Ferrari has unveiled the all-new mid-rear-engined Berlinetta sports car, the 296 GTB. Amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, Ferrari opted to unveil the car digitally. The 296 GTB claims to be one of the fastest cars in its segment. But if you want more oomph from the vehicle, the Italian brand offers the Assetto Fiorano package as an optional extra.
The Ferrari 296 GTB comes with a new 120-degree V6 engine. The petrol motor belts out 654 Bhp of power. However, the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) is attached to an electric motor that adds another 164 Bhp of power. This takes the total power output of the electrified ICE engine to 818 Bhp. Ferrari derived the electric motor from Formula 1, and the power unit sits on the rear of the vehicle. The PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle) architecture also features the MGU-K (Motor Generator Unit, Kinetic).
Using the MGU-K motor, Ferrari reduced the powertrain’s length quite a bit, which led to the shortening of the wheelbase of the supercar. Ferrari also revealed that the electric motor on its own generates 315 Nm of torque. This torque helps the driver choose to drive the 296 GTB on electric-only power, unlike the LaFerrari. The sportscar transfers the power to the ground using an 8-speed DCT gearbox. This same DCT gearbox also features the SF90 Stradale, Ferrari Roma, Portofino M the SF90 Spider.
Inspired by the LaFerrari, Ferrari has incorporated an active rear spoiler placed between the taillights. This spoiler generates an additional 100kg of downforce over the car’s rear, resulting in better handling. Ferrari has also taken some design cues from the 1963 250 LM. Overall, the vehicle features a typical Italian design, combining smooth flowing lines and sharp edges. The Kamm tail of the 296 GTB adds another dimension to the vehicle’s design language and enhances the rear profile of the two-seater Berlinetta.
The Ferrari 296 GTB comes with a world-first 6-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor (6w-CDS) and a Transition Manager Actuator (TMA). The sports car also features an ABS Evo controller and grip estimation (integrated with the EPS). Ferrari has also equipped the car with energy recovery and electric traction control thanks to the brake-by-wire unit. The car also features an entirely digital interface on the cockpit. The sportscar also comes with a HUD (Heads-Up Display) which is integrated into the leather trim. The brand appears to have taken the minimalist approach for the interiors. But carefully coordinated the dashboard design to match the exterior aesthetics.
Ferrari is offering an extended seven-year maintenance programme with the 296 GTB. The program covers all regular maintenance for the first seven years of the car’s life. The exclusive service program ensures that the car is being kept at peak performance and safety over the years. The Ferrari 296 GTB comes with regular maintenance with an interval of 20,000 km or once a year with no mileage restrictions.
Also Read: Ferrari reveals 812 Competizione & Competizione A