The Italdesign Zerouno is a limited-production, high-performance coupe unveiled in 2017. Born from a collaboration between Italdesign and virtual reality racing simulator developer Assetto Corsa, the Zerouno was initially conceived as a digital exercise in automotive design and engineering. Demand led to a small-series production run of just five vehicles, each individually tailored to its owner’s specifications. The 5.2 V10 variant, equipped with a naturally aspirated V10 engine producing 610 horsepower and a seven-speed automatic transmission coupled with all-wheel drive, represents the pinnacle of this exclusive offering. Italdesign, renowned for its design and engineering work for other manufacturers, used the Zerouno to showcase its capabilities in creating a complete, bespoke vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Italdesign |
| Model | Zerouno |
| Generation | Zerouno |
| Type (Engine) | 5.2 V10 (610 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 330 km/h (205.05 mph) |
| Power | 610 Hp @ 8250 rpm |
| Torque | 560 Nm @ 6500 rpm (413.03 lb.-ft. @ 6500 rpm) |
| Number of cylinders | 10 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 73 l (19.28 US gal | 16.06 UK gal) |
| Length | 4847 mm (190.83 in) |
| Width | 1970 mm (77.56 in) |
| Height | 1204 mm (47.4 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission |
| Tires size | 245/30 R20; 305/30 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Zerouno 5.2 V10 is a 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine, derived from the Audi R8’s powerplant but extensively modified by Italdesign. The engine utilizes a direct injection system to maximize efficiency and power output. Its 90-degree V configuration contributes to a smooth power delivery and reduced vibrations. Producing 610 horsepower at 8250 rpm and 413 lb-ft of torque at 6500 rpm, the engine is a testament to the enduring appeal of naturally aspirated engines in a market increasingly dominated by turbocharging. The engine’s internals are reinforced to handle the stresses of high-performance driving. The seven-speed automatic transmission, sourced from a high-end supplier, is calibrated for rapid shifts and seamless power delivery. The all-wheel-drive system employs a sophisticated torque vectoring system, distributing power between the front and rear axles, and across the rear wheels, to optimize traction and handling.
Driving Characteristics
The Zerouno 5.2 V10 delivers a visceral driving experience. Acceleration is breathtaking, with a 0-60 mph time of approximately 3 seconds and a top speed exceeding 205 mph. The naturally aspirated V10 responds instantly to throttle inputs, providing a linear and predictable power delivery. The seven-speed automatic transmission shifts quickly and smoothly, keeping the engine within its optimal power band. The all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional grip, inspiring confidence in all conditions. While the automatic transmission offers convenience, it doesn’t quite match the engagement of a manual gearbox, a trade-off for ease of use. The car’s relatively lightweight construction, achieved through extensive use of carbon fiber, contributes to its agile handling and responsive steering. The suspension is tuned for a balance between comfort and performance, providing a firm but compliant ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
Given the limited production run and bespoke nature of the Zerouno, customization was a key element. Each of the five cars was tailored to the owner’s preferences. Standard features included a luxurious interior trimmed with high-quality leather and carbon fiber. The cockpit was driver-focused, with supportive sport seats and a minimalist dashboard design. Infotainment systems were integrated seamlessly into the interior, offering navigation, audio, and connectivity features. Optional extras included bespoke paint finishes, unique interior color schemes, and advanced driver-assistance systems. The Zerouno was not about offering a wide range of trim levels, but rather about creating a unique and personalized driving experience for each customer.
Chassis & Braking
The Zerouno’s chassis is a carbon fiber monocoque, providing exceptional rigidity and minimizing weight. This lightweight structure is crucial to the car’s performance. The suspension utilizes independent double wishbones at all four corners, optimized for both handling and ride comfort. Braking is provided by high-performance carbon ceramic discs with multi-piston calipers, delivering exceptional stopping power and fade resistance. The braking system is further enhanced by an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). The steering is a power-assisted rack-and-pinion system, providing precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Italdesign Zerouno was not a mass-market vehicle, and therefore did not receive extensive reviews from automotive publications. However, those that did test the car praised its performance, handling, and exclusivity. Critics noted the car’s stunning design, its powerful engine, and its engaging driving experience. Compared to other high-performance coupes, such as the Ferrari 488 or the Lamborghini Huracán, the Zerouno offered a unique blend of Italian design flair and German engineering precision. Its limited production run and bespoke nature also made it a highly desirable collector’s item. Fuel economy, unsurprisingly, was not a primary concern for buyers of this vehicle.
Legacy
The Italdesign Zerouno represents a significant achievement for the design and engineering firm. It demonstrated Italdesign’s ability to create a complete, bespoke vehicle from the ground up. The Zerouno’s limited production run ensures its continued exclusivity and collectibility. The powertrain, while not the most fuel-efficient, is known for its reliability and durability, particularly given its high-performance nature. On the used car market, Zerouno examples command a substantial premium, reflecting their rarity and the prestige associated with the Italdesign brand. The Zerouno serves as a showcase of what is possible when design, engineering, and personalization converge.
