Lamborghini’s new track-only Essenza SCV12 hypercar packs the company’s most powerful V12 engine yet.

Highlights

• Only 40 examples of the Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 will be produced.
• It gets a number of mechanical and cosmetic features inspired by Lamborghini’s GT3 race cars.
• Lamborghini claims it will have a power-to-weight ratio of roughly 2hp per 1kg.

What is the Lamborghini Essenza SCV12?

The SCV12 has been designed by Lamborghini’s Squadra Corse racing division exclusively for track use and features extensive mechanical, aerodynamic and chassis upgrades over the Aventador on which it is loosely based. Only 40 examples will be built.

The firm has previously hinted that it is plotting an entry to Le Mans 2021 with a new hypercar category, and it's likely the SCV12 will provide the basis for its factory racer.

What engine does the Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 use?

It features Lamborghini’s 6.5-litre, naturally aspirated V12 engine in its most powerful state of tune yet, producing 830hp. This is even more powerful (by 10hp) than the Sián hybrid hypercar.

Other modifications to the powertrain include a redesigned dual-exit exhaust system, which improves performance and produces a unique engine note, along with a new Xtrac sequential 6-speed gearbox.

What is the exterior of the Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 like?

The design features a number of hexagonal elements, including the shape of the front headlights and roof scoop. It also gets 19-inch (front) and 20-inch (rear) magnesium wheels.

A major talking point is the comprehensive aero package inspired by Lamborghini’s Huracán GT3 racer. It comprises a dual-air intake on the bonnet, a roof-mounted air scoop, a sizeable front splitter and winglets that send air to the gaping side intakes, which in turn cool the engine and gearbox.

Together with the SCV12’s large, adjustable rear spoiler, the additions help the hypercar generate 1,200kg of downforce at 250kph.

What upgrades have been made to the Essenza SCV12’s chassis?

The body is built around a new carbon-fibre monocoque chassis, and although the car's precise weight has not been disclosed, Lamborghini claims a power-to-weight ratio of roughly 2hp per 1kg.

The track car’s lightweight bodyshell is divided into three separate components to allow for quick replacement of damaged sections during pit stops.

What is the interior of the Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 like?

The interior is features plenty of Alcantara and carbon, with a Y-shaped carbon structure dividing the driver and passenger seats. The SCV12 gets a multifunction steering wheel with an in-built telemetry display – modelled after those used in Formula 1 cars – a pair of FIA-approved carbon-fibre racing seats and red door pull straps in place of conventional handles to save weight.

What will the Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 owners get?

SCV12 owners will be enrolled in what Lamborghini calls an “exclusive club”, which will allow them to drive their car on various global race circuits from 2021, store the car in a new purpose-built hangar at the manufacturer’s Sant’Agata headquarters and take part in the same athletic training programme as Squadra Corse’s racing drivers.

Squadra Corse engineers will be on hand at the customer track events, joined by five-time Le Mans winner Emanuele Pirro and Lamborghini racer Marco Mapelli, who will offer track driving advice to the 40 SCV12 owners.