Project 1221
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Project 1221’s latest news update reveals a tangible flavour to what have been, until now, a rather abstruse set of aspirations for the new marque. Project 1221 is a temporary name, a cryptic clue to the intentions of the establishment as a whole.
Undergoing final development in Modena, the débutant of the exclusive marque is a worthy supercar, a breath of fresh air unlike anything currently offered on the market. Aimed as a competitor to the Bugatti Veyron, the MF1, named after legendary engineer Mauro Forghieri, will boast an extensive range of features.
Engineering
Technically the berlinetta has the potential to effortlessly outperform any sports car available today. With a four-digit power output, the engineers working on the project will have undoubtedly encountered challenges in successfully transferring the power to the tarmac. Although the cryptic name ‘1221’ has no intentional relation to the power output, project CEO Andreas Andrianos has revealed to Italiaspeed that “we might eventually get close to this number”. At the current stage of development, the power output has not yet been fixed, with many variables still undergoing rigorous testing including “drivability in everyday traffic conditions and reliability coming first”. Regarding the type of engine that will feature in the MF1, one can only speculate. It has been revealed, however that the MF1 has a "remarkably low centre of gravity", hinting towards either a boxer or 180 degree V layout, reminiscent of the classic Forghieri flat-twelve engines for Ferrari.
All-wheel-drive will assist in power delivery, complemented by an advanced traction control system. For experienced drivers, however, the MF1 supercar will be available with a traditional rear-wheel-drive layout, whilst the traction control system can also be disengaged.
Solid details regarding the chassis design of the MF1 have not yet been publicised, although an innovative structure has been engineered, with truly forward-thinking solutions. Constructed out of a series of particular materials, combined in a particular manner, the chassis will also accept optional armour plating. Unlike any other supercar, the MF1 has been designed to be drivable under a variety of conditions. A large fuel tank feeds the powerful, yet highly efficient, petrol engine, with ample capacity for a diesel-like range, ideal for long journeys. Inner city slow moving traffic presents no problem either, as the driver of the MF1 has the luxury of controlling the power-output of the engine to more suitable levels. Both manual and automatic gearboxes will be available on the MF1.
Design
Project 1221 is not solely a manufacturer of automobiles, however, with an intention to target the aviation and boat market as well. To achieve this broad aim, Project 1221 is in an ideal position, with a vast array of experts in all conceivable fields at their disposal.
In the case of the MF1, two development centres were established. Interior and exterior design work is undertaken in Turin, headed by Emanuele Nicosia and Anna Visconti, whilst a qualified team of engineers under command of Mauro Forghieri, in Modena, are responsible for the engineering side of the project.
The fundamental engineering and design concept of the MF1 is based on the exploratory work of Andreas Andrianos, who defined the cahier des charges and also developed a reference clay model. A particularly well thought out design detail is the doors of the MF1, described by Andrianos as "elegant and highly functional", a "novel approach to interior access".
The novel approach continues with the interior, including a well thought out environment, imaginative material choice and a fresh approach to the controls. Project 1221 also appointed specialists in the field of ergonomics and seating biomechanics, to ensure unrivalled comfort.
An attribute which complements the long distance abilities of the MF1, is the large luggage capacity. With all of these features, combined together, the MF1 is a unique no compromise travel-capsule. Unlike contemporary supercars, which have a tendency for spending most of their life under covers is garages, the qualities of the MF1 can be enjoyed everyday.
Limited edition run
Project 1221 has already started taking orders for the MF1, and are accepting them through the company’s website. The production output of the MF1 will be divided in two parts (#001 to #100 and #101 to # 200), with the precedence in each part secured respectively by 20% and 1% deposits.
The intention behind this strategy is to allow an equal opportunity of ownership to all, with a reward for the keenest. The MF1 has been listed at a price of €575 000, before tax. Further details of allocation, and contact details, are available on the company website.
The MF1 will be publicly presented for the first time this summer, with delivery scheduled to commence in early 2008.
By Patrick Granger