Hennessey Special Vehicles has revealed more information about the forthcoming Venom F5 hypercar.
A successor to the Venom GT, the new mid-engined F5 is said to deliver ‘peerless performance’, and a driving experience ‘unmatched’ by anything else.
Although only 24 examples will be built, Hennessey states that a right-hand drive layout will be an option for buyers.
Perfect, for UK drivers who need an 1,800 hp American sports car adding to their garage.
More than 300 mph is possible here
At the heart of the mid-engined Venom F5 is a 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine. A bespoke Hennessey creation branded the ‘Fury’, it is claimed to be the most powerful production engine in the world.
Peak output is an outrageous 1,817 hp, with torque an equally huge 1,193-lb ft.
Sending all of this to the rear wheels is seven-speed paddle shift transmission, with gearing to let the Venom F5 hit a top speed of 311 mph. The 0-62 mph sprint will take just 2.7 seconds.
Such epic performance gives the Venom its name. ‘F5’ is the highest category on the Fujita tornado intensity rating scale, with wind speeds of up to 318 mph.
Added lightness throughout
Unlike the previous Venom GT, which used a modified Lotus Exige chassis, the F5 will be all bespoke construction. This includes a carbon fibre monocoque chassis, with the same lightweight material used for body panels and interior components.
Making use of so much carbon fibre has helped Hennessey keep the weight relatively low.
Tipping the scales at 1,385 kg, the UK-built monocoque chassis contributes just 90 kg to the overall kerb weight.
The result is a ridiculous power-to-weight ratio of almost 1,300 hp per ton.
Engage F5 Mode
Hennessey is keen for the Venom F5 to not simply be a straight line drag racer. The company has worked with John Heinricy, a former Director of GM High Performance Vehicles, and a man who holds several land speed records.
Heinricy has cited the Porsche Cayman GT4 and McLaren 600LT as his automotive benchmarks. His goal for the F5 has been to deliver ‘feedback-rich responses’ along with ‘driving confidence at all speeds’.
Carbon ceramic brakes, forged aluminium wheels, and lightweight suspension dampers all help. As do the vast 345/30-20 rear wheels, which will wear Michelin Pilot Cup Sport 2 tyres – once suitably tested.
Five driving modes are included, offering options for ‘Drag’ and ‘Wet’ conditions. The top ‘F5’ Mode will unleash maximum power from the engine.
Fighter jet luxury
Unlike the earlier Venom GT, the new F5 packs a more luxurious and technologically advanced interior. The design has been inspired by fighter jets, with the cockpit accessed through butterfly doors.
Raw carbon fibre trim is matched with leather detailing, whilst the steering wheel itself borrows its design from an aeroplane yoke.
A 7-inch digital instrument panel adapts depending on the drive mode selected. Also included is a 9-inch multimedia touchscreen, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Both driver and passenger will get a reminder of where the Venom comes from, with Texas and US flags depicted in the aluminium inserts on the door handles.
Big money, small build numbers
Only 24 examples of the Venom F5 will be built, with all set to be assembled by Hennessey in Texas. The bespoke process of making each F5 means that the company can offer right-hand drive, unlike many other hypercar alternatives.
Buying a Venom F5 will not be cheap, however. Prices begin at $2.1 million (£1.54 million) even before taxes are added.
Despite the fearsome cost, Hennessey already has interest in half of the planned cars to be built.
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