After the all important Chinese launch of the F12 at the Beijing motor show, Ferrari has released details of its new HY-KERS hybrid drivetrain. Ferrari says that the main objective behind the system is to increase overall power, while at the same time reducing CO2 emissions - sticking to a '1KW per kg of extra weight' ethos.
Ferrari's V12 engine utilises a dual-clutch gearbox, which is coupled to a pair of electric motors. Technological advances from F1 were fundamental to the design, engineering and construction of the system, especially with torque management, traction control, brake distribution and energy capture.
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The first motor, which is connected to the gearbox, delivers the extra power to the wheels while the second independent motor re-captures lost kinetic energy during braking. The result is instantaneous, continuous power delivery between the electric motor and petrol engine.
Amedeo Felisa, CEO of Ferrari had the following to say about the new hybrid system: 'As you know HY-KERS for us is a research plan in order to prepare Ferrari in terms of knowledge and systems for future hybrid cars - which will probably be needed in order to meet ever increasing CO2 restrictions. What we are presenting today is the powertrain of a certain future model. Increasing performance and at the same time reducing CO2 emissions is one of the biggest priorities at the moment. The HY-KERS project has a lot of new technology inside, because as usual, Ferrari wants to stay ahead of the curve in every field.'
