Although the models which Ferrari usually publicises are those produced in more than a single unit, there are also cars which the carmaker has made which are not shown or mentioned because the customers may not like publicity. But some do agree to the exposure and the customer who commissioned the Ferrari BR20, the latest addition to the brand’s One-Off series, is one of them.
The BR20 is a 2-seater V12 coupe developed on the GTC4Lusso platform which, in terms of its philosophy and styling approach, references the Ferrari coupes of the 1950s and 1960s, without the slightest hint of nostalgia. Instead, it incorporates styling themes typical of some of the most iconic 12-cylinder models in Ferrari history, such as the 410 SA and 500 Superfast.
The GTC4Lusso’s two rear seats have been removed to add extra dynamism to the BR20’s ultra-sleek fastback line. The new car is about 75 mm longer than the original, thanks to a specific rear overhang treatment designed to create a silhouette that beautifully emphasises its proportions.
One of the cornerstones of the design process for this one-off was the radical modification made to the cabin volume. This in turn gave the design team the freedom to conceive the innovative proportions that ultimately produced a powerful yet stylistically coherent exterior design theme.
The new cabin design creates the impression of a pair of arches running lengthwise from A-pillar to rear spoiler. The rear volume of the arch has been hollowed out to create an aerodynamic channel with the air outlet concealed by the black rear fascia under the spoiler. This modern take on Ferrari’s ‘flying buttress’ theme firmly connects the car to the brand’s signature styling cues not just from its GT tradition, but also sportscars such as the 599 GTB Fiorano.
To visually lighten the cabin, the black paint of the roof visually connects the windscreen to the rear screen, which stands above the surface of the rear tailgate as if to channel the airflow. A muscular rear bumper melds with the aggressive look of the rest of the car. Twin taillights create a visual dialogue with the tailpipes, which are lower and set into a prominent aerodynamic diffuser with active flaps on the underbody. Even the BR20’s twin round exhaust tips were designed especially for this one-off model.
The BR20’s many carbonfibre details highlight the edgy dynamic characteristics and powerful performance of this car which has all-wheel drive. The wide front grille sports an upper carbonfibre element, a note of stylistic consistency with other recent Ferrari one-offs, while unusual chrome side inserts help underline the car’s dynamic front stance.
The BR20’s unique identity is further underscored by the front grille’s striking new horizontal slats that lend a powerful sense of three-dimensionality. A virtually endless list of elements was designed specifically for the BR20, not least its modified headlights. They are lower in height compared to those of the GTC4Lusso with slimmer DRLs, which makes the bonnet seem even longer and sleeker. The 20-inch tone-on-tone diamond-finish wheels were also created especially for this unique car.
The BR20’s interior, trimmed in two shades of brown leather and carbonfibre, was developed to meet the customer’s expectations. The seats are trimmed in dark brown Heritage Testa di Moro leather and sport an exclusive pattern at the front as well as silver cross-stitching. The cabin volume runs uninterrupted from the windscreen to the luggage compartment at the rear, creating a sense of unique lightness and airiness for occupants. Oak trim with carbonfibre inserts adorns the rear bench and luggage deck, which conceals a deeper loading area when folded flat, as well as the door handles.
Customers who make use of the Special Projects programme receive unique cars with an exclusive design following the requirements of the customer. This is a one-of-a-kind car and ownership of all design features and elements will be the customer’s. The entire process of development from the time the customer provides a brief can last, on average, more than one year. Typically, customers are involved in every phase of work.
