Hennessey Venom GT supercar concept

Hennessey has finally revealed official details about its upcoming Venom GT supercar concept, including this teaser shot whose front end shares a striking resemblance with the Lotus Elise. Penned by Brit designer Steve Everitt, the Venom GT will feature the Viper Venom's 1,000hp twin-turbo V10 engine and a light weight mid-engine chassis weighing less than 1,225kg. Power will be sent through to the rear wheels via a 6-speed transmission or optional sequential gearbox. This means the final version will have a power to weight ratio of just 1.225kg per hp, which Hennessey claims will see the car reach 100km/h from rest in just 2.5 seconds and up to 300km/h in around 14 seconds.

Company founder, John Hennessey, is careful to point out that the Venom GT is not being built as a "Veyron Slayer". He boasts that unlike the Veyron, which he described as "an ultra fast and ultra luxurious grand touring car that also happens to be quicker and faster than any other road car," the Venom GT "will be a much more engaging sports car to drive by challenging the driver with 1000+hp in a chassis that is nearly 680kg lighter."

The car still hasn't been given the green light but initial interest has been strong. According to Hennessey, there have already been several orders for the car including some from existing Venom 1000 Twin Turbo clients. There are currently plans for two separate concepts, the first of which could be shown to the public in 2009. If there is enough demand production will start at the company's Lonestar Motorsports Park facility just outside of Houston.