Lamborghini unveils an ultra-lightweight concept with tailpipes made of something called Pyrosic. Whatever that is.
After throwing car nerds across the internet into a tizzy with their teaser images, Lamborghini has unveiled their Sesto Elemento concept. The name means 'sixth element' in Italian (not to be confused with the Bruce Willis movie, The Fifth Element), and if you haven't replaced everything you learned in high school chemistry with useless car knowledge like I have, then you might remember that the sixth element on the periodic table is carbon.
Carbon fiber features prominently in the construction of the Sesto Elemento. The chassis is a carbon fiber monocoque cell. Glued to it are carbon fiber body panels, crash structures and suspension components. Even the wheels and propshaft are made of the stuff. The exhaust system is made of a unique glass ceramic matrix composite called Pyrosic, which is able to withstand temperatures up to 900°.
This carbon fiber overload translates to an incredible weight of 2200 lbs (999 kg). What makes this even more impressive is that the Sesto Elemento retains the compulsory Lamborghini all-wheel-drive system and 570bhp V10 from the Gallardo. This means a power to weight ratio of 1.75 kilograms per hp and a Veyron-matching 0-60 time of 2.5 seconds. Where this car should really shine, though, is in the handling department. Its rigid chassis and extremely light weight should make it a thrilling drive.
It looks great too. The origami-like surfacing is unlike anything else on sale, but the shape and stance make it instantly recognizable as a Lamborghini. The wide-open rear end treatment and exposed gearbox are exceptionally cool, and check out those top exit exhaust outlets!
Don't expect to be able to buy one anytime soon, though. The Sesto Elemento is a design study that shows what we can look forward to with future Lamborghinis.
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