The new Range Rover Sport SV has set a new benchmark in braking performance with its introduction of Carbon Ceramic Braking technology, marking a first for the Range Rover line. During a recent two-week event at the Algarve International Circuit in Portugal, the Range Rover Sport SV demonstrated its superior braking capabilities and endurance.
The vehicle features the most extensive front brake discs in the automotive sector, at 440mm, along with innovative Brembo Octyma eight-piston callipers, the largest ever used on a Range Rover. This new calliper design utilises a unique cross-shape arrangement that maximises efficiency and enhances pressure distribution across the brake pads, reducing wear and tear significantly.
The Range Rover Sport SV, equipped with a 635PS mild-hybrid Twin Turbo V8, demonstrated its prowess by completing over 600 miles and 860 laps at the Portimão circuit without needing to change the brake pads. Impressively, the pads retained about 30% of their life even after extensive use under high-stress conditions.
Carbon Ceramic Brakes not only provide excellent performance but also offer a weight reduction benefit, shedding 34kg of unsprung mass compared to the standard Dual-Cast Brakes. This contributes to more responsive handling, better acceleration, and improved ride quality. The cooling efficiency of these brakes is also notably higher than that of traditional iron brake discs, leading to better temperature management and slower wear.
The braking system’s design also features a reductive approach that complements the SUV’s aesthetics, with callipers that incorporate the vehicle’s bold and muscular surfacing. Options for calliper customisation include colours like Red, Yellow, Carbon Bronze, and Black, depending on the braking system chosen.
Additionally, the SUV includes aerodynamic revisions with dedicated brake cooling ducts that aid in managing brake temperatures effectively, along with Decoupled Integrated Power Braking technology. This technology enhances the vehicle’s dynamic handling by reducing stopping distances and ensuring a consistent brake pedal feel under various conditions.
The Range Rover Sport SV’s introduction of advanced braking technology continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in luxury performance vehicles, combining robust performance with innovative engineering and design.
All images courtesy of landrover.com
