Gordon Murray T50: Ultima-based mule lets V12 rip in new video

While the Gordon Murray Automotive T50 supercar is being prepared for market launch, test driver Dario Franchitti took a prototype based on Ultima GTR to the high-speed bowl on the Millbrook Proving Ground and gave us a first taste of its unmistakable engine note.

In an official video (below), the four-time Indycar Series champion gets to know the T50 developed by Cosworth 650 hp V12 naturally aspirated engine while preparing to drive one of the series-built XP test cars (experimental prototype).

This is our first chance to hear the 4.0-liter V12 at high speed, and as Franchitti approaches the headline-grabbing rev limit of 12,100 rpm, the engine sound is obviously reminiscent of the twelve-cylinder power units that were in the formula until 1996 1 were used.

Like the McLaren F1 (also developed by Gordon Murray and widely regarded as the spiritual ancestor of the T50), this test mule, known as George, is based on an Ultima that is normally powered by a Chevrolet-derived V8 one of which had to be extensively modified, to accommodate the larger engine.

Three working XP cars are in operation, however, and one will star at the Goodwood Member’s Meeting next week, lapping the Sussex circuit in anger in what will mark the T50’s public debut.

The biggest mechanical difference between George and the final production car is that the early prototype does without the characteristic downforce-increasing fan technology of the T50. Inspired by the device used by Brabham’s 1978 F1 racing car, this essentially creates a “virtual long tail” when the car is traveling at high speed, which improves stability.

Notably, the Ultima’s cabin also features a conventional two-seater layout, while the final T50 will adopt an F1-style three-seat layout, with the two passengers positioned slightly behind the centrally positioned driver.