It's been teased and taunted, and now it's here, the Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 limited-edition, track-only hypercar, fitted with the most powerful naturally aspirated V12 ever developed by the iconic Italian brand. A direct descendant of cars such as the Miura Jota and Diablo GTR, the Essenza SCV12 features aerodynamics inspired by racing prototypes.

“The Essenza SCV12 represents the purest track driving experience that our brand can offer, an engineering feat that highlights the inextricable link between our cars and the asphalt of the track,” said Stefano Domenicali, CEO and chairman of Automobili Lamborghini.

Gallery: Lamborghini Essenza SCV12

“Lamborghini is a brand constantly looking to the future and searching for new challenges, but we never forget our roots and who we are: Essenza SCV12 is the perfect combination of our unconventional spirit as a super sportscar manufacturer and our true passion for motorsport.”

The Essenza SCV12 was created for exclusive track use, with engineering solutions derived from racing. The V12 engine is able to deliver over 818 bhp (830 PS / 610 kilowatts), with a significant power uplift from a ram effect at high speeds.

The power is handled by a new X-trac sequential six-speed gearbox, positioned as a structural element within the chassis. The Essenza SCV12 features an exceptional power-to-weight ratio of 1.66 hp per kilogram thanks to the new-generation carbon fibre monocoque chassis that doesn't need an internal rollcage. In spite of its absence, the Essenza SCV12 is the first GT car developed in accordance with FIA prototype safety rules, a testament to the carbon fibre chassis' inherent strength.

"Essenza SCV12 is the ultimate expression of the V12 naturally aspirated engine, the symbol of our brand since 1963," says Maurizio Reggiani, chief technical officer of Automobili Lamborghini. "It is a project in which we combined the pursuit of engineering perfection with refined aerodynamics, futuristic design, and innovative solutions such as the carbon monocoque without internal rollcage.

“The result is an engaging and uncompromising car, born to race and to showcase on the track the characteristics that have made Lamborghini famous worldwide, guaranteeing unique and special emotions for both the driver and onlookers.”

The aerodynamics benefit from Lamborghini Squadra Corse’s GT racing experience to ensure higher downforce levels than a GT3 car, with a value of 1,200 kg (2,756 pounds) at 155 miles per hour (250 kilometres per hour).

New driving experience

Essenza SCV12 customers will become part of an exclusive club that will give them access to special programs to drive their hypercar on the most prestigious circuits in the world. The program includes storage service in a new hangar built in Sant’Agata Bolognese for the Essenza SCV12 club. Each car will have a personalised garage and dedicated resources, including webcams to allow customers to monitor their cars 24 hours a day using an app.

Lamborghini Essence SCV12
Lamborghini Essence SCV12
Lamborghini Essence SCV12

The facility also houses the “Lamborghini Squadra Corse Drivers Lab” by Tecnobody to offer athletic training programs similar to those followed by the official Lamborghini racing drivers.

The track calendar will start in 2021 with “arrive and drive” events held at numerous FIA Grade 1 homologated circuits. Assistance will be provided by the Squadra Corse technical staff with the support of Emanuele Pirro, five-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and Marco Mapelli, Lamborghini Squadra Corse factory driver.

Lamborghini Essence SCV12

Giorgio Sanna, Head of Lamborghini Motorsport, said: “With Essenza SCV12 we wanted to elevate not only performance and driving pleasure but also the experience off the track. Customers can take advantage of exclusive and highly customisable services to fully experience the best of Italian hospitality and become part of the Lamborghini Squadra Corse family.”