Ferrari 488 GTB: new V8 benchmark makes Asia-Pacific debut in Shanghai

The Ferrari 488GTB, a new benchmark for the sports car sector, makes its Asia Pacific debut at the Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition.

Forty years from the launch of Ferrari's iconic first-ever mid-rear-engine V8 berlinetta, the 308 GTB, the Ferrari 488 GTB opens a new chapter in the history of cars with this particular architecture.

Amedeo Felisa, CEO of Ferrari attended a press conference on April 20 to unveil this extraordinary model under the spotlight in Shanghai.

Credit for this achievement must go to the 488 GTB's revolutionary proprietary solutions which deliver a car at the top of its class in terms of power output (670 cv) with engine and command response times of just 0.8 and 0.06 seconds.

Significantly, sophisticated dynamic vehicle controls make this massive power completely controllable by drivers of all abilities, resulting in the unique driving pleasure only a Ferrari can deliver.

Ferrari drew extensively on its experience in both Formula One and endurance racing, bringing to the road the technology that delivered victories in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the title in the WEC (World Endurance Championship).

Also pivotal was the XX Program in which Ferrari technicians developed a unique knowledge of the dynamic behavior of extreme cars driven by non-professional drivers.

The 488 in the car's moniker indicates the engine's unitary displacement, while the GTB stands for Gran Turismo Berlinetta, a reference to its deep roots in Ferrari history.

Designed by the Ferrari Style Centre, the 488 GTB's sculptural forms are completely new.

They accentuate the car's sportiness yet retain the classically clean, pure lines typical of Ferrari's legendary styling.

The seamless interweaving of form and function is clear in every detail. Certain design elements are also obvious nods to the past, not least the 308 GTB-inspired styling of the flanks.

The extreme power required by the car is delivered by the new 3902 cm3 turbo engine which is coupled with a seven-gear F1 dual-clutch gearbox featuring Variable Boost Management, which optimally distributes torque (a maximum 750 Nm in seventh gear).

The 488 GTB guarantees exuberant performance that is exploitable to the fullest regardless of driving conditions and is accompanied by a deep, seductive sound that is the signature of all Ferrari engines.

The 488 GTB's revolutionary aerodynamics incorporate patented solutions, such as the blown rear spoiler, as well as innovative features like the 458 GT-derived aerodynamic under-body with vortex generators.

The result is a new efficiency record for a Ferrari (E=1.67). Downforce increases to 325 kg at 250 km/h, thanks in part to active aerodynamic devices that reduce drag whilst simultaneously generating downforce when required.

The 488 GTB's dynamic vehicle controls have also been further evolved. It sports a new version of the Side Slip Control System (SSC2) that, in addition to integrating with the car's F1-Trac and E-Diff, now also controls the active dampers.

This renders the 488 GTB's dynamic behavior during complex maneuvers even flatter and more stable, so less expert drivers can enjoy its potential to the fullest, resulting in an astonishingly engaging driving experience.

Fabulous lineup

Alongside the compelling 488 GTB is the complete Ferrari product line, echoing the "Different Ferraris for different Ferraristi" philosophy.

Ferrari's 12-cylinder cars, the FF and F12 Berlinetta, are the first four-seated and four-wheel drive and the most powerful V12 in the history of the prancing horse logo.

Three versions of the California T are on display at the Shanghai auto show - one is a tailor-made version in Grigio Ingrid livery with three layers of paint and bicolor forged rims.

In homage to the legendary Swedish actress Ingrid Bergman, the Grigio Ingrid version is complemented with a central thin Argento Auteil stripe and Argento Auteil lines on the side air intake, while the cabin design references typical Kennedee style, such as black leather and Count Prestige Reddish Brown Boxmark leather, the Grigio Ingrid painted metallic parts and central seats inspired by the Dezza Poltrona Frau Chair.

The other version is in the new Nero Stellato tone and successfully combines the performance, torque and sound of a conventional Ferrari engine with the additional benefit of the fuel efficiency afforded by turbocharging.

Commitment

Since 1992, when the first Ferrari 348 TS in bright red was delivered to Beijing, the prancing horse has continued to show its respect to Chinese culture over the past 20 years.

In 2015, Ferrari Greater China will initiate a Tribute to Chinese Culture Rally to share the prancing horse's spirit with Chinese customers and Ferrari enthusiasts - the spirit of innovation, technology, attention to details, timeless design, craftsmanship, uniqueness and the pursuit of excellence.

Ferrari has always been passionate about competitions, both on the track and on the road.

The marque not only stands out in sports cars but also represents luxury and elegance. This time, Ferrari brings its famous lifestyle activities to China to share the Ferrari driving pleasure among all invited Ferrari owners.

Ferrari enthusiasts can enjoy a close-quarters look at the entire Ferrari current range as well as iconic models from the recent past. The rally will cover 18 iconic cultural and main cites in China from April until November.

Furthermore, sustainable development is a global strategy for Ferrari. Ferrari is the first luxury automobile brand in China to offset all its carbon emissions by planting trees.

In 2015, Ferrari will keep collaborating with the Million Tree project to neutralize its carbon footprint in China.

These measures have offset all the operating carbon emissions of the prancing horse brand, including car manufacturing, transporting the vehicles from Italy to China, and driving Ferraris for a year in China.

To date, Ferrari has donated 111,267 trees to the Million Tree Project.

fujingjing@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 04/21/2015 page7)