Ultra-exclusive new model features 1065bhp plug-in hybrid V12 powertrain – and is just as fast as its coupe sibling
Lamborghini has unveiled an ultra-exclusive open-top version of its most powerful model to date, the 1065bhp motorsport-derived Fenomeno.
The new machine is the latest model in the Italian firm’s Few Off series and just 15 examples will be built. That makes the Fenomeno Roadster even more exclusive than its £3 million coupé sibling, of which 30 are scheduled to be produced.
The Fenomeno Roadster uses the same plug-in hybrid powertrain as the coupé, which is a tuned development of the powertrain from the Revuelto. Based around a 6.5-litre V12 engine and a trio of electric motors – two powering the front axle and one mounted to the eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox – the total system output is 1065bhp, up from 1001bhp in the Revuelto.
The V12 alone is tuned to deliver 824bhp at 9250rpm and a torque peak of 535lb ft at 6750rpm. The three motors are powered by a 7kWh lithium ion battery.
The hybrid powertrain allows the Fenomeno Roadster to achieve 0-62mph in 2.4sec and 0-124mph in 6.8sec – all but matching the coupé – while it has a top speed that is claimed to exceed 211mph.
Although the powertrain is largely carried over from the coupé, Lamborghini says the Fenomeno Roadster features an all-new aerodynamic package that is honed to maximise efficiency – and the firm claims it has nearly identical values for downforce, stability and balance.
An additional spoiler above the windscreen guides air over the cockpit and into the bespoke engine cover at the back of the car. This enables the V12 to receive cool air whenever the car is being driven, even though the roadster lacks the motorsport-style S-duck channel that appears on the coupé.
The new engine cover features hexagonal air intakes, a design feature also used on the air vents and instrument display in the interior.
Lamborghini claims that the rollover protection bars for the roadster presented a “particular challenge” because of the need to offer occupant protection while also being aerodynamically efficient to minimise wind noise and turbulence. As a result, the firm has integrated them behind the sport seats, making them part of the car’s structural design.
As with the coupé, the new roadster features a carbonfibre monocoque and a front structure made from forged composites. The use of what Lamborghini calls a “novel combination” of long and short carbonfibre strands means that the drop-top offers a similar level of stiffness to the coupé. While Lamborghini has not disclosed a weight for the car, the firm says it is very close to the coupé’s, which is 1772kg dry.
As with the coupé, the new roadster has an aggressive front end that has been sculpted for aerodynamic performance. Along the side of the car, the wide sills and air intakes are also designed to aid engine cooling. The rear retains a large diffuser and an active rear wing.The car features CCM-R Plus carbon-ceramic brakes and manually adjustable racing shocks. For everyday use, there are bespoke Bridgestone Potenza Sport high-performance tyres, which measure 265/30 ZRF21 at the front, and 355/25 ZRF22 at the rear. But semi-slick Bridgestone tyres will also be offered for track use in 20in and 21in sizes.
