Meet Ginetta Akula, a 600bhp supercar

11.09.2024

When you picture a car boasting 600bhp and a 473-litre boot capacity, you might automatically think of high-performance sedans like an extreme version of the BMW M3. However, these impressive figures actually belong to the Ginetta Akula, a supercar hailing from Yorkshire, U.K. that defies expectations as a blend of track machine, grand tourer, and practical hatchback. Originally unveiled in 2019, five years of rigorous development have readied the Akula for mass production, seamlessly combining aggressive performance with day-to-day functionality in a one-of-a-kind package.The design of the Ginetta Akula is bold and unapologetically wild, drawing heavy influence from the brand's racing heritage, particularly the G61-LT-P1 Le Mans prototype racer. Its eye-catching exterior is sculpted for optimal aerodynamic efficiency, featuring a front splitter, fierce turning vanes, and a substantial rear wing. Underneath the car, a flat carbon fiber floor directs airflow towards a deep rear diffuser, ensuring stability at high speeds. Despite its aerodynamic focus, Ginetta has managed to maintain significant storage space, a rarity in a supercar of this caliber.The Akula isn't just a road-going thrill; it's built with the track in mind. Constructed around a carbon fiber monocoque with carbon fiber subframes front and rear, reinforced by a steel roll cage for enhanced safety. Its suspension system is a masterpiece of racing technology, boasting billet aluminum double wishbones with electronically adaptive dampers and manually adjustable anti-roll bars. Braking power comes from race-bred 360mm steel brake discs, with an option to upgrade to carbon ceramic brakes as part of an optional Race Pack. Even with the standard setup, adapted from Ginetta's GT4 racing cars, the Akula proves more than capable for both road and track use.At the heart of the Akula lies a Ginetta-designed 6.4-liter V8 engine generating an impressive 600bhp and 670Nm of torque. Positioned behind the front axle, the engine sits far back under the windscreen, creating a ‟front-mid-engine‟ layout that, paired with rear-wheel drive and a Ginetta limited-slip differential, provides exceptional balance. The car can be paired with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Weighing in at just 1,190kg, the Akula accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in a mere 2.9 seconds, hitting a top speed of over 290km/h, showcasing not only power but aerodynamic prowess.Internally, the Akula's cockpit seamlessly blends luxury and functionality, with fixed carbon fiber seats tailored to each buyer, offering foam padding for a personalized fit. The seats share this padding with the transmission tunnel and door sides, providing comfort and support during high-speed maneuvers. While the seats are fixed, the pedal box and carbon fiber steering wheel are adjustable, ensuring optimal driver control. The interior features a mix of carbon fiber and CNC-machined aluminum, with bespoke components like door handles and air vents. Despite its racing roots, the Akula also offers everyday comforts such as cup holders, a touchscreen infotainment system with iOS integration, wireless smartphone charging, and a heated windscreen.The Akula's practicality extends beyond its interior to its 100-liter fuel tank, enabling a range of up to 725 kilometers with around 20 miles per gallon fuel efficiency, a rare accomplishment in the supercar realm. Ginetta's dedication to merging practicality with performance is further showcased by the Akula's ability to handle long-distance journeys, like the 1,900-kilometer round trip from Ginetta's Leeds headquarters to the Nürburgring and back.Priced around €400,000, the Ginetta Akula comes with a hefty price tag. However, with production limited to just 20 units, commemorating the 20th anniversary of Ginetta's acquisition by Dr. Lawrence Tomlinson, it promises exclusivity alongside its groundbreaking performance. In a world where supercars often sacrifice practicality for speed, the Akula stands tall as a true exception, offering both in abundance.The Ginetta Akula is a supercar that defies conventions. It's fast, aggressive, and track-ready, yet surprisingly versatile and practical. Whether conquering the Nürburgring or cruising along a scenic highway, the Akula demonstrates that performance and everyday usability can coexist harmoniously.