Spyder Performante and
guarantees breathtaking performance - it catapults the open-top LP 570-4 from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in a mere
3.9 seconds and keeps on going to a top speed of 324 km/h (201 mph). The engine with 'Iniezione Diretta
Stratificata' petrol direct injection boasts extremely impressive pulling power and a virtually endless rev range
that delivers a constant supply of spine-tingling acoustics.
The Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante is an uncompromising driving machine. Its chassis, with its mighty
brakes, is a work of great precision, while the new 19-inch wheels with Pirelli P Zero Corsa sports tyres are
extremely lightweight. The LP 570-4 Performante brings a new meaning to the term "Spyder".
Design and aerodynamics: The beauty of power
The elegance of every Lamborghini rests on its extreme power and precise function. The design of the Gallardo
LP 570-4 Spyder Performante, too, concentrates on the sheer essence of the design language - the body shell is
pure sculpture and free of superfluous decoration. Its profile follows the contours of a dynamic wedge measuring
4.39 metres long, 1.90 metres wide, but only 1.18 metres high. Open or closed, the top of the Spyder Performante
can handle the very highest speeds.
From the very first glance, the Spyder Performante is clearly recognisable as the open-top counterpart to the
highly acclaimed and successful Gallardo Superleggera. The exterior modifications are all directed at increasing
the aerodynamic effect in comparison to the Gallardo Spyder. Working closely with wind tunnel experts, designers
from Lamborghini's Centro Stile remodelled the front bumper - three-dimensional, deeply recessed elements form
trapezoidal frames for the large air intakes. Together with the V-shaped, sharply defined nose and the LED
daytime running lights, the black elements give the front end a razor-sharp look. The design also optimises the
supply of cooling air and improves the downforce on the front axle.
Modifications to the fully-covered underbody, new sill elements and a redesigned diffuser incorporating four
large tailpipes also help to achieve better aerodynamic results. A large optional rear spoiler is also available
for the Spyder Performante.
The body shell: Intelligent lightweight engineering with Carbon Fibre
Its body shell is made from aluminium, with cast node elements and extruded profile forming an extremely
stiff framework into which the aluminium panels are integrated. The spaceframe structure is extremely
impact-resistant and forms the basis for the super sports car's precise handling.
Against this background, the task of reducing weight by a further 65 kilogrammes (143 lbs) compared to the
Gallardo Spyder presented a huge challenge to the engineers. The Lamborghini experts handled the task as they
usually do - with hi-tech competence and aesthetic flair. With its minimal weight and extremely high stiffness,
carbon-fibre is the ideal material for a super sports car. The large panel covering the soft-top, engine and
transmission is a complex and extremely high-quality carbon fibre component. Engineers also selected
carbon-fibre for the rear spoiler, sills, diffuser, parts of the underbody panelling and the fine exterior
mirror casings.
Carbon-fibre materials in the interior
Altogether, carbon-fibre components make up around 40% of the 65 kilogrammes saved. In the interior, too,
engineers aimed to reduce weight as much as possible. The centre tunnel cover, the door panels and the surround
of the e-gear automated manual transmission lever are made from carbon-fibre. The high-end material is also
used for the sports seats' shells, where they make a significant contribution to overall weight reduction.
Just like the rest of the cockpit, the sports seats are clad in lightweight Alcantara instead of leather.
However, weight reduction at Lamborghini certainly does not mean sacrifice - the Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder
Performante still comes with air conditioning and electric windows as standard.
The extent to which Lamborghini values the very highest level of meticulous craftsmanship is immediately
evident in the interior of the Spyder Performante. All parts are perfectly designed and assembled down to the
very last detail; high-quality materials indulge the senses. The interior retains a sporty black finish in
Alcantara. As contrasting colours for seat stitching, customers can choose from green, yellow, orange and two
shades of grey. They match exterior paint finishes in Giallo Midas, Arancio Borealis, Grigio Telesto, Nero
Noctis and Bianco Monocerus.
The engine: 3.9 seconds from zero to 100 km/h
In the Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante, LP stands for 'Longitudinale Posteriore' and refers to the
orientation of the V10 engine - which is mounted longitudinally behind the driver, just like every
Lamborghini engine. The number 570 refers to the maximum power output in hp, which equates to 419 kW and is
available at 8,000 rpm. Equally impressive is the pulling power - the torque curve peaks at 540 Nm (398,3 ft
lbs) at 6,500 rpm. The increase of 7 kW (10 hp) is the result of the new dedicated engine management
strategy.
The V10 has a displacement of 5,204 cm3 and achieves a specific output of 80.5 kW (109.6 hp) per litre.
Special features on this long-stroke engine with an aluminium crankcase include dry sump lubrication and a
cylinder angle of 90 degrees. Both solutions lower the centre of gravity, thus improving handling dynamics.
To ensure ideal combustion chamber fill, the engine has an adjustable intake manifold and continuous control
of the chain-driven camshafts.
The crankshaft is conceived as a dual-plane crank - the connecting rods of opposing pistons share one
bearing. This configuration delivers alternating ignition intervals of 54 and 90 degrees; a unique sequence
that is the reason for the compelling, racing car-like sound of the V10. As the revs rise, resounding bass
notes are overlaid with razor sharp harmonics.
The powerful V10, combined with the model's weight reduction, gives the Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder
Performante breathtaking performance. The sprint from zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes just 3.9 seconds.
Drive continues relentlessly to a top speed of 324 km/h (201 mph).
Power transmission: Traction without compromise
The Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante comes with the e-gear transmission operated via steering wheel
paddles, as standard. The automated system with electronic management shifts through its six gears
extremely smoothly and far more quickly than could be achieved by human reflexes.
The e-gear control unit has three operating modes, two of which are also available in automatic. The
'Thrust mode' delivers maximum off-the-line performance and is programmed to manage starting revs of
around 5,000 rpm with minimal wheel slip.
Every single kilometre in the Gallardo Spyder Performante is utterly thrilling - not least because of
the relentless traction in practically every situation. This is largely attributable to the four driven
wheels, as indicated by the number 4 in the model name.
The permanent all-wheel drive incorporates a central viscous coupling and a 45 per cent limited slip
differential on the rear axle. In normal circumstances, the power delivered by the V10 is channelled with
a ratio of 30:70 to the front and rear axles. The weight distribution of the super light Gallardo is 43/57
per cent front/rear.
In 1993, the Diablo VT was the first Italian super sports car with an all-wheel drive set-up, and
Lamborghini has been steadily consolidating its leadership ever since. In fact, thanks to the car's
superior traction, Lamborghini drivers can accelerate earlier out of a bend than drivers of rear-wheel
drive cars.
The running gear: Even firmer, even more precise
The Gallardo Spyder Performante is a highly-concentrated driving machine - it thrills with breathtaking
cornering speeds and fast, immediate reflexes. Its handling is always precise, stable and predictable.
The running gear layout is derived directly from motor sport. The suspension features aluminium double
wishbones, while the precise rack-and-pinion steering keeps the driver closely connected with the road.
Its specific set-up enables the running gear to reach its full dynamic potential.
Another special feature of the Gallardo Spyder Performante is the incredibly light 19-inch wheels -
identical to those on the Gallardo Superleggera - which save 13 kilogrammes (28.6 lb). The wheel bearings
and bolts are made from titanium and are also incredibly light and stiff. The tyres are 235/35 at the
front and 295/30 at the rear and come from the Pirelli P Zero Corsa series. Developed specifically for the
new top model in the Gallardo range, they are closely related to pure race rubber.
Behind the huge wheels are brakes that deliver uncompromising stopping power and are managed by the
standard-fit ESP stability control system. The front wheels are served by aluminium eight-piston callipers,
with four-piston units at the rear. The ventilated brake discs have diameters of 365 and 356 millimetres
(ø 14.37 x 1.34 in and 14.02 x 1.26 in) respectively. As an optional extra, Lamborghini can fit extremely
fade-resistant and lightweight discs made from carbon-fibre ceramic with six-piston callipers up front.
The front ceramic discs have a diameter of 380 millimetres (ø 15 x 1.5 in).
Equipment: Hi-tech for road and track
Alongside its specialised carbon-fibre lightweight components, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder
Performante is delivered ex-works with an array of other high-end features. Highlights include the e-gear
transmission - the manual gearbox is available at no additional cost - the dedicated chassis set-up, the
Pirelli P Zero Corsa sports tyres and the sports seats. Alcantara upholstery and a hand-stitched steering
wheel clad in suede set accents in the interior.
The range of special equipment is quite particular. For the interior, Lamborghini offers special floor
mats and leather steering wheels, a storage package and an alarm system. An additional carbon-fibre package
includes centre console and instrument panel trim, the parking brake handle, the lower part of the steering
wheel and the door handles.
Further special equipment enhances comfort and convenience - the multimedia navigation system, the
lifting system for raising the front of the car, a garage door opener and a rear view camera. Customers
wanting to personalise their Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante can refer to the wide-ranging options of
Lamborghini's 'Ad Personam' individualisation programme.
Competence: New development centre for carbon-fibre technology
With this year's presentation of the best-in-class Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera at the Geneva Motor Show
and the unveiling of the ultra-light Sesto Elemento at the Paris Motor Show, Lamborghini has again displayed
its clear leadership in the field of carbon fibre technology. Here, Lamborghini is building on a thirty-year
history - in 1983, Lamborghini used carbon fibre reinforced plastics to build the famous Countach. The
engine cover panel of the Gallardo Spyder and Spyder Performante is one of the largest CFRP components with
class A surface quality in the automotive world. As a 100 per cent subsidiary of AUDI AG, the Italian super
sports car manufacturer further benefits from the lightweight construction competence of its parent
company.
The company is now working steadily to expand its worldwide leading position. In the new Advanced
Composites Research Centre (ACRC) at company headquarters in Sant'Agata Bolognese, Automobili Lamborghini
S.p.A. is working on innovative construction and production methods for carbon-fibre elements in automobile
design.
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The Advanced Composite Research Centre in Sant'Agata Bolognese secures leadership in the research into
innovative materials and production methods for carbon-fibre reinforced plastics with low production
volumes. More than 30 experts work here on the development of vehicle components of all types and sizes.
The specialists build prototypes and their associated tools, and devise optimum production methods. With
sophisticated systems developed largely in-house, engineers can precisely and reliably simulate the
technical characteristics and collision behaviour of the components. Thanks to the extensively patented
'RTM Lambo' process, Lamborghini is able to manufacture CFRP parts to the highest quality, precision and
surface finish under low pressure and at relatively low temperatures. Higher process speeds, lower costs
and simple tooling are further benefits.
The Lamborghini Advanced Composite Structures Laboratory (ACSL) at the University of Washington tests
the behaviour of a range of materials and technologies in line with the principles adopted by the aviation
industry. Scientists in Seattle are working closely with the Technical Development Department at
Lamborghini headquarters in Sant'Agata Bolognese.
At the 2010 Paris Motor Show, Lamborghini once again demonstrated its outstanding expertise in
carbon-fibre lightweight engineering with the Sesto Elemento concept car - the extent of the application
of innovative materials is unparalleled. The overall weight of the Sesto Elemento - despite its V10 power
plant and all-wheel drive - was limited to just 999 kilogrammes. Every new Lamborghini will benefit from
the advanced technologies in the Sesto Elemento.
The myth lives on: The open-top super sports cars from Lamborghini
The history of open-top Lamborghinis began with small volumes. In 1965, the company built just two of
the 350 GTS, the open-top version of the first model to be produced in Sant'Agata Bolognese. Even more
tragic from today's perspective is that only one copy of the exquisite P400 Miura Roadster from 1968 was
ever built. Lamborghini unveiled its first series production open-top in 1976 with the Silhouette - its
V8 mid-engine with 250 hp offered refined performance, while a removable roof delivered that open-top
feeling. Its successor was the Jalpa Speedster, which was launched in 1986. The V8 power unit with a
90-degree cylinder bank angle was once again mounted behind the seats, albeit enlarged to 3.5 litres -
which, with the same output, guaranteed much better torque.
In 1992 it was an open-top Lamborghini that was a feature of the Geneva Motor Show - low-set with a
sharply angled windscreen and an amazingly powerful looking rear-end, the Diablo Roadster cut an
impressive figure on the Lamborghini stand. The series production version came in 1995 - with its 5.7
litre twelve-cylinder and all-wheel drive, it was a true super car. Its output of 492 hp ensured it a
top speed of 323 km/h with the roof open or closed. The rear-wheel drive Diablo SV Roadster followed in
1998. Finally, the Murciélago Roadster made its appearance in 2005 as a super-modern interpretation of
the open-top twelve-cylinder.
The true performer among the open-top Lamborghinis, however, is by far and away the Gallardo Spyder -
at least, when it comes to the number produced. The first generation appeared in 2006, with a
ten-cylinder engine, 520 hp and an electro-hydraulic roof engineered for high-speed driving. The second
generation followed in 2008 - the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder. Its designed had been sharpened even further,
its output increased to 560 hp and many detail improvement made throughout, demonstrating the dedication
that Lamborghini applies to perfecting its super sports cars.
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