RML’s Short Wheelbase Car Features Carbon Composite Body
RML’s Short Wheelbase Car Zero will soon be tested and moved into production. The vehicle features a V12 engine and an innovative carbon composite body with styling based on the Ferrari 250 GT SWB.
The body of the Short Wheelbase car features two main “clams” designed of carbon composites and affixed to the vehicle’s chassis, providing rigidity and strength for safety. With the rear “clam” weighing only 40kg, the vehicle is also lightweight, maximizing on-road performance.
The design of the vehicle is showcased by an intense painting and finishing process. Layers of a special carbon primer, then a standard primer and a silver base coat will provide a lustrous bright blue finish. Some carbon fiber components of the vehicle, such as interior sections of the door, remain unpainted, allowing the carbon composite to show through a clear carbon primer and smoked carbon lacquer. Ben Amos, manufacturing engineer for the Short Wheelbase program explained, “We just want to remind owners of the high-end materials that go into this car. And while we’ve chosen a 60 per cent gloss for these exposed parts, it will be clear that they are the real deal.”
The RML Short Wheelbase 6-speed manual car will boast 478 hp and 419 lb-ft of torque in an engine that powers the vehicle from 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of over 185 mph. Looks and power are not all the vehicle offers. Climate control, navigation, smartphone connectivity, and even cupholders are included.
“Having a fully painted body-on-chassis with engine installed is a real landmark in the Short Wheelbase’s birth,’ Michael Mallock CEO of RML explained. “This first example will now be completed by next month, ready for the industry-standard test schedule we have planned. But it’s also given us the green light to start build of our customer cars, which makes the whole programme very real all of a sudden!’
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