Travelling at 300km/h with no roof and no windscreen has to be asking for trouble. But with the new Lamborghini Aventador J that's what's on the cards - so long as, according to Lamborghini, "drivers have the right equipment". Frankly that can only mean a pair of massive...
Regardless of what's between your legs, this Geneva show car from Italy's maddest manufacturer is the most radical open model in its history, all thanks to extensive use of carbon fibre and that 700hp 6.5-litre V12 engine. Combined with a lower kerb weight than the Aventador it's based on, permanent four-wheel drive and the ISR gearbox, performance is set to be mind-blowing.
Based on the Aventador it may be, but this J is actually radically different. The carbon fibre reinforced monocoque has been redesigned and now incorporates roll over protection behind the seats. The lightweight material features throughout the body too, with a fixed rear wing and special aerodynamic aids on the newly-designed bumpers increasing downforce both front and rear. Even the 20-inch front and 21-inch rear alloy wheels use a carbon fibre insert, designed to aid brake cooling.
And like the special red paint - with chrome effect - the weave flows all the way through the cabin. The seats are made of it, while a new technology called 'Carbonskin' keeps the weave soft and supple, meaning it can be moulded throughout the cockpit. Stripped out with no air conditioning, satnav or audio system, occupants only have small aeroscreens to protect them. A periscope style rear-view mirror occupies the space between and is the highest point on the 1,110mm tall show car, while the thinner doors continue with tradition and open upwards.
Unmistakably a Lamborghini, this one-off is still road-legal and the firm has committed to selling it at the show. It'll be easy to tell who's bought it - just look for the man walking like John Wayne.