aBr Magazine August 2025 | Page 37

MOTORING NEWS internal combustion engine. When active, the engine ' s full power can be unleashed for high performance. In ' Hybrid ' mode, electric drive performance is limited to a top speed of 125 km / h and offers less acceleration than ' eDrive ' mode, but it is still sufficient for urban and extraurban use.
Performance: This mode keeps the internal combustion engine constantly running and prioritizes battery charging over efficiency, ensuring instantaneous power availability. It is the ideal mode for spirited driving.
Qualify: This control strategy utilizes the electric motor ' s extra boost function, delivering 180 cv from 6000 rpm upwards, for maximum powertrain performance. The Ferrari Speciale ' s 8-speed dualclutch gearbox features a new upshift management profile( gears 1-7), shortening shift times and boosting driver engagement. This is achieved by synchronizing the electric motor with the gearbox to compensate for acceleration dips during shifts. The V6 engine sound is also recalibrated and accentuated during shifts for a more thrilling experience.
The 296 Speciale boasts 435 kg of downforce at 250 km / h( a 20 % increase over the 296 GTB) due to extensive aerodynamic development. This involved refining the original car ' s aerodynamics and incorporating motorsportderived concepts, guided by CFD and wind-tunnel testing.
Key rear distinguishing features include side wings that combine FXX K and 296 Challenge elements. These vertical fins and horizontal surfaces optimize wake management, generate downforce, and improve radiator cooling. The active spoiler, derived from the 296 GTB, has a revised actuator strategy for quicker High Downforce transitions and a new intermediate Medium Downforce configuration.
Other rear aero solutions include a new diffuser with optimized vortex generators that increase rear downforce and ensure aerodynamic balance across all spoiler configurations.
The front incorporates the 296 Challenge ' s aero damper concept, linking the undertray to the bonnet via a duct, boosting maximum undertray downforce and improving vortex generator efficiency. This ensures consistent front downforce despite ride height changes.
AUGUST 2025 37 WORDS IN ACTION