Spy Shots: New Details On Lamborghini's Murcielago Replacement

Lamborghini recently launched its new LP670-4 SV, a car many believe to be the final evolution of the Murcielago platform--though a Reventon Roadster is also rumored to be in the works--so it’s not surprising to see test-mules for the car’s replacement lurking around the streets of Sant'Agata and Germany’s Nurburgring. This new Lamborghini will have some tough competition when it arrives as there are new supercar models in the works at rival brands Ferrari, McLaren, and Aston Martin. While it’s still too early to speculate on the final specs, there are several crucial details we can gather from recent spy shots, as well as new reports coming out of Europe. One of the biggest changes over the outgoing Murcielago will be the adoption of the Audi R8’s aluminum spaceframe chassis as well as a carbon-fiber bodyshell. This means that the new model will retain the Murcielago’s mid-engine layout but be much lighter. According to previous reports, its wheelbase will be similar in length to the Murcielago but its overhangs, both front and rear, will be much shorter. Furthermore, as evidenced by the extended fender flares in these spy shots, it will feature a wider track. Mounted to each wheel of the test-mule is a RoaDyn torque sensor used to monitor the different forces and torque levels exerted on a specific wheel at different speeds. The data gathered can help engineers work out varying grip and traction levels in an effort to fine tune the vehicle’s all-wheel drive and suspension settings, plus ride characteristics. A big-cube V-12 engine will likely remain but the addition of direct injection technology should improve fuel-efficiency and power levels across the rev-range. In this way, engineers will be able to improve performance without having to boost power, the end result of which will be a much easier to drive Lamborghini flagship. The 670 horsepower and 487 pound-feet of torque developed by the latest Murcielago LP670-4 SV gives us a rough estimate as to what to expect. A dual-clutch transmission may also be offered to help transfer power to the four wheels. This may also be the first Lamborghini to be fitted with a hybrid powertrain, as well as fuel-saving engine stop-start and brake-energy regeneration technologies. CEO Stephan Winkelmann has already hinted at a 2015 launch for a hybrid Lamborghini and the new supercar’s expected 2012 release date puts it right on target to be the first green Lambo. [AutoExpress]

by Edward #1, Posted: 10/23/2008

Wow!!! Best Italian design since Giugiaro's Lotus Esprit.
by Gus Chyba #2, Posted: 10/23/2008

It would be so much fun to work there, wouldn't it? :)
by NoNameDenton #3, Posted: 10/23/2008

How about a turbo or two with low displacment to appease the Greenies
by Hike15 #4, Posted: 10/23/2008

I didnt know that beast could get any wider!

stil awesome looking thing
by NoNameDenton #5, Posted: 10/23/2008

Probably the cladding
by WizardsLore #6, Posted: 6/1/2009

yes possibly the cladding but that thing isnt going to fit down most roads !!
by NoNameDenton #7, Posted: 6/1/2009

That was an old comment from when this story was last posted
by WizardsLore #8, Posted: 6/2/2009

i know...just wanted to put my bit in :D
by hamza bordie #9, Posted: 8/8/2009

its the same model like the murcielaga except it has a power of 700hp
By NoNameDenton #10, Posted: 9/3/2009

Glad they are adding direct injection
By Mark Smeyers #11, Posted: 9/4/2009

These shots are really old, they have been published even before the SuperVeloce was shown in Geneva, I'm sure there are test mules running around now, but these shots aren't showing it.
By handy #12, Posted: 9/6/2009

That's wonderful Lamborghini