Ferrari HY-KERS hybrid (2010) at Geneva motor show

By Tim Pollard

First Official Pictures

02 March 2010 08:36

Ferrari today showcased its latest green fuel tech in a new 599 GTB Fiorano concept car dubbed HY-KERS. Maranello announced a five-year eco plan in 2007 when it unveiled the Mille Chili and the HY-KERS is the latest step in the programme.

It's a high-performance supercar to display how frugal consumption and razor-sharp responses can go hand in hand, say the Ferrari engineers.

Ferrari HY-KERS: the detail

The 599 is equipped with a hybrid system claimed to add little extra weight over a conventional V12 599. All the electric gubbins are positioned below the centre of gravity, including the flat lithium ion batteries which sit beneath the floorpan. Ferrari claims the c-of-g is even lower than a regular petrol 599.

How have they achieved such marginal weight gain? Maranello says the new electric motor, generator and batteries are offset by the lack of a traditional starter motor and batteries. The HY-KERS system provides short bursts of extra acceleration when moving from a standstill and overtaking, but can provide full EV capability for short periods.

The electric motor weighs just 40kg and drives through the seven-speed twin-clutch transmission. Ferrari says it aimed to produce one extra horsepower for each kilogram gained in weight, so the e-motor develops more than 100bhp.

Ferrari says that the new direct-injection California and 458 Italia have already cut CO2 emisisons by 30% since 2007.

By Tim Pollard