The Technology of the 2015 Lamborghini Huracán

Lamborghini’s director of research and development, Maurizio Reggiani, delves deep inside the new Huracán LP 610-4 and walks through the supercar’s technology inside and out. Beginning with the human interface elements: the steering wheel, the center console, and the in-dash display; then to the car’s mechanical systems including the V10 5.2 naturally aspirated engine, the new dual-clutch gearbox, the four-wheel drive system, electromechanical power steering system, and the double wishbone suspension; and finally to the car’s new hybrid carbon fiber and aluminum chassis.

The Huracán’s steering wheel was designed alongside a university research team to determine what locations work best for the various controls to allow the driver to perform actions quickly when needed. The new steering wheel now incorporates many of the controls normally found on a stalk such as the high-beams, turn indicators, washer/wipers, and driving mode and the in-dash display is highly customizable based on the driver preferences.

The new V10 engine cranks out 610 horsepower with lower emissions as compared to the Gallardo, the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox is designed to provide smooth operation while also allowing for race-track performance if selected, and the new four-wheel drive system is fully electronically controlled with a standard rear-to-front power ratio of 70:30 with the ability to shift the balance based on driving conditions. Reggiani explains the dynamic steering and the adjustable wishbone suspension and how the behavior of each can change as the driver selects different modes.

Finally, the new hybrid chassis is designed to be the best balance between stiffness, weight and safety. The team increased the chassis’s stiffness by 50% over the Gallardo with a 10% weight reduction as well. And the car’s aerodynamics are also improved as measured by both the drag and the car’s ability to generate downforce.

At the end of the day, the true measure of the team’s success is in the car’s performance numbers and Reggiani shows that the car’s acceleration, top speed, braking space, and on-track performance all exceed the Gallardo’s numbers. If you’re an automotive engineering junkie, Lamborghini removes the cloak and unveils all the secrets behind the Huracán LP 610-4’s incredible performance.