Case Study: Lamborghini
Here at European Springs we’re proud members of the Lesjöfors Group and have been since 2007, providing us with invaluable access to a global group of more than 20 manufacturing companies. Lesjöfors worked in close cooperation with Öhlins Racing to help develop innovative chassis motor springs for the 2012 Lamborghini’s hypercar, the Aventador LP700-4.
Characterised by its modern design and lightweight technology, the Lamborghini Aventador was unveiled in March of 2011 at the Geneva motor show. Considered the beginning of a new generation of sports cars, the Aventador has the highest power-to-weight ratio of any vehicle in its class, showcasing a 6.5 litre V12 engine that produced 700hp that allows for 0 to 62mph (or 0 to 100km/h) in 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 217mph (or 350km/h). The Lamborghini Aventador is estimated at a value of 324,000.
In close collaboration with Öhlins Racing, Lesjöfors designed two different springs for the front and rear of the vehicle, with the diverse demands of the shock absorption system in mind; these were also required to comply with the standards set by the Volkswagen Group. Employing a new type of lifting system for levelling the front of the car, the springs needed additional requirements in their design to withstand the Aventador’s innovative systems.
The designed front and rear springs were created with specific stiffness, as the chassis springs provide the vehicle with the exceptional driving qualities the brand is known for, as it simultaneously manages the loads transferred from the wheels into the vehicle.
With the Aventador, the springs are open and non-ground with unusual end fittings. They have a shim composed of rubber between the springs and the spring seats to prevent noise. Through the glass back bonnet both the springs and the dampers are plainly seen.
The spring manufacturing was carried out in Lesjöfors, Sweden, and the comprehensive 28 page long document of specified requirements was the focus for the design process and for testing of these bespoke springs. The entire procedure of teamwork with Öhlins Racing was a close, two-and-a-half year process that carried out wide-ranging tests to ensure the springs had corrosion and fatigue strength resistance. Some steps of the project required both extremely short manufacturing processes and deliveries, and Lesjöfors successfully delivered a high quality product, up to the required standards of the partnership and of Lesjöfors themselves.
According to the Project Manager for the Lamborghini damper at Öhlins Racing, Rade Catovic, Öhlins Racing were highly satisfied with our cooperation with Lesjöfors. Quick responses and innovative problem solving are qualities we have experienced and appreciated much in our contacts with the company.
Showcasing the impressive expertise of the Lesjöfors Group, the Lamborghini collaboration is an excellent example of the innovative designs European Springs believes in and manufactures. Through our Tate Modern and our Liberty in London case studies, our highly skilled engineers surpassed the requirements and demonstrated our leading skill in spring manufacturing. Don’t hesitate to contact us to know more about our services.
You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter to see our latest news and updates.
European Springs