Maybach Exelero helps test tyre technologies

IT IS black, lean and mean and sure to attract plenty of interest – the $8 million Maybach Exelero.

Fresh from its podium at the recent Frankfurt motor show, and an outing at the recent Bathurst 1000, the two-seater V12 biturbo roadster is a unique custom model produced for Fulda Reifenwerke, which is using the Excelero as a reference vehicle for a newly developed generation of tyres.

The V12 develops 515kW at 5000rpm and 1020Nm from 2500rpm, and initial testing on the high-speed Nardo test track in Italy showed the car could reach 351.45km/h.

Based on the mechanical architecture of the Maybach 57, but wider and longer, Exelero embodies the highest expression to date of Maybach individualisation.

Despite its large frontal area, the car has a streamlined shape that helps reduce its drag coefficient to a low 0.27.

The Exelero was built by the prototype specialists at Stola in Turin. As yet there are no plans for production, even though there has been plenty of interest from cashed-up enthusiasts.

Visitors to the Australian International Motor Show at Sydney's Darling Harbour this week can glimpse the Exelero in all its glory.