Ferrari Superamerica : 2005

Ferrari has taken the wraps off its upcoming, Pininfarina-penned Ferrari Superamerica, which combines 12-cylinder performance with a unique take on the convertible concept.

The limited-edition Ferrari will debut at the upcoming Los Angeles and Detroit Auto Shows in January of 2005.

The Superamerica is the first production car to combine a rearward rotating roof with electrochromic technology developed for the top's glass surfaces.

Iindustrial materials giant Saint Gobain helped develop the electrochromic glass, which allows the driver to control the level of light entering the cockpit. Five tint levels are available and the glass can go from dark to light in under a minute at the touch of a button.

The glass combines with a Fioravanti-patented rotating roof with a rearward rotation movement, dubbed "Revocromico" by Ferrari, that electrically drops in 10 seconds flat, according to the automaker. It has a carbon-fiber structure and the boot capacity remains unchanged open or closed. The glass rear window also acts as wind deflector when the roof is retracted.

Based on the 575M Maranello, the Superamerica will be available with either an F1-style or manual gearbox. Its 12-cylinder engine has been boosted to deliver 540 hp. The new car can also be ordered with Ferrari's GTC Handling package, which includes features such as carbon ceramic brakes.

(source: Autoweek)