Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera
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Lamborghini
2nd March, 2010
Even more dynamic, lighter, more powerful and stunning – the
Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is the new top model in the Gallardo line-up. Its evocative “superlight”
badge refers to a driving machine of true sporting character and describes a high-performance and lean automotive
'athlete'. The Superleggera makes its entrance to continue the success of its predecessor, launched in 2007, of
which Lamborghini produced and sold no less than 618 in just one year.
Compared with the already lean Gallardo LP 560-4, the weight of the Gallardo Superleggera has been trimmed by
70 kilogrammes (154 lb). The super sports car from Sant’Agata Bolognese boasts a dry weight of no more than 1,340
kilogrammes (2954 lb) – the lightest road-going model in Lamborghini’s range, and a new arrival in one of the most
exclusive market niche segments.
One key factor is the exterior and interior components made from carbon-fibre, which is ideal for the
manufacture of sports cars as its use allows for weight reduction and improved mechanical features. The car’s
performance is thus enhanced thanks to a better weight-to-power ratio and reduced total mass, which means that CO2
emissions are also lower. Lamborghini has been at the forefront in this material’s application for many years, and
now the brand is extending its leadership even further.
The V10 power unit with 5.2 litres (317,6 cu in) of displacement generates 419 kW (570 CV*) in the Gallardo
Superleggera. This puts the weight-to-power ratio of the new top model at only 2.35 kilogrammes (5.18 lb) per CV
and guarantees breathtaking performance. The Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera handles the dash from zero to 100 km/h
(0-62 mph) in 3.4 seconds and flies past the 200 km/h (124 mph) mark only 10.2 seconds later, ultimately reaching
325 km/h (202 mph). The engine with “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” petrol direct injection also boasts an
impressive degree of efficiency. Its fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by 20.5 per cent
compared to the previous model.
The Gallardo Superleggera is an uncompromising driving machine. Its running gear, with its mighty braking
system, has a dedicated and exceptionally precise set-up, while its 19 inch wheels, Pirelli P Zero Corsa, clad in
Pirelli sports rubber, are extremely light. The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera brings a whole new
meaning to the term “super sports car”.
Design and aerodynamics
The elegance of every Lamborghini rests on both its extreme power and precise functionality. The Gallardo LP
570-4 Superleggera’s body shell is sculptured and completely free from stylistic additions. Dimensions define the
contours of a dynamic wedge – 4.39 metres (172.7 in) long, 1.90 metres (74.8 in) wide, but only 1.17 metres (45.9
in) high.
Exterior modifications are all directed at increasing aerodynamic effects. Working closely with wind tunnel
experts, the designers from Lamborghini’s Centro Stile remodelled the front bumper – three-dimensional, deeply
recessed elements form trapezoidal frames for the large air intakes. Together with the V-shaped, sharply defined
nose and the LED daytime running lights, the black elements give the front end a razor-sharp look, reminiscent of
Lamborghini’s top model. The new design increases the supply of cooling air and improves the
down force on the
front axle.
The modifications to the fully-covered under-body, which include new sill elements and a redesigned diffuser
incorporating four large tailpipes, help to achieve better aerodynamic results. The Gallardo Superleggera sports
a small rear spoiler as standard. A big rear spoiler is available as an option.
The body shell
The model on which the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is based, the Gallardo LP 560-4, is already a prime
example of Lamborghini’s light weight engineering philosophy, with its dry weight of 1,410 kilogrammes (3,108.5
lb). Its body shell is made from aluminium, with moulded node elements and extruded parts forming an extremely
stiff framework into which the aluminium panels are integrated. The space frame structure is impact-resistant and
forms the basis for the super sports car’s precise handling.
Against this background, the task of reducing the weight by a further 70 kilogrammes (154 lb) presented a
huge challenge to Lamborghini engineers – the target figure, a weight-to-power ratio of 2.35 kilogrammes (5.18
lb) per CV, sets a new best among the competition. Lamborghini engineers handled the task as they usually do –
with hi-tech competence and aesthetic flair.
The rear windshield and side windows are made from robust and resistant polycarbonate. The engine cover also
includes a polycarbonate window, beneath which the V10 engine is displayed like a technical work of art. The
long cover section runs from the roof to the rear of the vehicle and is made from carbon-fibre. Engineers also
selected carbon-fibre for the rear spoiler, sills, diffuser, parts of the under-body
panelling and the fine
exterior mirror casings.
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With its minimal weight and extremely high rigidity, carbon-fibre is the ideal material for a super
sports car. As far back as the 1980s, Lamborghini was already gathering experience in this field with the
Contac. Today, some parts of the Murcielago's structure are made from carbon-fibre. In order to secure
this leading position even further, the brand from Sant’Agata Bolognese established a centre of excellence
for carbon-fibre materials, where specialists are developing components, working with efficient
manufacturing technologies.
Lamborghini’s carbon-fibre strategy is further proven by its foundation of the “Automobili Lamborghini
Advanced Composite Structures Laboratory” (ACSL) at the University of Washington in Seattle, USA.
Lamborghini provides support to the facility and its long-term, co-operative research work in the fields
of aeronautics and astronautics, together with the composite materials’ application within the automotive
sector. Alongside the University of Washington, aircraft company Boeing is also among Lamborghini’s
partners.
The aircraft manufacturer commands enormous expertise in the field of composite materials. With the new
Type 787 Dreamliner, Boeing has developed the world’s first commercial aircraft built from carbon-fibre.
Thanks to its superior characteristics, it consumes around 20 per cent less fuel than a conventional
aeroplane.
The interior and the use of carbon-fibre
Altogether, carbon-fibre components make up 40 (88 lb) of the 70 kilogrammes (154 lb) saved on the
Gallardo Superleggera. In the interior, too, engineers aimed to reduce weight as much as possible. The
centre tunnel cover, the door panels and the surround of the e-gear automated manual transmission lever
are made from carbon-fibre. The high-end material is also used for the sports seats’ shells. They make a
significant contribution to the overall weight reduction.
Just like the rest of the cockpit, the sports seats are clad in light weight Alcantara instead of
leather. At Lamborghini, weight reduction is in no way synonymous with sacrifice – the Gallardo LP
570-4 Superleggera is still equipped with air conditioning and electric powered windows as standard.
Lamborghini has built on this strength – the interior is crafted with passionate attention to the
tiniest detail; high quality materials indulge both visually and sensually.
The interior, including roof and mats, retains the Lamborghini Gallardo’s black finish. As a
contrasting colour for elements such as seat trims and stitching, customers can choose among green,
yellow, orange and two shades of grey. They match exterior paint finishes in Verde Ithaca, Giallo Midas,
Arancio Borealis, Grigio Telesto, Nero Noctis and Bianco Monocerus.
The engine
In the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera, LP stands for “longitudinale posteriore” and refers to the
positioning of the V10 engine – which is mounted longitudinally behind the driver, just like every
Lamborghini engine. The number 570 refers to the maximum power output in CV, which equates to 419 kW and
is available at 8,000 rpm. Equally impressive is the pulling power – the torque curve peaks at 540 Nm
(398,3 ft lbs) at 6,500 rpm. The increase of 7 kW (10 CV) is the result of the new dedicated engine
management strategy.
The V10 has a displacement of 5,204 cm3 and achieves a specific output of 80.5 kW (109.6 CV) per
litre. Special features on this long-stroke engine with an aluminium crankcase include dry sump
lubrication and a cylinder angle of 90 degrees. Both solutions lower the centre of gravity, thus
improving the handling dynamics. To ensure an ideal combustion chamber fill, the engine has an
adjustable intake manifold and continuous control of the chain-driven camshafts.
The crankshaft is conceived as a dual-plane crank – the connecting rods of opposing pistons share one
bearing. This configuration delivers alternating ignition intervals of 54 and 90 degrees; a unique
sequence that is the reason for the compelling, racing car-like sound of the V10. As the revs rise,
resounding bass notes are overlaid with razor sharp harmonics.
The powerful V10, combined with the model’s weight reduction, gives the Gallardo Superleggera LP
570-4 breathtaking performance. The car accelerates zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 3.4 seconds, 0 to
200 km/h (0-124 mph) in 10.2 seconds – then continues relentlessly to its top speed of 325 km/h (202
mph).
The Gallardo Superleggera is also considerably more efficient – compared with its predecessor, its
fuel consumption in the EU driving cycle is reduced by 3.5 litres per 100 kilometre (0.9 gal), or 20.5
per cent, to 13.5 litres/100 km (16 mpg). This improvement is partly due to the “Iniezione Diretta
Stratificata” petrol direct injection, which injects fuel into the combustion chambers at pressures of
up to 100 bar. The tumbling mix cools the combustion chambers, which enables a very high compression
ratio of 12.5:1 which, in turn, increases efficiency.
Power transmission
The Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera comes with the e-gear transmission operated via steering wheel
paddles, as standard. The automated system with electronic management shifts through its six gears
extremely smoothly and far more quickly than could be achieved by human reflexes.
The e-gear control unit has three operating modes, two of which available in automatic. The
“Thrust mode” delivers maximum off-the-line performance and is programmed to manage starting revs of
around 5,000 rpm with minimal wheel slip.
Every single kilometre in the new Superleggera is utterly thrilling – not least because of the
relentless traction in practically every situation. This is largely attributable to the four driven
wheels, as indicated by the number 4 in the model name.
The permanent all-wheel drive integrates a central viscous coupling and a 45 per cent limited slip
differential on the rear axle. In normal circumstances, the power delivered by the V10 is
channelled
with a ratio of 30:70 to the front and rear axles. The weight distribution of the super light Gallardo
is 43/57 per cent front/rear.
In 1993, the Diablo VT was the first Italian super sports car with an all-wheel drive set-up, and
Lamborghini has been steadily consolidating its leadership ever since. In fact, thanks to the car’s
superior traction, Lamborghini drivers can accelerate earlier out of a bend than drivers of rear-wheel
drive cars.
The running gear
The new Gallardo Superleggera is a highly-concentrated driving machine – it thrills with
breathtaking cornering speeds and fast, immediate feedback. Its handling is always precise, stable
and predictable.
The running gear layout is derived directly from Lamborghini’s motor sport experience. The
suspension is aluminium double wishbones. The precise rack and pinion steering keeps the driver very
closely connected with the road. The shock absorbers are extremely firm, and the anti-roll bars and
suspension mounts have been further reinforced: these features enable the running gear to reach its
full dynamic potential. No other model in the Gallardo range is as close to a race car as this one.
The development of the Superleggera was heavily influenced by experiences gained from the world’s
fastest single-brand race series, the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo.
Another special feature of the Gallardo Superleggera is the wheels. The 19 inch units are aluminium
forged and are therefore extremely light weight – saving 13 kilogrammes (28.6 lb). The wheel bolts are
made from titanium and are also incredibly light and rigid. The tyres are 235/35 ZR19 at the front and
295/30 ZR19 at the rear and come from the Pirelli P Zero Corsa series. Developed specifically for the
new top model in the Gallardo range, they are closely related to pure race rubber.
Behind the huge wheels are brakes that serve to deliver uncompromising stopping power and are
managed by the standard-fit ESP stability control system. The front wheels are served by aluminium
eight-piston callipers, with four-piston units at the rear. The ventilated brake discs have a diameter
of 365 and 356 millimetres (ø 14.37 x 1.34 in and 14.02 x 1.26 in) respectively. As an optional extra,
Lamborghini can fit extremely fade-resistant and light weight discs made from carbon-fibre ceramic
with six pistons at the front. The front ceramic discs have a diameter of 380 millimetres (ø 15 x 1.5
in).
Equipment
Alongside its specialised carbon-fibre light weight components, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4
Superleggera is delivered ex-works with an array of other high-end features. Highlights include the
e-gear transmission – a manual gearbox is also available at no additional cost – the dedicated set-up,
the Pirelli sports tyres and the sports seats. Alcantara upholstery and a hand-stitched steering wheel
also set the interior ambiance.
The range of special equipment is particularly sporty. It includes carbon-fibre ceramic brake discs,
four-point seat belts, fire extinguisher and a steel roll cage. Visual impact can be further increased
by a rear spoiler and the engine bay for the engine compartment – both from carbon-fibre – as well as
coloured brake callipers.
For the interior, Lamborghini offers special floor mats and leather steering wheels, a storage
package and an alarm system. An additional carbon-fibre package includes centre console and instrument
panel trim, the parking brake handle, parts of the steering wheel and the door handles. A LED light
package illuminates the engine compartment, the interior, and the entry area.
Additional features of special equipment increase comfort, such as the multimedia navigation system,
the lifting system which raises the front of the car to enable driving over obstacles, a remote control
for opening garage doors and a rear view camera mounted beneath the rear spoiler. Customers who want to
personalise their Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera, can use Lamborghini’s wide-ranging options of the
“Ad Personam” individualisation programme.
Technical data
| Frame |
Structural aluminium space frame, based on aluminium extruded parts welded to aluminium
cast joint elements |
| Body |
Aluminium with thermoplastic ″hang on″ parts and carbon-fibre elements |
| Rear Spoiler |
Fixed, in carbon fibre |
| Engine cover |
In carbon fibre |
| Suspension |
Aluminium double wishbones front and rear suspension system, front and rear anti-roll bar |
Airbags
| Front |
Front Dual Stage driver and passenger airbags, doors with side
impact protection; on optional ‘comfort’ seats only: head/thorax airbag |
| ESP |
Full ESP System with ABS, ASR and ABD |
Tyres and wheels
| Tyres (Front/rear) |
Pirelli P Zero Corsa 235/35 ZR19 front – 295/30 ZR19
rear |
| Wheels (front-rear) |
Aluminium alloy, 8.5’’ x ø 19’’- 11’’ x ø 19’’ |
| Steering |
Power- assisted rack and pinion |
| Kerb-to-kerb turning circle |
11.5 m - (37.7 ft) |
Brakes
| Steel brakes |
Ventilated discs (front-rear)
ø 365 x 34 mm front – ø 356 x 32 mm rear
US - ø 14,37 x 1,34 in - ø 14,02 x 1,26 in
Power vacuum, aluminium alloy callipers :
8- cylinder front callipers and 4-cylinder rear callipers |
| CCB brakes |
Ventilated discs (front-rear)
ø 380 x 38 mm front – ø 356 x 32 mm rear
US- ø 15 x 1.5 in - ø 14 x 1.26 in
Power vacuum, aluminium alloy callipers :
6-cylinder front callipers and 4-cylinder rear callipers |
Engine
| Type |
10 cylinders V90°, DOHC 40 valves, direct injection (Iniezione Diretta Stratificata) |
| Displacement |
5,204 cc (317.6 cu in) |
| Compression ratio |
12.5 : 1 |
| Bore/stroke |
ø 84.5mm x 92.8mm – (ø 3.33 in x 3.65 in) |
| Air intake system |
Variable geometry |
| Maximum power |
419 kW (570 CV*) at 8,000 rpm |
| Maximum torque |
540 Nm at 6,500 rpm – (398.3 ft lbs) |
| Engine management system |
Bosch MED 9 |
| Cooling system |
Engine and Gearbox oil radiators |
| Cooling system water |
Two water radiators |
| Emission control system |
Catalytic converters with lambda sensors |
| Lubrication system |
Dry sump |
Drivetrain
| Type of transmission |
Permanent 4-wheel drive with viscous traction system |
| Gearbox |
6 Speed + reverse, an optional, robotised sequential e-gear system with actuation by paddles on steering column |
| Clutch |
Double plate ø 215 mm (ø 8.46 in) |
| Rear differential |
45% limited slip |
| Front differential |
Limited slip by ABD function |
Performance
| Top speed |
325 km/h (202 mph) |
| Acceleration (0-100 km/h [0-62 mph]) |
3.4 sec. |
| Acceleration (0-200 km/h [0-124 mph]) |
10.2 sec. |
Dimensions
| Wheelbase |
2,560 mm (100.8 in) |
| Overall length |
4,386 mm (172.7 in) |
| Overall width |
1,900 mm (74.8 in) |
| Overall height |
1,165 mm (45.9 in) |
| Dry weight |
1,340kg (2,954 lb) |
| Weight distribution (front-rear) |
43% - 57% |
Capacities
| Engine oil |
10 litres (2.6 US gal) |
| Fuel tank |
90 litres (23.8 US gal) |
| Engine coolant |
20 litres (5.3 US gal) |
EU Consumption with E-Gear**
| Urban |
20.4 L/100 km |
| Extra urban |
9.4 L/100 km |
| Combined |
13.5 L/100 km |
| Emission |
Euro 5 *** - LEV2 |
| CO2 |
319 gr/km |
EU Consumption with manual transmission**
| Urban |
22.2 L/100 km |
| Extra urban |
10 L/100 km |
| Combined |
14.4 L/100 km |
| Emission |
Euro 5*** - LEV 2 |
| CO2 |
344 grammes/km |
* The horse power (hp) can be calculated as follows: 1 kW = 1.34 hp
** In accordance with Dir. EC/1999/100
*** MY 2011
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