The first right hand VUHL 05 drive example has passed its IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) test with flying colours and will be seen on UK’s and European roads.
The VUHL 05 first hit the headlines at the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it was campaigned in the annual hill climb by Mexican-born F1 ace Esteban Gutiérrez.
Born of motorsport heritage and weighing in at just 695kg, the VUHL is powered by a mid- mounted 285bhp version of Ford’s award-winning 2.0-litre, DOHC turbocharged EcoBoost engine, which endows it with a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio of 400bhp per ton – sufficient for a 0-60mph time of 3.5 seconds and top speed of over 150mph. Designed and built in Mexico, the 05 nevertheless has a truly international specification and 40 percent of its components are sourced from the UK.
The high-tech chassis comprises a three-section bonded tub constructed from aluminium extrusions and aluminium honeycomb – aerospace technology that provides the 05 with a remarkably high level of torsional rigidity for optimum handling. Bolted direct to the passenger cell is a chrome-moly steel subframe housing the engine and rear suspension.
A three-stage forward crash structure and double layer sidewalls provide a matchless level of protection for the occupants. The standard body is made from GRP, but carbon fibre is an attractive option – it saves over 30kg in weight and the exposed parts can be configured to taste. The sophisticated aero features include a flat underbody, front and lateral splitters, rear diffuser and rear spoiler.
“We are obviously extremely happy to have entered full-scale production with our 05 model, and experienced the delight of our first customer. 2014 was a consolidation year for us, during which we concentrated on appointing dealers, obtaining homologation in various countries and taking orders from around the world. We are now ready to sell the car in earnest,.” said VUHL Technical Director Iker Echeverria.
“It is naturally very rewarding to have a bank of orders for Mexico and the Middle-East, but we fully recognise the importance of the UK market and have therefore worked especially hard to ready the car for sale in this territory. This has included creating a special all- inclusive launch price of £59,995,” added Echeverria.
Other features and upgrade options include: carbon bucket seats with water-resistant Dinamica suede trim; exposed carbon bodywork panels; 330mm quick-release suede-covered steering wheel; electronic data acquisition dash; built-in HD camera; wide range of colours in matte and gloss finish; titanium bolt pack.
