The Squadra Corse: A Study in Materials

While we might be inclined to run this picture of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Squadra Corse because of its robust design

or because of the fact that it is powered by a 570-hp, V10 engine mated to a six-speed electronically controlled transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddles that is said to change gears faster than even a pro driver could; or because it goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, hits 200 km/h in 10.4 seconds, and has a top speed of 320 km/h.

But that’s not why we’re showing these pictures of the car that is based on the Gallardo Super Trofeo race car and that will be introduced at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Rather, it is because this vehicle is a study in advanced materials deployment. Which means that all of that power and performance comes in a comparatively light package: it has a dry weight of just 1,340 kg. And that means that based on the engine, it has a power-to-weight ratio of just 2.35 kg/hp.

The car features an aluminum body shell and a variety of composite components, such as the rear wing and hood. In addition to which, the interior is based on carbon fiber, as well. The seats, door panels, door handles, glove box handle, center console cover, handbrake frame, lower rim of the steering wheel, and instrument panel trim are all made with the material. The fabric is Alcantara.

Here’s something to note: look at the body side. That green, white and red decal is to signify the car’s heritage, as those are the colors of the Italian flag.