ARES Modena, formerly known as ARES Design, has presented the evolution of the S1 Project, a limited production V8-powered supercar based on the Chevrolet Corvette C8 that is offered in both Speedster (Targa-roof) and Spyder (drop-top) bodystyle variants. Both vehicles are listed on the official website of ARES Modena alongside the Panther Progetto Uno, with detailed specs and a set of renderings. The S1 Project models look considerably closer to production than the equivalent concept cars from 2020 thanks to a series of modifications on the exterior and the interior. Mind you, ARES was criticized for copying the design of the Porsche Electric Le Mans 2035 digital concept car from 2015 which was created by Gilsung Park as his thesis project sponsored by Porsche.
While the design has been toned down, the
supercar retains the Koenigsegg-inspired greenhouse, the Bugatti-inspired tail
and the dual exhaust pipes mounted on the rear deck similar to the McLaren
600LT. The body is entirely made of carbon fiber and appears to have nothing in
common with the Corvette despite sharing the same underpinnings. Usually,
coachbuilt vehicles retain the windshield, windows and door mechanisms from the
models they are based on, since it is pretty complex to design bespoke
components.
Inside, the highlight is the three-screen
layout with a digital instrument cluster, a large infotainment touchscreen and
another screen on the passenger side. The shape of the dashboard with dome-like
structures is more classic Corvette than the C8, while the steering wheel and
switches are borrowed from the latter. High-quality Nappa and Pienofiore
leather have been used for the bespoke upholstery combined with Alcantara and
plenty of exposed carbon fiber.
In terms of dimensions, the S1 Project
measures 4,684 mm long, 2,009 mm wide, and 1,214 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,722 mm. This makes it
slightly longer, wider, and shorter than the C8 Corvette, with an identical
wheelbase. The custom alloy wheels have a diameter of 20 inches at the front
and 21 inches at the rear, shod in mixed tires (275/30 ZR20 front and 345/25
ZR21 rear).
The mid-mounted 6.2-liter V8 engine
sourced from GM supposedly remains untouched, with ARES adding its own exhaust
system. Power and torque figures have yet to be released, although the company
suggests that the new exhaust “dramatically improves the performance”. The
engine is driving the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch
transmission with the help of a limited-slip differential. The models are based
on Corvette’s aluminum chassis, borrowing the forged aluminum axles and the
adaptive Magnetic Ride Control suspension.
ARES Modena didn’t reveal pricing for the
supercars which will be produced in a limited number of 24 units, however order
books are open.
