Geneva Motor Show Special: In conversation with Flavio Manzoni

evo India: What is the design philosophy behind the 812 Superfast?

Flavio: It was very challenging as the 812 is a very efficient shape in terms of performance and aerodynamics. We wanted to achieve a much higher level of performance due to the newer engine but it was extremely important to integrate several and original aerodynamic solutions. It was important for my team to understand the principles necessary to keep such a powerful car stuck to the ground. That’s why, for example, we decided to find a way to integrate the rear spoiler which is quite big and high compared to the F12, into a shape that makes it not so evident. Because a Ferrari should be elegant even if it is a beast, a very powerful car like the 812. So we decided to give it a fastback architecture, creating a new balance in the volume. You can see one line for the bonnet and the greenhouse which somewhat resembles a Daytona. The language of the form clearly declares the power of the car. We worked on this idea of wraparound elements, so in the front and the rear, you get to see two surfaces that are wrapping around the wheel arches. The lights are integrated with this aerodynamic function.

evo India: You will continue to use naturally aspirated engines at Ferrari?

Flavio: A big part of our passionate customers wants to have an engine like this one. This represents the pinnacle. For a V12, this is our strongest engine ever made, so the challenge for our engineers has been to push the performance to the limit without using any turbocharging and the result is unbelievable. Acceleration from 0-100kmph is in 2.9 seconds and top speed is 340kmph. But the pleasure of driving this car is amazing. It is very easy to drive. It isn’t just made for experts and it is interesting how the conditions of the project have influenced this shape. The turning vanes, the two splitters, the channels necessary to open the active flaps, there are many things.

evo India: How much work went into the wind tunnel and how much effort went into tapping into the F1 aerodynamic history that you have?

Flavio: In Ferrari, we have such a high expertise in aerodynamics from both F1 and GT research, and also from the XX programme. We don’t transfer anything directly so we have had to find different solutions that are suitable for a car like this. If you analyse the complexity of F1, it cannot be as simple today as 20 years ago. Because that technology developed very fast. So the tricky question is how to make an integrated approach to the shape.

evo India: Are we seeing a classical front engine, RWD Ferrari now in its most modern avatar?

Flavio: This car represents the top of the luxury sportscars we make. So the form needs to be very elegant. This car is very energetic and powerful. You need a connection between the roof and the spoiler. That makes everything more harmonious.

evo India: How do you structure in the weight distribution?

Flavio: This car is a very good example on low weight. We worked a lot on high performance materials, for example, in the interior, we used carbon fibre, but at the same time we tried to reduce the number of components. With additional parts, the weight immediately increases. The rear fender, which is a complex part, has been done in one mould so the piece is very light. We have tried to find a combination between beauty and sophistication.