Ferrari SP48 Unica is newest in brand's exclusive One-Off series

MANILA: The Ferrari SP48 Unica is the newest addition to the Prancing Horse's One-Off series, and it joins the most exclusive group in Maranello's entire production: one-of-a-kind, completely bespoke cars designed to the specific requirements of a single client and crafted as a true expression of their own unique attributes.

The SP48 Unica is a two-seater sports berlinetta built on the F8 Tributo platform by the Ferrari Styling Center under the supervision of Chief Design Officer Flavio Manzoni. Its sleek lines and aggressive attitude make it easily recognizable in comparison to the original model, and its arrow-shaped front profile makes it distinct. The modification of the headlamps and subsequent repositioning of the brake air intakes were key to obtaining this effect.

The substantial use of procedural-parametric modeling techniques and 3D prototyping (additive manufacturing) in the creation of this unique car allowed the Ferrari Styling Center designers and Maranello's engineers to totally rework the front grille and engine air intakes. This innovative production process generated precise 3D grilles that appear to be chiseled from a solid volume, giving the impression of seamless continuity and fluid movement.

The SP48 Unica's overall design is influenced by the procedural graphic solutions used on the bodywork: the transition from black  which includes the windows, roof, and engine cover — to the body color is notably evident. The muscularity of the SP48 Unica is highlighted by the decrease in the size of the side windows and the absence of the rear screen, emphasizing the dramatic visor effect of the front.

The central portion of the roof, which features a visual representation of the air intakes fitted into the rear part of the carbon-fiber engine cover before the rear wing, is highlighted in the plan view. This view highlights the sophisticated interplay of symmetries and crossing lines formed by the SP48 Unica's shapes, as well as the style research that went into it.

The thermal-fluid-dynamic design of the SP48 Unica has been refined and improved to ensure that it meets all cooling requirements while also providing a unique aerodynamic balance. The air intakes for cooling airflow for the engine on the front bumper and under the rear spoiler are the most noticeable differences from the F8 Tributo's appearance. Every segment of the deep procedural grille is precisely oriented to maximize the amount of air moving through. The car's design also allowed engineers to place an intercooler intake just behind the side windows, helping them reduce the size of the flank intakes. The longer rear overhang minimizes roof suction, increasing rear downforce.

Despite the fact that the cabin keeps the F8 Tributo's technical identity — with the exception of the rear screen — the SP48 Unica's stylish, athletic, and aggressive attitude was achieved through rigorous development work. The seats and most of the cabin trim are made of a specially made black laser-perforated Alcantara, with glimpses of glossy reddish-orange fabric that matches the exterior color. Its design is inspired by the hexagonal grilles and the procedural livery on the roof, producing a pleasing sense of continuity between the interior and exterior of the car. Meanwhile, the cockpit is designed with polished sill covers featuring the same laser-embossed hexagonal motif.

The one-off Ferrari SP48 Unica is a dramatic interpretation of a sports car that skillfully boosts its racing personality and zeal for speed. It was created for a long-standing client who was deeply involved throughout its construction. The SP48 Unica fulfills its mission of masterfully changing an existing model, drawing on and paying tribute to the company's essential qualities of innovation and passion.

Photos from Ferrari

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