If there’s one thing that all Lamborghinis know how to do, it’s make an entrance…
2021 Lamborghini Sian Roadster
Engine: 6.5 litre V12 with supercapacitor
Transmission: 7 speed semi-automatic
Power: 610 kW
Torque: 561 lb-ft
Top Speed: 349 km/h
0-100km/h: 2.9 seconds
Price: $5 million +
The latest model in their arsenal is the Sian Roadster — an open-top hybrid that is the industry’s first use of a supercapacitor in a supercar. Similar to something Doc Brown would install in the Delorean.
Lambo’s familiar naturally aspirated 6.5 litre V12 has once again been called upon. This time around, it receives assistance from a 48-volt electric motor that provides an additional 34 horsepower on top of the V12’s 785 horses.
The lithium-ion battery pack, however, has been dismissed in favour of a supercapacitor. Located between the cockpit and engine it stores 10 times the power and ensures a power-to-weight ratio of 1.0 kg/hp. The design is inspired by the legendary Countach from the 1980s, with the front integrated carbon fibre splitter hosting Lamborghini’s unmistakable Y-shaped head lights. Oro Electrum, the colour that symbolises the Sian Roadster’s electric prowess is used again, while customers can have their initials engraved forever in the 3D-printed air vents. As the sister to last year’s Sian coupe, Lambo designers didn’t just slice-off the roof and call it a day. Lamborghini patented a new technology for the rear end’s cooling vanes and rear wing that are activated by the temperature of the exhaust system.
Like the Aventador S, which it shares its platform and engine, the Sian Roadster’s interior design is jet-fighter inspired, but unlike the Aventador, the competition here is limited. There’s the Ferrari SF90 Stradale, though it has a twin-turbo V8 paired to three electric motors instead of a naturally aspirated V12.
In a world adjusting to a new normal, Lamborghini’s latest may be proving the theory of evolution correct. Just 19 are being produced — but only billionaires, Instagram rich kids and anyone else with a spare $5 million need test drive.
By Bill Varetimidis
For the full article grab the January 2021 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.
