The latest addition to Ferrari’s One-Off series, the one-of-a-kind Ferrari Unica SP48 is built on the F8 Tributo V8 Twin-Turbo chassis. Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre under the direction of chief design officer Flavio Manzoni, the Ferrari Unica SP48 is instantly recognisable as derived from the original Tributo thanks to its taut lines and aggressive stance, while putting a twist on the arrow-shaped front profile by relocating the brake air intakes and redesigning the headlights.
By employing procedural-parametric modelling techniques and 3D prototyping, the Ferrari Styling Centre was able to completely redesign the front grille and engine air intakes, creating grilles with sweeping graphics that appear to be carved from a singular block of metal. The Ferrari Unica SP48 makes a seamless transition from black — on the windows, roof, and engine cover — to the burnt red body colour. The sharp visor effect in the front is amplified by the size reduction of the side windows and elimination of the rear screen.
Managing cooling requirements while delivering a different aerydynamic balance was part and parcel of the design of the Ferrari Unica SP48. Compared to the original F8 Tributo, the key changes present in the Unica SP48 come in the form of air intakes on the front bumper and beneath the rear spoiler to manage heat, as well as an intercooler intake behind the side windows, allowing for the Ferrari Styling Centre engineers to reduce the dimension of the intakes on the flanks. The longer rear overhand reduces suction from the roof area, boosting rear downforce.
While it retains the technical specs of the F8 Tributo, the cabin interiors are designed with the identify of the experior work in mind. Colour and trim were selection to reflect the sleek, sport, and dressive personality of the SP48 Unica, with black laser-perforated Alcantara on the seats which reveal hints of an iridescent reddish-orange fabric that match the exterior body colour. Matte carbon fibre dominates the cockpit, complemented by Grigio Canna di Fucile accents.
Created for a long-term client who was heavily involved in the design process, the Ferrari SP48 Unica pays homage to a classic model while taking its racing origins to the next level. A truly one-of-a-kind car.
Words by Theo Rosen
