Other than representing the latest in speed, adrenaline and just being really cool – the unveiling of Lamborghini’s latest vehicle also offers some key takeaways that could impact automotive engineering on the less exotic front.
Introduced at last week’s International Motor Show in Frankfurt, the Lamborghini Avendator S Roadster convertible comes with all the bells and whistles that you’d hope for, including a V12 engine that pours out 729 horsepower, 509 foot-pounds of torque, a top speed of 217 mph, and a 0-60 time of 3 seconds.
While those feats alone place the vehicle in rare engineering air, perhaps the biggest takeaway is that the Roadster is able to emulate the exact performance specifications as the non-Roadster model, despite weighing 110 pounds more.
Also, the convertible design typically hinders the aerodynamics of a vehicle, but that doesn’t appear to be the case for the Avendator S Roadster. A 3-position electronically-adjustable rear spoil and paneled underbody help ensure top performance.
Additionally, the Roadster features Lamborghini’s new Active Vehicle Dynamics control system that actually manages each wheel axle, as well as the company’s Dynamic and Rear-wheel steering systems.
This elevates the all-wheel drive platform by taking information from all of the car’s sensors in providing real-time adjustments as driving conditions such as speed, road conditions or weather, change. This not only improves vehicle handling, but safety, especially for a car that can top 125 mph in 9 seconds.
Ideally, these advancements in safety and efficiency will make their way down the automotive food chain. Until then, access will run you just over $460,000 … for the base model.