De Tomaso P900 with Naturally Aspirated V12 900 hp — World Auto News | automotive24.center

De Tomaso P900: Naturally Aspirated V12 Revives the Sound of the Formula 1 Era

The Italian marque De Tomaso is preparing to release a new track supercar, the P900, which is set to become one of the most distinctive projects in recent years

twitter facebook whatsapp linkedin

The model’s key feature is an all-new naturally aspirated V12 engine producing 900 horsepower without turbocharging or any form of electrification. At a time when the automotive industry is broadly shifting toward hybrid and electric powertrains, this approach represents a deliberate commitment to mechanical purity and distinctive sound.

Brand Revival and New Technical Direction

De Tomaso is a company with a rich history, founded in Italy in the mid-20th century. Following a prolonged period of instability, the marque was revived in the previous decade and is gradually returning to the production of exclusive limited-series vehicles. The P900 model will build upon the previously unveiled P72 project but is intended exclusively for track use.

The heart of the vehicle is a new 7.0-liter V12 developed in collaboration with the Italian engineering firm ItalTecnica. While a different supplier was initially considered, the final engine version was created specifically to meet the P900’s requirements.

Engine Design

The engine follows a classic naturally aspirated layout without turbos or superchargers. The cylinder bank angle is 65 degrees, and it employs a dry-sump lubrication system with multi-stage oil management, ensuring reliable operation under high lateral loads. The cylinder block is aluminum, with forged connecting rods and lightweight pistons. Each cylinder features four titanium valves and dual overhead camshafts.

Special attention has been paid to weight reduction. Despite its 7.0-liter displacement and 12 cylinders, the complete engine weighs under 200 kilograms. The air intake system is made from composite materials, further reducing mass and contributing to rapid throttle response.

Power and Character

Peak power reaches 900 horsepower at 9,500 rpm. The rev limiter engages at approximately 10,200 rpm, an impressive figure for a naturally aspirated engine of this capacity. Torque is delivered to the rear wheels via an Xtrac sequential gearbox designed for motorsport applications.

The creators emphasize that the goal was not only to achieve high output but also to craft a distinctive sound profile. Engineers drew inspiration from the acoustics of naturally aspirated Formula 1 engines of past eras, when V10 and V12 units operated at extreme revs without turbocharging. In the P900, sound is treated as an integral part of the engineering philosophy.

Positioning and Pricing

The P900 is designed solely for track use and is not intended for public roads. Production will be limited. The approximate price of the vehicle is around €2,500,000. As such, the project targets a select group of collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate traditional naturally aspirated engines.

Conclusion

The De Tomaso P900 offers an alternative perspective on supercar development in the age of widespread electrification. Its new 7.0-liter V12 combines high power, low weight, and extreme revs, emphasizing mechanical purity and evocative sound. The project reflects a desire to preserve the heritage of naturally aspirated engines in the realm of exclusive track cars.