Donkervoort D8 GTO Bare Naked Carbon Edition unveiled
Dutch supercar manufacturer develops new GTO made of carbon fibre
The D8 GTO Bare Naked Carbon Edition has been released as the newest variant of the low-volume manufacturer’s sole model.
Donkervoort say that the Carbon Edition is the first model they have produced to have a body crafted entirely out of visible carbonfibre, giving the car a much stronger chassis while reducing kerb weight even further compared to the ‘standard’ D8 GTO.
The Bare Naked Edition’s upgrades are purely cosmetic and designed to enhance the car’s appearance. Every part on the limited-run car, from the headlight housings and nosecone to the rear diffuser is made of carbonfibre.
Inside the cockpit, the lightweight ethos continues, with the belt and roll bar trim and ignition cylinder housing made of visible carbon weave.
The Dutch manufacturer has extensive experience with carbonfibre, as 90% of the regular D8 GTO’s body panels are made of the lightweight material. As well as producing carbonfibre parts for its own model range, Donkervoort has previously developed lightweight parts for other manufacturers.
Every carbonfibre component of the car will be painted by hand with a protective UV coating. Customers will have the option of personalising their car further by specifying this coating in a specific colour, or by opting for a matte or gloss clear finish.
Power is derived from the same Audi-sourced TFSI 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine as in other Donkervoort models, which can be offered in varying states of tune up to a maximum of 375bhp. With only 700kg to propel, the five-cylinder engine creates 350lb ft of torque from 1750rpm in Performance trim. The D8 GTO’s low kerb weight allows it to complete the 0-60mph sprint in just 2.8 seconds.
Founded in 1978 by Joop Donkervoort, the original S7 and S8 models used a mix of Triumph and Ford chassis and engine components. Both cars bore a resemblance to the Lotus Seven and Caterham bodystyle.
Since then, Donkervoort has enjoyed a close collaboration with Audi as an engine and development partner.
The Dutch concern is now taking orders for their carbon-skinned supercar, with the first D8 GTO Bare Naked Carbon Edition already delivered to its new owner in Switzerland.
