
Bespoke, Lightweight, British, Supercar, Revolutionary
There are some places in the world where time seems to stand still, where you can almost feel the weight of history in the air. But there are also places where the future feels like it's rushing towards you, daring you to grasp it. And when it comes to the world of high-performance automobiles, the future has arrived in the form of a beguiling creation from Britain: the Briggs Automotive Company's (BAC) newest iteration of its Mono R, crafted uniquely with Hypetex’s titanium carbon fibre twill.
You see, in our relentless quest for perfection, we often find ourselves chasing weight, or rather, the reduction of it. BAC understood this. The original BAC Mono R was a testament to the philosophy of “less is more”, weighing in at a mere 555kg and boasting 343bhp. To put it in simple terms, it promised an exhilarating power-to-weight ratio of 618bhp-per-tonne.
But why stop at incredible when you can go for breathtaking?
Enter Hypetex, a UK-based maestro in lightweight materials, with a specialization in custom-colored carbon fiber composites. They've rubbed shoulders with big players like Jaguar, McLaren, and even Ford Performance. And this time, they've outdone themselves. With their paint-replacement technology, the Mono R has shed its weight even further. While conventional paint adds about 138 grams per square meter, Hypetex's technology brings that down to a feather-light 17 grams for the same space.
The visual aspect isn't forgotten either. This car is not just about raw, unadulterated speed; it's also about making a statement. The Mono R's body gleams with a crystallized lacquer finish, showcasing the hypnotic weave of the titanium carbon fibre twill. And it’s not just about looks – this ultra-lightweight superstar boasts an acceleration from zero to 60mph in under 2.5 seconds.
This union of BAC and Hypetex is more than just a fling; it’s an embodiment of an all-British success story. Most of BAC’s supply chain is rooted in the UK, with the Hypetex carbon fibre body being the masterpiece of Formaplex, a leading name known for crafting lightweight solutions for various industries.
The final touch? Personalization. No two Monos will ever be the same, thanks to BAC's Bespoke programme. The showcased model, with its distinctive yellow accents on the mirrors, brake calipers, and intake cone, was crafted for a discerning US-based collector. And while this Mono R remains one-of-a-kind, the technological marvel behind it hints at a future where titanium carbon fiber may become a standard in the world of luxury automobiles.
As Chris Lockhart, Head of Global Sales at BAC puts it, this Mono R version retains BAC's “laser focus on performance and lightweight technology”. Marc Cohen, the CEO of Hypetex, beams with pride about their involvement in creating “one of the world’s lightest and fastest production supercars”. And they should be proud. This isn't just a car; it's a statement, a testament to innovation, and a promise of what’s to come in the realm of automotive craftsmanship.
In a world where the race is always on, this British marvel has just upped the stakes. Strap in, because the future is now, and it's breathtaking.
Pros:
- Weight Reduction: By using Hypetex's paint-replacement technology, the car's weight is significantly reduced, which inherently improves performance.
- Unique Aesthetic: The titanium carbon fibre twill, combined with the crystallized lacquer finish, offers a one-of-a-kind appearance, ensuring the car stands out.
- Increased Performance: With a stellar power-to-weight ratio, the car can accelerate from zero to 60mph in under 2.5 seconds.
- Customization: BAC’s Bespoke programme ensures every Mono is unique, allowing buyers to have a vehicle tailored to their preferences.
- Sustainability: Hypetex's technology and materials are born out of Formula 1, offering both aesthetic and efficiency benefits.
- British Craftsmanship: BAC's supply chain is predominantly UK-based, supporting local businesses and industries.
- Collaboration with Renowned Manufacturers: The partnership with Hypetex, a company that has previously collaborated with major brands like Jaguar, McLaren, and Ford Performance, ensures quality and innovation.
Cons:
- Exclusivity: As a one-of-a-kind vehicle, it's not widely available for car enthusiasts or potential buyers.
- Unknown Long-Term Durability: While Hypetex’s technology sounds promising, the long-term durability of the paint-replacement material in various climates and conditions is yet to be seen.
- Potential Cost: Given the bespoke nature, advanced materials, and customization options, the car might be priced beyond the reach of many enthusiasts.
- Single-Seater Design: The Mono R is a single-seater, which limits its practicality for those seeking a vehicle for more than just solo drives or track days.
- Uncited Curb Weight Post Modification: While weight reduction is a major selling point, the exact curb weight after using Hypetex's technology has not been specified, leaving some uncertainty about the exact weight savings.