Alcoa’s aluminum wheels have been selected as factory
fitments for the new Ferrari 458 Italia.
“The weight-saving possible with Alcoa’s forged aluminum
wheels helps to achieve the sharp handling and steering
response for which Ferrari is famous,” says Victor Marquez,
vice president and general manager at Alcoa Auto
Wheels.
The use of forged aluminum wheel technology pioneered by
Alcoa, according to Marquez, ensures that the front wheel
weighs just 22.8 pounds, while the rear wheel weighs in at
25.3 pounds – a significant savings compared to a typical
cast aluminum wheel and a result that is only achievable
with a forging process.
“These weights are all the more remarkable in view of the
sizes; wheel diameters are increased to 20 inches to
accommodate large carbon-ceramic brake discs, and rim widths
of 8.5 inches (front) and 10.5 inches (rear) are required by
the latest generation of high performance tires,” he
says.
“Lower wheel mass decreases rotational inertia, meaning
forged wheels require less energy to spin up to speed during
acceleration, Marquez continues.
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“This also helps reduce the gyroscopic effect of high speed
rotation, improving steering response and performance. The
lightweight wheels also improve grip, traction and braking
resulting in better vehicle control and a smoother ride,
because Alcoa’s wheels stay in contact with the road better
than heavier cast wheels,” he notes.
“As well as styling freedom, Alcoa’s forged wheels offer a
quick-to-market, cost-effective weight reduction,” explains
Marquez. “We are able to provide new wheel programs rapidly
to meet vehicle launch schedules.”
For more information visit www.strongwheels.com.
