For those considering the exhilarating Ferrari 812 Superfast, understanding its real-world performance is as crucial as knowing its price. While the cost of a supercar like the 812 Superfast is a significant factor, potential owners also want to know how it performs in everyday driving conditions, not just in idealized scenarios. This is where vehicle testing procedures become important, and why the shift to the Worldwide harmonised Light-duty vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) is a step in the right direction.
The older New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) was used to measure fuel consumption and emissions, but its limitations became increasingly apparent. With an average speed of just 34 km/h and a maximum speed of 120 km/h, NEDC’s gentle accelerations and speeds were far removed from the dynamic driving experience expected from a car like the Ferrari 812 Superfast. This meant that the fuel consumption and emission figures derived from NEDC often didn’t reflect what drivers experienced on the road.
The WLTP procedure offers a more realistic assessment. It employs more dynamic driving profiles, with higher accelerations and speeds reaching up to 131.3 km/h. The average speed is also increased to 46.5 km/h, and the test duration is longer, covering a greater distance of 23.25 kilometers compared to NEDC’s 11 kilometers. WLTP includes four parts – Low, Medium, High, and Extra-high speed – simulating urban, suburban, and highway driving, providing a more comprehensive evaluation.
For a potential Ferrari 812 Superfast buyer, WLTP provides a more accurate picture of what to expect in terms of fuel consumption and emissions under various driving conditions. This is vital information when considering the overall running costs and environmental impact alongside the initial price of this high-performance machine. Understanding the difference between outdated and modern testing procedures helps consumers make informed decisions, ensuring that the thrill of owning a Ferrari 812 Superfast is matched with a realistic understanding of its performance characteristics.
