Assignment 1b - Reader Respond (Summary) Draft 4

The Lamborghini official webpage (n.d.) introduced the new Lamborghini Huracán STO (Super Trofeo Omologata) on 18 November 2020. The Lamborghini Huracán STO features a unique design engineered for competitive racetrack and street-road purposes compared to its predecessor in the Huracán series. What makes this track-oriented road-homologated super sports car unique lies within the brake system of Huracán STO. According to Lamborghini (2021), the system incorporates a cutting-edge Brembo carbon-ceramic material-racing (CCM-R) design. This distinctive CCM-R design was derived from Formula 1 racing technology, which offers superior quality in durability compared to the traditional carbon-ceramic brakes (CCB) commonly found in other high-performance vehicles. Furthermore, according to Lamborghini (n.d.), the brake systems also incorporate a new front brake cooling duct to assist in dissipating the heat from the brake disc during intense track sessions. In addition, the braking system also features sophisticated electronic monitoring systems that enable drivers to monitor the brake system condition and manage the wear of the brake. With such advanced technology installed, the braking system of the Huracán STO empowers drivers to enjoy a track-like experience on the road with enhanced comfort and confidence. The synergy of the system's components ensures swift and efficient braking without compromising performance or safety during racetrack manoeuvres or regular road stops.

 

A distinctive feature of the Lamborghini Huracán STO brake system that stands out is the unique brake disc. According to Lamborghini (2021), the Brembo CCM-R disc brakes offer a magnificent improvement in performance, boasting four times in thermal conductivity and a 60% boost towards stress resistance compared to traditional disc brakes. Furthermore, the disc brake could also deliver a substantial 25% improvement in maximum braking force compared to traditional CCB systems and a 7% enhancement in longitudinal deceleration. These advancements in the brake discs significantly enhance the cost-effectiveness and prolong the lifespan of high-performance vehicles such as the Huracán STO over the long term.

 

In addition, the system also incorporates a unique tire design to enhance its efficiency. According to motoring media, Torque (Lam et al., 2021), Huracán paired with the stock Bridgestone Potenza Sports tires are capable of delivering an outstanding braking performance in producing a complete stop from a speed of 100km/h within a range of 30 meters. The complementation of these tires paired with the braking system empowers drivers with precise control at lower speeds, preventing the experience of sudden and aggressive braking forces. At the same time, this outstanding performance also aids drivers in efficiently cornering on the racetrack.

 

Another distinctive element of this braking system is the innovative front cooling duct. According to a review of the Lamborghini Huracán STO (Lyon, 2021), the cooling duct is engineered to efficiently dissipate heat from the brake discs and calipers, especially during intense track sessions. It ensures the brake discs operate at peak performance levels consistently with minimal to zero brake fade. In addition to these air-cooling duct features, the system also incorporates a unique and advanced electronic monitoring technology known as Brake Temperature Monitoring (BTM). According to Lamborghini (n.d.), the BTM employs a unique estimation algorithm, enabling drivers to continuously monitor the brake system temperature and effectively manage wear over its lifespan. The incorporation of such technology holds the potential to extend the longevity and overall utility of the brake system.

 

Despite such cutting-edge technology, the braking systems also have certain drawbacks. Even though the brake system is engineered to deliver better efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness, the Brembo CCM-R brake disc, in terms of maintenance, shares some similarities with the traditional CCB brake discs. They are relatively expensive to replace. According to Brembo (2022), the discs incorporate premium fasteners and exceptionally robust materials. Moreover, the disc manufacturing process involves multiple complex stages, requiring specialized workers and equipment. Furthermore, the discs' production quantities are also limited, thus resulting in a steep price tag.

 

Additionally, the effectiveness of the brake system relies on specific tire usage. Hence, any deviation made may potentially yield unexpected outcomes. According to Bridgestone (De Bock,2021), the tires of the Huracán STO are meticulously engineered and manufactured by Bridgestone to excel for both track and road. Being the sole tire supplier implies that any deviation from these custom-made tires could adversely affect the braking system performance and cost-effectiveness in maintenance.

 

In conclusion, the Lamborghini Huracán STO's braking systems represent a masterpiece in advanced braking technology in high-performance vehicles. The synergy of innovations like CCM-R discs, cooling duct design, and advanced electronic monitoring ensures efficient performance with minimal wear during intense tracking sessions consistently. While tire choice and maintenance costs influence system performance, drivers' usage holds the key to maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, it also sets a model for future advanced braking systems in high-performance automobiles and their potential for improvement.

References

Brembo. (2022, January 21). Jason Fenske explains why carbon ceramic discs are so expensive. https://www.brembo.com/en/company/news/jason-fenske-explains-why-carbon-ceramic-discs-are-so-expensive

De Bock, S. (2021, July 20). Bridgestone Partners with Lamborghini to Develop Custom Potenza Race Tire for Huracán STO Supercar. https://www.bridgestoneamericas.com/en/press-release-details.en.2021.bridgestone-selected-oe-lamborghini-huracan-sto

Lam, A., Chan, D., & Ming, F. (2021, December 25). Lamborghini Huracán STO review: A breed apart. Torque. https://www.torque.com.sg/reviews/lamborghini-huracan-sto-review-a-breed-apart/

Lamborghini. (n.d.). Racetrack to road: the new Lamborghini Huracán STO. https://preview.thenewsmarket.com/Previews/lamb/DocumentAssets/572482_v2.pdf

Lamborghini. (2021, October 5). Huracán STO: New CCM-R Braking System. Lamborghini.com. https://www.lamborghini.com/en-en/news/huracan-sto-new-ccm-r-braking-system

Lyon, P. (2021, November 8). 2021 Lamborghini Huracán STO Review. Yanko Design. https://www.yankodesign.com/2021/11/08/lamborghini-huracan-sto-review/