In an exhilarating revelation from New Zealand, the Rodin FZero is poised to redefine the boundaries of automotive performance, claiming to be faster than a Formula 1 car. This extraordinary single-seater boasts an impressive 1500bhp, engineered by the innovative team at Rodin Cars, headed by entrepreneur David Dicker. The FZero is not just a dream; it is a tangible product of extensive investment and advanced technology, developed at Rodin’s state-of-the-art facility on the South Island, which includes a racetrack, pit garages, and cutting-edge production capabilities.
Dicker’s ambition to create a car that surpasses the speed of F1 has roots in his longstanding passion for motorsport. “I always wanted to build a car quicker than an F1,” he explained during a recent tour of the Rodin facility. The FZero is the culmination of years of refinement and engineering prowess, originating from the re-engineered T125 project acquired from Lotus.
The design of the FZero is as remarkable as its performance specs. It features an aerodynamic chassis that generates an astounding 4000 kg of downforce at 186 mph. This level of downforce, coupled with a bespoke 4-liter V10 twin-turbocharged engine, allows the FZero to achieve unparalleled grip and speed on the track. The engine, designed in-house, is capable of delivering up to 1600 horsepower, a figure that positions the FZero squarely in the realm of elite racing machines.
Attention to detail is paramount in the FZero’s construction. The vehicle employs advanced materials, including a carbon chassis and 3D-printed titanium components, enhancing both performance and weight efficiency. Dicker explained that the goal is to produce a vehicle weighing around 698 kg, significantly lighter than current F1 cars, which weigh approximately 798 kg.
The FZero’s design incorporates aerodynamic principles that enhance airflow and minimize drag. Features such as an active rear wing, inboard suspension, and strategically placed radiators contribute to its superb handling and thermal management. The meticulous engineering extends even to the wheels, which are forged magnesium, mirroring the specifications of F1 racing equipment.
Inside the cockpit, the commitment to driver comfort and control is evident. The FZero includes air conditioning—an unusual feature for such a high-performance vehicle—ensuring that drivers can maintain focus even in extreme conditions. The dashboard is equipped with three screens, providing crucial performance data, while a sophisticated control system allows for adjustments in brake bias and differential settings, contributing to a customizable driving experience.
As Rodin Cars moves closer to production, the company aims to manufacture around 30 units, positioning the FZero as a competitor to high-end performance cars like the McLaren P1. Though the market for such exclusive vehicles is niche, Dicker is optimistic about the interest from wealthy automotive enthusiasts. His ambition is to not only prove the capabilities of the FZero but also to inspire a new standard in motorsport engineering.
The Rodin FZero represents a bold step into the future of automotive performance, challenging the established norms of speed and engineering. As the project progresses, the world watches with anticipation, eager to see if this New Zealand marvel can indeed rival the fastest lap times in Formula 1, potentially reshaping the landscape of high-performance racing.