The FZERO, an initial prototype revealed last year by Rodin Cars, has now entered the test and development phase of its life cycle.

The New Zealand-designed and manufactured hypercar has taken to the track at its home facility, where its 4.0-litre V10 RC.TEN engine was put through its paces. The numbers the engine produces are quite staggering, with 1013bhp at 9500rpm while only using 11psi of boost and a top speed of over 220mph.

The project has taken place at Rodin Cars’ facility on New Zealand’s South Island with its three test circuits and high-tech production facility.

Getting behind the wheel for several testing laps in its first outing was David Dicker, designer of the FZERO and its bespoke twin-turbocharged V10 and a keen racer himself. Dicker was impressed with the performance and durability of the car, stating; “While there’s a long road ahead of testing and development, running the FZERO for the first time gives me immense pride in what everyone at Rodin Cars has achieved in bringing this programme to life. The test went very well and we were able to work through our programme. We’re excited as the FZERO project enters its next phase. It really is a car like no other.”

The hope is for the FZERO to be able to challenge established brands like Aston Martin, Gordon Murray Automotive and Mercedes-AMG in regular competition.

The public was given a glimpse of what powers the FZERO this week when Rodin Cars’ RC.TEN engine was displayed at the Performance Racing Industry Show in Indianapolis.

Words: Mike Booth
Pictures: Rodin Cars