The mid-engine powertrain, designed by HWA for the EF7, has a 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V8 racing engine that runs up to 9,000rpm to put out 600hp. Torque of 420Nm is reached at 6,000rpm. The sequential gearbox itself is an integral part of the vehicle structure and helps accomplish a minimum car weight.
Read more: Gallery: Fittipaldi EF7 Vision Gran Turismo by Pininfarina
The EF7 exceeds the FIA safety standards, with a carbon monocoque and integrated roll structure. The interior, also designed by Pininfarina, has two seats with six-point racing harnesses. The seats are not adjustable, but the steering column and pedal box are. The steering wheel with shift paddles even has a quick release system so it can be removed when getting in and out of the car.
A racing display puts up all relevant information and instead of an interior rearview mirror, the EF7 uses a rearview camera with a corresponding display. Polycarbonate windows also reduce the weight of this 1,000kg car. While an integrated adjustable rear wing, adjustable anti-roll bars, race brakes and race suspension, plus adjustable traction control and ABS makes the EF7 potentially capable of being handled by both professional and non-pro drivers.
Fittipaldi has long wanted to produce a track-racing car for drivers of all skill levels. “I have tried for years to explain to others what it feels like to be behind the steering wheel of a championship racecar. This is what our team created in the EF7 Vision Gran Turismo by Pininfarina,” he said.
Italian design company Pininfarina designed the Fittipaldi EF7 to resemble a sharkAlex Howe