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News27 June 2024 by Andreas 158 Viewed

Aspark and M.A.T. Set World Record with 438.7 kph SP600 Electric Hypercar

Aspark SP600

In a landmark achievement, the Aspark SP600, a production intent prototype hypercar, has become the world’s fastest electric hypercar, clocking a remarkable top speed of 438.7kph. This record-breaking feat was realized through the dedicated efforts of Manifattura Automobili Torino (M.A.T.) in collaboration with tire specialist Bridgestone and driven by professional racer Marc Basseng.

A Vision Realized

The Aspark SP600’s journey to this historic moment began with the vision of Aspark CEO Masanori Yoshida, whose company had previously set benchmarks with the Aspark Owl, renowned as the fastest accelerating electric hypercar. For this new project, Aspark once again partnered with M.A.T., entrusting them with the development and manufacturing of a hypercar capable of shattering the world top speed record for electric vehicles.

Collaboration and Innovation

To achieve this extraordinary speed, M.A.T. sought the expertise of Bridgestone to develop a custom-engineered tire. Bridgestone rose to the challenge with bespoke Potenza Race tires designed specifically for the SP600, ensuring they could handle speeds exceeding 420kph while managing the vehicle’s weight and driving dynamics.

The SP600 underwent rigorous testing at M.A.T.’s headquarters in Torino, Italy. This included extensive virtual and physical evaluations, wind tunnel validation, and numerous track testing sessions. M.A.T. meticulously handled the vehicle’s complete development, from powertrain and software integration to suspension and chassis design, as well as software calibration and the bespoke battery’s design and production.

Record-Breaking Achievement

On June 8th, during the second attempt of the day at Automotive Testing Papenburg, Marc Basseng flawlessly piloted the Aspark SP600 to its record-breaking speed of 438.7kph. This achievement was precisely measured using the certified Racelogic V-Box, a high-precision GPS-based device provided by the ATP proving ground.

The event was attended and supported by numerous marketing and premium partners, including the Supercar Owner Circle, who backed the attempt from its inception. Key executives from Aspark, M.A.T., and Bridgestone were present to witness this monumental accomplishment.

Statements from Key Figures

Masanori Yoshida, Aspark CEO: “It has been about 10 years since we started making the OWL Hypercar. We aimed for the world’s Fastest Acceleration car, and then attempted and achieved the top speed world record today. This technical capability inspires all involved to personal excellence and to challenge and grow in leaps and bounds into the future.”

Steven De Bock, Bridgestone VP EMEA Sales and Original Equipment:
“It was a big excitement on this first attempt for the record, which we immediately saw the potential of the cooperation between the car and tires. The whole team at Bridgestone worked extremely hard to deliver this project in such a short period, another testimonial of our technical capabilities and how we cooperate with our partners.”

Paolo Garella, M.A.T. CEO and Founder:
“This record represents a milestone in the continued growth of M.A.T., a company that today represents the best of the Italian tradition in the automotive industry. In 10 years, we have developed more than 11 full vehicle projects and we have demonstrated that with the right resources we are second to none. I am very proud of my team and also extremely happy to reach this milestone in the anniversary of the 10 years of foundation of M.A.T. A special thank you to Aspark’s CEO Mr. Masanori Yoshida for his vision, support, and trust in M.A.T., and to the Bridgestone team for taking on the challenge and supporting with their most advanced technology this record attempt.”

Exclusive Interview with Riccardo Garella

In an exclusive interview, Riccardo Garella, Sales and Marketing Manager at M.A.T., provided insights into the development process of the Aspark Owl. Watch the full interview on our YouTube channel here.

This historic achievement not only sets a new benchmark in the electric hypercar segment but also underscores the capabilities and potential of electric vehicles in pushing the boundaries of speed and performance.

the author

Andreas

Italian classic car enthusiast with German roots. Renowned as a respected figure in the classic car community, he serves as a jury member at various international concours d'elegance, including the Classic Gala Schwetzingen and Mantova. As a content creator, Andreas passionately shares his profound knowledge and appreciation for vintage automobiles. His heart beats for cars designed by Giovanni Michelotti, showcasing his discerning taste and dedication to preserving the timeless elegance of automotive history.

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history of maserati

Maserati is an all-time legend when it comes to luxury sports vehicles and is one of the most well-known brands on the planet. Founded by three brothers in Bologna, Italy in 1914, the Maserati brand has stood the test of time. Producing some of the finest cars around, the brand is best known for its luxury cars, race cars and grand tourers which all offer sleek designs, a powerful engine, and advanced technology.

While Maserati have a rich racing history, producing exclusively race cars in the early days, their expansion into luxury road cars marked the brands expansion into a wider range of markets. Today, the Italian brand is headquartered in Modena, Italy, in which the striking trident logo pays tribute to the Neptune fountain in Bologna and is a reminder of the strength and vigor of the brand and its origins.

The history of Maserati

Below, we’ll take a further look at home Maserati grew to become a distinct brand that will go down in history.

Rooted in a passion for automotive engineering, Maserati was founded by three brothers, whose father was a railroad worker. Alfieri, Ettore and Ernesto Maserati were gifted engineers and were intrigued by powerful automotive engines and the mechanics that powered them.

While the brothers initially began producing spark plugs, their activity shifted towards race cars at the end of World War I. From this point on, the legend of Maserati grown into the phenomenon it is today.

Maserati’s influence on the world stage

Today, statistics show that the US is the largest purchaser of Maseratis. In 2023, vehicle sales reached around 8,000 units, while on average the brand sells 7,500 each year in the US. For those purchasing such luxury, its vital to give the car its full glory by maintaining the vehicle and purchasing only the highest quality parts.

Maserati owners can purchase tires online at a nationwide quality store that ensures the Maserati vehicle will continue to live up to its title.

The earliest racing success

One of the earliest performance models created by the Maserati brothers was the Tipo 26 which both featured and triumphed in the 1926 Targa Florio. This significant victory marked the first success for Maserati in the race car world, signaling their great potential in competitive racing.

Since then, Maserati have gone on to feature in several Grand Prix and World Championship races. With the help of Juan Manuel Fangio, Maserati soared to success and have had many feats thanks to the excellence of Maserati combined with Fangio’s skill behind the wheel.

Aside from circuit racing, Maserati’s reach has extended to the US where they have been involved in iconic American races like the Indianapolis 500. It is here that Maserati really secured their position on the world stage, demonstrating their ability to compete and win in some of the world’s top racing events.

The latest Maserati models

As of 2024, Maserati produce sports cars, SUV’s and luxury Sedans. Some of their top models currently include the GranCabrio, described as a balance of tradition and innovation. The car also features a racer style cockpit, the Maserati Intelligence Assistant (MIA), and the most impressive hand-crafted features, from next level sound, to a 571 HP, and 2.7 second acceleration.

Other top models include the MC20, which is a super sports car that pushes the boundaries of time. As one of the most exotic models in the range, the MC20 features perfectly sculptured engineering, as well as a sleek and elegant, yet muscular build.

Overall Maserati is one of the strongest automotive brands on the planet and has an unshakable presence across the globe. From their one of a kind, powerful and always successful race cars, to their luxury road models that take every day driving to a whole new level, nothing quite beats the elegance and vigor of the Maserati brand.

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