What makes the Sesto Elemento Concept so impressive is the widespread use of carbon fiber in places that carbon fiber components usually aren’t found. For example, the major suspension components such as the control arms are made from carbon fiber, and are 30 percent lighter than its aluminum counterparts. The wheels are also made using the lightweight and durable material. Even the propeller shaft, a component that is subjected to tremendous amounts of stress and torque, is made from CFRP. The Concept also uses a high-strength and lightweight carbon fiber monocoque cell made using Forged Composite Technology, while the front frame, exterior panels, and crash boxes are made from CFRP.
Carbon fiber wasn’t the only technology that Lamborghini used to cut weight. The exhaust is made from an advanced glass-ceramic matrix composite called Pyrosic, and is able to withstand temperatures of 900° Celsius. Even the brake discs are made of carbon-ceramic, which reduces weight and improves braking performance. The extensive use of lightweight technology results in a curb weight of only 2,202 lbs. For comparison, the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera weighs in at 2,948 lbs.
Powering the featherweight is the same V-10 engine from the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera through a permanent all-wheel drive system. Mounted “longitudinale posteriore”, the 5.2-liter V-10 produces 570 hp at 8,000 RPM and 398 lb-ft. of torque at 6,500 RPM, propelling the Sesto Elemento to 62 mph in just 2.5 seconds and to a top speed well over 186 mph. Although performance is astonishing, fuel consumption drops due to the concept’s light weight. Carbon fiber never looked so green, did it?
Although the main focus of the Sesto Elemento Concept was the widespread use of carbon fiber and lightweight materials, the new design was also a point of emphasis. The overall design is unmistakably that of Lamborghini with a wedge-shaped profile, and pure in-your-face insanity. One of the main design themes is the use of the triangles. The door handles, air outlets in the hood, and character lines all use this element to display power. The Sesto Elemento Concept also wears a unique skin of matte-shimmer clear coat, while the carbon fiber is made using Nano-technology, which adds fine crystals and create a red glow.
