Ferrari 599XX Evolution debuts at Bologna with active aero and 740bhp
Ferrari has revealed the 599XX Evolution package at the Bologna Motor Show, adding active aerodynamics, more power and less weight to its exclusive track-only V12 flagship.
Ferrari has unveiled the 599XX Evolution at the 2011 Bologna Motor Show, introducing a suite of upgrades for its most exclusive track-only model. The Evolution package, available to existing 599XX owners, brings active aerodynamics, a power boost to 740bhp, and a lighter chassis, further cementing the XX programme’s role as Ferrari’s rolling laboratory.
Active aerodynamics and lighter chassis
The most striking feature of the 599XX Evolution is its active rear wing, a first for a Ferrari customer car. The wing features two electronically controlled flaps that adjust in real time, responding to steering angle, acceleration and speed to optimise downforce on the fly. At 124mph, the system delivers 330kg of downforce with the flaps open and up to 440kg when closed. The package also includes a new front splitter and a revised rear diffuser, all aimed at maximising grip and stability through high-speed corners.
Weight is down by 35kg compared to the standard 599XX, thanks to further use of lightweight materials and the adoption of a side-exit exhaust system. The revised exhaust not only saves weight but also contributes to a 20bhp power increase, bringing the total to 740bhp at 9,000rpm and 516lb ft of torque at 6,500rpm. Ferrari has also fitted a shorter final drive ratio for sharper acceleration, and the car runs on bespoke Pirelli tyres mounted to 19-inch wheels.
Performance and track programme
With the Evolution upgrades, the 599XX is now capable of 0-60mph in a claimed 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 315km/h. The Fiorano lap time falls to 1 minute 15 seconds, two seconds quicker than the original 599XX and nine seconds ahead of the road-legal 599 GTO. The 599XX Evolution’s technical advances are not for the road or competition use, but for Ferrari’s own track events, where owners can drive under the supervision of Ferrari engineers and contribute telemetry for future development.
The Evolution package is priced at around $250,000 on top of the original 599XX’s $1.75 million cost. Only 29 examples of the 599XX were built, and Ferrari has offered the Evolution upgrade exclusively to existing owners. The package also extends participation in the XX programme, giving owners more track time and Ferrari more data for its ongoing research. Ferrari retains custody of the cars between events, with owners invited to drive at factory-run track days or, with special arrangement, at other venues under Ferrari supervision.
Bologna stand: XX Evolution and Ferrari’s racing showcase
Alongside the 599XX Evolution at Bologna, Ferrari displayed the AF Corse 458 Italia GT2, fresh from its Le Mans Series titles, as well as the 458 Italia GT3 and the FXX. The show concluded with a demonstration run by the 2010 F10 Formula One car, driven by Giancarlo Fisichella, highlighting the close relationship between Ferrari’s racing technology and its customer track specials.
