Hot on the heels of the lightweight Gallardo Superleggera and the new Reventon come reports that the supercar manufacturer is planning a lightweight SV version of its Murcielago model.

UK TV Channel 4’s Car website reports the new model will be more powerful than the new Murcielago-based Reventon. Apparently it will be rear-wheel-drive only, giving substantial weight savings as well as different handling characteristics (traction control will be added) and it will be trimmed in a similar way to the Gallardo Superleggera. Aside from an aluminium roof and doors, its panels are already carbon-fibre, but more carbon-fibre will be used to trim the cabin, saving weight in the seats, door panels and centre tunnel. It may even have leather pull-straps in place of inner door handles and have its stereo deleted (but available as an optional-fit item).

In place of the automatically-lowering rear spoiler will be a choice of two carbon-fibre rear wings and ultra-lightweight forged alloys; further weight savings will be made by replacing some aluminium components with lighter-yet magnesium. The e-gear transmission system will come as standard. Power output from the 6.5-litre V12 is thought to be as much as 680bhp, with 515lb-ft of torque – and, at a weight estimated to be around 1,530-1,565kg, it will be quick. Lamborghini is expected to homologate the car for the FIA GT championships.

09 December 2007