September 29, 2005 Automobili Lamborghini SpA is unveiling a limited special edition uprated version of its phenomenally-successful Gallardo -- the aptly-named Gallardo SE super sports car -- at this year’s Australian International Motor Show at Sydney’s Darling Harbour October 14-23. The new Gallardo SE (Special Edition) is being restricted to just 250 units worldwide. It is characterised by its innovative two-tone paint and trim combinations, plus a raft of advanced technical modifications. Mechanically, the Gallardo SE benefits from several important upgrades: the gearbox is now equipped with shorter gear ratios in the first five gears, dramatically boosting its dynamic performance. The result is breathtaking acceleration -- from 0-100km/h in 4.0 seconds – shaving off 0.2 seconds, and achieving a top speed of 315 km/h versus 309 km/h previously. The effects are particularly noticeable on an Egear-equipped SE thanks to its ‘Thrust Mode’, which enables optimum acceleration and changes from a standing start throughout all gears.
The basis for the Special Edition is the extreme, uncompromising and unsurpassed Lamborghini Gallardo, meaning the SE comes equipped with permanent 4WD, a six-speed gearbox, aluminum space frame, ESP and ASR, ABS, ABD, aircon, and two front and two side airbags.
Dedicated colourways for the Gallardo SE comprise Light Silver (Grigio Altair), Dark Silver (Grigio Proteus), White (Bianco Balloon), Yellow (Giallo Midas), Orange (Arancio Borealis), and Green (Verde Ithaca).
By contrast, the roof, engine bonnet, front and rear spoilers, and door mirrors, are all picked out in black (Nero Noctis) relief. The external styling cues continue with subtly-tinted tail-light lenses, and custom Callisto wheel rims complemented by colour-coded brake calipers (available in grey or yellow). Inside the cabin, the SE reinforces the two-tone look, with all piping and stitching matching the exterior body color of the car. Homage to Lamborghini’s illustrious heritage is acknowledged: the famous ‘Raging Bull’ shield is embossed on the driver and passenger seat head restraints, and the Lamborghini scripted name is deep-set into the dashboard.
All carpets are black, with the borders again matching the body panel shade. As would be expected with a vehicle of this caliber, the SE’s interior is handcrafted in the softest kid-glove Italian leather, partially perforated. The interior design underlines the SE’s new, more aggressive personality. And exclusively for this Gallardo variant, there is also an engine-bay shield with the embossed vehicle identification number.
Not surprisingly, the Gallardo SE is jam-packed with the latest state-of-the-art electronics, including drivers’ multi-directional rear view camera, which, when used in conjunction with the built-in multimedia screen, significantly increases visibility for easy reversing and parking.
In terms of handling, beefed-up suspension and a set of Zero Corsa tyres (specifically developed by Pirelli for more ‘ambitious’ driving), combine to provide additional confidence through the uniquely-sculptured sports steering wheel. All standard issue on the SE, as is the tailored car cover.
Of course, each Gallardo SE can be further individualised by selecting from an extensive range of options available to order. Customers can choose from a manual or robotised Egear transmission, and heated door mirrors, and heated seats (fully electrically-adjustable seats are fitted as standard equipment for the Australian market).
A winter package (heated seats, heated side mirrors, heated wash jets, rubber floor mats, and 12-volt outlet) and a lifting system are also offered. If preferred, standard road tyres instead of the Zero Corsa original equipment version can be specified at no extra cost.
Mechanically, the Gallardo SE benefits from several important upgrades: the gearbox is now equipped with shorter gear ratios in the first five gears, dramatically boosting its dynamic performance. The result is breathtaking acceleration -- from 0-100km/h in 4.0 seconds – shaving off 0.2 seconds, and achieving a top speed of 315 km/h versus 309 km/h previously. The effects are particularly noticeable on an Egear-equipped SE thanks to its ‘Thrust Mode’, which enables optimum acceleration and changes from a standing start throughout all gears.
By incorporating so many direct and precise steering engineering refinements into Gallardo’s sophisticated geometry and its AWD, the ability of the Gallardo SE to stick like glue to the tarmac of both road and track has been ratched up yet another notch. The stunning Gallardo SE is unquestionably the star attraction at this year’s Australian International Motor Show at Darling Harbour. With a retail price expected around the AUD$425,000 mark, only six units are destined for Australia.
