Progress is inevitable, so we’ll be the first to deliver the bad news: at some point in the not-too-distant future, most sports cars and exotics will utilize some kind of hybrid drive propulsion system. Unlike hybrids of today, expect the next generation hybrid drive systems to add performance benefits, instead of just adding weight and complexity. They’ll ultimately reduce fuel consumption, too, which is the goal of almost all hybrid drive systems.
At this week’s Beijing Auto Show, Ferrari is highlighting its HY-KERS 2012 hybrid drive system, believed to be heading for production in the Ferrari Enzo successor. If you’re familiar with hybrid systems already, there isn’t much new to see here, since the same basic formula of generator, batteries, controller and drive motor applies.
Ferrari has found a way to make the system more compact (and presumably lighter), which will ultimately help with acceleration, braking and handling. Battery packs are located as low as possible to lower the car’s center of gravity; better yet. they can be positioned to help achieve an ideal 50/50 front to rear weight distribution.
Based on Ferrari’s own numbers, the HY-KERS 2012 system is capable of delivering a 40-percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions compared to an internal combustion engine with the same power output. Emissions and fuel economy are two critical design factors to automakers of all sizes these days, so don’t be surprised when similar hybrid systems begin to appear on more mainstream performance cars. Ultimately it’s more oa matter of when GM builds a hybrid Camaro Z/28, not if.
Kurt Ernst has been passionate about automobiles and driving nearly his entire life. His early years were shaped working in the family service station, though his real passion was auto racing. After graduating from the University of Colorado, Kurt spent a year club racing with the Sports Car Club of America, before focusing on a business career in marketing and project management. Later, his passion for writing and the automotive hobby found him freelancing for a variety of automotive news sites, including Automotive Addicts and Motor Authority, where his work was syndicated and appeared in several national publications. Recognized as an expert in the automotive field, Kurt joined Hemmings Motor News as an Associate Editor in 2013, and in the years since has progressed to Editor, Hemmings Daily; Managing Editor for Hemmings Motor News, Hemmings Classic Car, Hemmings Muscle Machines, and the Hemmings Daily; and now, Managing Editor, Hemmings Auctions. Kurt was instrumental in organizing the Hemmings Motor News Concours d’Elegance from 2013-2019, and has served as a judge at this event and The Vintage Racing Stable Concours d’Elegance. A Skip Barber Racing School graduate and prolific writer, Ernst is also skilled in copyediting, project management, brand development, and public relations.
