Maranello, 12th February 2014
The Ferrari California T epitomises elegance, sportiness,
versatility and exclusivity: characteristics that have distinguished
every California model since the 1950s.
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The California T boasts striking standards of innovation while
retaining signature features such as the successful 2+ concept, a
refined cabin and, of course, the retractable hard top (RHT) which
transforms it from a chic coupé into a sleekly sophisticated spider
in a mere 14 seconds.
The model brims with a host of new solutions, not least of which
is its 8-cylinder turbo engine. Maranello’s engineers have created
an entirely new power unit which delivers absolutely superb levels
of performance, blistering pick-up and the most exhilarating
soundtrack any turbo has ever yielded.
This is also the first time virtually zero turbo lag has been
achieved on an engine of this type, guaranteeing instantaneous
response to commands and, as with naturally-aspirated power
units, a torque curve that increases constantly across the rev
range thanks to Variable Boost Management.
The direct-injection, 3855 cc turbo 8-cylinder is mounted very low
in the chassis in a mid-front position and delivers 560 cv at 7500
rpm, which translates into a specific power output of 145 cv/l –
the highest in its category – as along with maximum torque of
755 Nm. Figures that give the California T extraordinary
acceleration over the 0 to 100 km/h sprint which it covers in just
3.6 seconds.
As in Formula 1 this season, a turbo is used to cut fuel
consumption and CO2 emissions. Compared to the outgoing
model, fuel consumption is down by around 15 per cent* despite
70 cv more power and a 49 per cent increase in torque.
Emissions are down to 250 g/km over the combined cycle which
equates to a 20 per cent reduction in the CO2/cv ratio (0.44 g/cv).
The California T’s engine also benefits from several other solutions
used on the single-seater, not least compact, very low inertia
twin-scroll turbines to ensure ultra-sharp throttle response. The
Scuderia’s methodologies and plant are also used for certain
phases of its production, particularly at the casting stage.
One major challenge involved in the design of the California T was
to guarantee it a typically intense, exhilarating Ferrari engine
sound. This was achieved through meticulous design work and
the use of special manufacturing techniques for essential
components, such as the flat-plane crankshaft and the
three-piece cast exhaust manifold and turbo housing. The engine
produces a powerful, engaging sound during both the intake and
exhaust phases, becoming even more potent as engine speed
increases. This the first time a result of this kind has ever been
achieved with a turbo engine.
The California T delivers true sports car dynamics too, thanks to
reduced steering wheel activity and improved steering response to
driver input, courtesy of a new steering box and suspension
set-up. New springs and latest-generation Magnaride dampers
(which respond 50 per cent faster), combined with body motion
accelerometers, reduce roll and pitch for more precise handling
whilst still guaranteeing an incredibly comfortable ride.
The California T also has the latest evolution of the F1-Trac
traction control system for maximum acceleration out of corners,
thereby underscoring the sportier side of its personality.
The California T’s architecture, controls and new 8-cylinder engine
ensure consistently intense driving pleasure in challenging driving
conditions as well as making the car fun to drive even in more
relaxed situations, very much in the Grand Tourer tradition.
The CCM3 carbon-ceramic braking system is also extremely
efficient with new composite discs and pads. The brakes are
integrated with the ESP 8.0 premium which controls the high
performance ABS for a short 100 to 0 km/h braking distance of
just 34 metres.
Considerable attention was paid to the design, maintaining the
outgoing model’s overvall dimensions while ensuring that the
California T has a new, individual personality. The sleek
proportions were penned by the Ferrari Styling Centre in
collaboration with Pininfarina and are very much in keeping with
the Ferrari front-engined ethos. The shape of the California T’s
flanks is inspired by the 250 Testa Rossa’s famous
pontoon-fender styling, with the front wing line stretching back
towards the compact, muscular rear, bringing an aerodynamic
sleekness and movement to the sides. The rear benefits from
meticulous aerodynamic research resulting in a new triple-fence
diffuser.
The California T’s cabin was designed to be as ergonomic as
possible and exudes a sense of warmth and craftsmanship, with
luxurious Frau semi-aniline leather trim. The interior space is
flexible so that owners can make the most efficient use of the
boot capacity even with the top down, thanks to the opening
between the luggage compartment and rear seats.
The human-machine interface encompasses the Ferrari steering
wheel with integrated controls while the Turbo Performance
Engineer (TPE) takes pride of place between the two air vents in
the centre of the dash. The TPE display boasts a capacitive
(touch-sensitive) surround to scroll through screens with
information on making the most of the new engine’s performance.
The California T also features a new infotainment system with an
extremely intuitive, high-resolution 6.5” screen featuring both
touch-screen and conventional controls.
The California T will be unveiled at the Geneva International Motor
Show in March, but from today can be admired online at
www.ferrari.com in its two launch colours: Rosso California, an
intense, deep new red inspired by classic Ferraris, and Blu
California, which underscores the versatility and elegance of this
new model.
*The consumption cut is calculated on a driving cycle that
realistically reproduces a clients’ use of the car
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