Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept Debuts in Paris

ITS GOIN DOWN IN PARIS

The ultimate formula to engineering a high-performance automobile is the power-to-weight ratio. Most automakers that want their cars to go faster up the power part, but some are increasingly focusing on reducing weight, which also happens to help with handling, braking, fuel economy, carbon emissions.Lamborghini has typically fallen into the former category, but has declared its intentions to join the latter with the Sesto Elemento concept.

Currently on display at the Paris Auto Salon, the Sesto Elemento is a case study in performance through reduced weight. The Italian engineers managed to curb the curb weight down to below the 1000 kilogram (2,200 lb) mark through the extensive use of carbon fiber and carbon-reinforced plastic in the frame, body, suspension, brakes…even the wheels. Coupled with the 570-horsepower V10 engine from the Gallardo, the reduced weight is said to be capable of propelling the Sesto Elemento from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in just 2.5 seconds, topping out over 300 km/h (186 mph).

Although strictly a concept for the time being, methods and design elements from the show car promise to find their way into the next generation of Lamborghini supercars roaring around the corner.