To mark the end of production of its 599 GTB, Ferrari has built the ultimate version of the popular grand tourer, the new 599XX Evolution.

Just as the original Ferrari Enzo-based FXX experimental supercar had its more extreme FXX Evolution variant, the 599XX Evolution, or ‘Evoluzione’ as it’s labeled by Ferrari, essentially takes the already potent 599XX and turns up the wow factor.

For any ‘clienti’ who has just bought a 599XX, the new 599XX Evolution is essentially an upgrade to the previous car. It is being made available to clients participating in the Ferrari Corse Clienti track-based research and development program for the 2012-2013 seasons.

Already featuring the culmination of Ferrari’s road and racing technology, the 599XX in Evolution trim now features improved chassis dynamics thanks to an active aerodynamic package integrated with the vehicles’ electronic control systems.

The key to this aero package is the active rear wing design which represents a new aerodynamic concept called "opening gap".

Ferrari 599XX Evolution spy shots

Ferrari 599XX Evolution spy shots

The wing features two flaps with profiles similar to those used in Formula 1. These rotate electronically to adjust the downforce between the front and rear axles in relation to a number of parameters: steering wheel angle, longitudinal acceleration, lateral acceleration and vehicle speed.

These parameters are also integrated with the car’s other control functions (ESP, ABS, SCM and F1-Trac). As a result of this integration, all the electronic controls have been suitably recalibrated and in the end help to improve cornering ability.

The new aerodynamics package for the 599XX Evolution also includes a modified front splitter and a new rear diffuser featuring a larger surface area and redesigned fences and foot-plates. Total downforce at 124 mph is boosted to 727 pounds when the flaps are open and 970 pounds in the closed configuration.

The car is also more powerful than before (740 horsepower) thanks to new side exhausts, plus it also weighs 77 pounds less and comes with a new set of super sticky Pirelli tires. When combined with a final gear ratio that’s slightly shorter to improve acceleration on technical, medium- to high-speed tracks, the result is that the car laps Fiorano in just 1:15.

The Ferrari 599XX Evolution will make its official world debut later this month at the 2011 Bologna Motor Show, meaning the replacement for the 599 will likely be seen for the first time at Ferrari’s stands at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show next March.