As with its hard-topped twin, the C8 Aileron gets the same Audi-sourced 4.2-liter V8 mounted behind the driver and pushing 400 HP through either a six-speed manual or automatic tranny. In order to maintain the dynamic driving experience its price tag and power warrant, there's a Lotus-designed suspension sitting under the attractive, though polarizing, metallic skin.

The least subtle touch is the inclusion of the company's motto, in block letters, around the decklid. The text is "Nulla Tenaci Invia Est Via." This is Latin for "if you can read Latin you probably went to Exeter or some shit and got a well-connected job in finance and therefore will easily be able to afford this car."

Full details in the press release.

World Debut of the Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance

PEBBLE BEACH, California (15 August 2009) – Spyker Cars, manufacturer of exclusive, handcrafted sports cars since 2000, today introduced the first prototype of the Spyder version of its all-new second-generation sports car, the Spyker C8 Aileron. The Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder was unveiled at the Spyker lounge on Peter Hay Hill on Saturday, and subsequently displayed on the concept lawn at the 59th Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance on Sunday.

Spyker Cars announced the development of a convertible C8 Aileron Spyder in March at the Geneva Auto Show, during the introduction of the production version of the Spyker C8 Aileron. The car presented today is the first prototype for the open-top model, scheduled to go into production in the first half of 2010.

"Spyker Cars has taken the next step in our short but intense history with the launch of our second-generation sports car," said Victor R. Muller, Spyker Cars' founder and Chief Executive Officer. "We are currently presenting the first Spyker C8 Ailerons to customers, dealers and press around the world, and the response has been very enthusiastic."

"The C8 Aileron Spyder is a logical extension to our range of vehicles, since we have both hard-top and convertible versions of the short-wheelbase model," said Muller. "The Aileron Spyder will offer open-top motoring along with all the usual Spyker characteristics, striking aviation-inspired styling and hand-crafted quality, based on the exclusive use of noble materials."

The Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder
The Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder sports a high-quality, semi-automatic canvas soft-top. The roof's operation is electric/hydraulic, secured by one central latch operated manually. Once folded, the soft-top is totally enclosed within the body of the car, allowing for an undisturbed profile. The roof retracts under an aluminium tonneau, with two buttresses upholstered in quilted Hulshof leather (matching the car's interior) and featuring the company's motto "Nulla Tenaci Invia Est Via" ("For the tenacious, no road is impassable").

The soft top has a glass rear window and is available in eight colours.

The Aileron Spyder features a luggage rack, CNC-machined from solid billets of aluminium, mounted immediately behind the roll hoops, on which a wing-shaped aluminium case is strapped. The case is trimmed in the same quilted leather as the interior and buttresses.

Spyker C8 Aileron: the new-generation Spyker
The Spyker C8 Aileron is an advanced mid-engine, two-seat sports car, featuring a longer wheelbase than Spyker's existing sports cars, the C8 Laviolette and convertible C8 Spyder.

The Aileron is characterized by a distinctive design, lightweight all-aluminium body construction and an uncompromising engineering package. The Spyker C8 Aileron is handcrafted,using only the finest bespoke materials to create a unique automotive statement.

The Aileron features an all-aluminium V8 engine producing 400 bhp and generating 354 lbs of torque at 3,400 rpm. The engine is paired to a manual six-speed gearbox, driving the rear wheels via a limited slip differential. For the first time, Spyker is offering an optional automatic transmission on the C8 Aileron. The Aileron delivers a top speed of 300km/h (187 mph) and accelerates from standstill to 60 mph in a mere 4.5 seconds.

Optional features include a turned aluminium dashboard fascia, elegant 19-inch directional rotor wheels, branded Rotorblade™, quilted leather detailing for the cockpit and Chronoswiss dashboard instruments. Additionally, complete custom and unique finishes are available for the experienced connoisseur. Customers may also order a 5-piece Louis Vuitton luggage set exclusively made for Spyker.

Chassis
The Spyker C8 Aileron's all-aluminium space frame was completely redesigned with the objective to increase torsional rigidity and to incorporate an all-new suspension system designed and supplied by Lotus. These characteristics provide an ideal foundation for enhanced vehicle dynamics.

Moreover, the C8 Aileron's dimensions have been optimised for more interior space and to accommodate the optional automatic gearbox. Compared to the short wheelbase of the firstgeneration cars – the Spyker C8 Laviolette and C8 Spyder – the wheelbase of the C8 Aileron is 150 mm longer, providing more driving comfort and stability at high speeds. Its front track has increased by 6.1 inches (155 mm). The total dimensions of the front and rear track are now 63.98 inches (1625 mm) and 64.76 inches (1645 mm) respectively, which improves road handling significantly.

Spyker has put tremendous effort in the spaceframe performance of the C8 Aileron, specifically the structure's efficiency. The utilisation of modern finite elements and numerical optimisation methods has allowed Spyker's engineers to arrive at an exceptionally stiff structure of 29.500Nm/degree. Rigid-node and load-path technology has been employed in order to ensure that the minimum amount of aluminium is used to achieve this performance, thus reducing the overall weight of the vehicle. The dynamic stiffness characteristics of the structure have been carefully tuned in order to minimise unwanted cabin noises and vibrations, which may otherwise detract from the driving experience. These technologies and measures have allowed Spyker to arrive at the most efficient chassis in its history and certainly one of the best in class.

Design
The design of the hand-crafted Spyker C8 Aileron and Aileron Spyder represents the latest evolution of Spyker's signature architecture, which is heavily inspired by the company's aviation heritage. In the first-generation cars, the propeller design was consistently applied to many elements of the vehicles. Within the design of the new Spyker C8 Aileron, the emphasis was shifted from the propeller propulsion to the turbine propulsion. As a result, for instance, the bright polished air inlets were converted into turbine-engine-shaped air scoops.

In order to enhance the aerodynamic performance of the car, several changes in styling were made. Most of the shark-like gills have been abandoned, which results in a cleaner, smoother appearance. The front end is now characterized by a larger grille that allows additional cooling. Also the rear diffuser was redesigned for improved functionality. An extra spoiler has been placed under the diffuser, providing additional down force to boost the ground effect produced by the diffuser.

Sometimes practicality gains over design: the split side windows with the characteristic metal frame have been replaced by single-pane side windows that are fully retractable, improving driving comfort.

The outside mirrors, standard in body colour, were redesigned and the mirror body is mounted on two turbine fan blades.

The rear lights are made of LEDs (light-emitting diodes). LED lights were also used for the indicators and the sidelights in the redesigned headlight units. The style of the headlights is particularly eye-catching as they follow the body design more closely. This characteristic styling can be defined as a part of the (future) Spyker identity first seen on the Spyker C12 Laturbie and subsequently in the Spyker D8 Peking-to-Paris, which will use the identical headlight units to those of the Aileron.

The C8 Aileron Spyder is available in 16 standard colours, but customers may choose any colour they wish as an option, as well as the Spyker Squadron GT2 colour scheme. The standard colours have been developed by Sikkens Autolakken Nederland and AkzoNobel Car Refinishes. Spyker selected these companies because of their high quality standards and their ability to meet special requirements. Some of the standard colours have been created especially for the C8 Aileron.

Drivetrain
The Spyker C8 Aileron uses the Audi 4.2 litre V8 engine, delivering 400 bhp and is available with two transmission alternatives. The first one is a 6-speed Getrag manual gearbox, with ratios perfectly matched to the V8 engine. A ZF 6-speed automatic gearbox is optional, which comes standard with paddle shifts behind the steering wheel. Both transmissions retain Spyker's trademark exposed gear change mechanism.

Interior
Thanks to its longer chassis, the Spyker C8 Aileron has more interior space, which results in a higher comfort level and improved ergonomics. The interior, with its signature Spyker attention to detail, is made of the highest quality leather, from the Litano range of the Dutch Royal Tannery Hulshof. The leather interior is available in 14 standard colours, but any other colour – if desired by the customer – can be ordered as an option.

The brushed aluminium dashboard was completely redesigned to suit the new Spyker identity and to improve ergonomics and functionality, including driver and passenger airbags. Air vents are designed in turbine style and the performance and distribution of the air conditioning was improved significantly. A multifunctional LCD display is integrated between the speedometer and the odometer. The middle console accommodates the standard Kharma sound system (see In-Car Entertainment). A turned aluminium dashboard, as well as Chronoswiss (Spyker's watch manufacturing partner) dials and switches, are available as an option.

More space was created around the Spyker's characteristic floor-mounted pedal box. The impression of professional functionality and ergonomic styling is enhanced by the optimised positioning of the door handle and the hand-brake lever.

In-Car Entertainment
With more cars going into the market and the increased popularity of the iPod and similar products, demand rose for a standard factory-fitted sound system. As a result, every Spyker C8 Aileron will feature a Kharma audio system as standard equipment, incorporating a digital radio, Bluetooth interface, iPod connectivity and a navigation system. The Kharma sound system offers a turbine-shaped control mounted on the central gearlever bar and a dashboard display, paired to six Kharma loudspeakers. It can be upgraded with an optional audio package.

The presence of a Kharma sound system in the Spyker C8 Aileron marks Kharma's debut in the world of automotive entertainment. Kharma International produces high-end audio products, sold worldwide through a network of highly qualified distributors and dealers. All Kharma sound systems are developed, assembled and tested in the Netherlands, with the utmost care by a team of highly engaged specialists. These characteristics of high-quality products and exclusiveness are fully in line with Spyker's brand values of craftsmanship and exclusivity.

Suspension & Wheels
The C8 Aileron is fitted with a brand new front and rear independent double-wishbone suspension system developed by Lotus. The new suspension system includes a new kinematic layout of the front and rear suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars, mono-tube dampers, coil over damper steel springs, anti-dive and anti-squat setup for improved handling properties. The suspension components are made of forged aluminium where possible, to keep the vehicle's unsprung weight as low as possible. Shock absorbers are placed vertically within the wishbones.

The Aeroblade™ wheels of the first-generation cars are replaced by newly-designed 19-inch alloy wheels. New 12-blade, 19-inch directional rotor wheels, branded Rotorblade™, are available as an option. These wheels are inspired by the turbine blades of a jet engine, which hints at the new styling direction while respecting the aviation heritage. The 235/35 size tires in front and up to 295/30 at the rear provide exceptional handling.

Brakes
The C8 Aileron's brakes are supplied by AP Racing, a partner from day one. Black brake callipers with Spyker script are standard. Colour-coded callipers with Spyker script can be ordered as an option. Carbon ceramic brakes will be available as an option soon.

Warranty
The Spyker C8 Aileron comes with an unlimited 3-year manufacturer's warranty.

That's right, after forking out a lot of cash for the car all owners will be given a Spyker Chronoswiss watch with an orange crocodile skin strap engraved with the car's serial number. As another added bonus, all LM85 owners are invited to a Spiker VIP Hospitality weekend at the 2009 24 Hours of LeMans. Oh, and act now and you'll get a ShamWow!

Spyker Cars N.V., manufacturer of exclusive premium sports cars, proudly presents the Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85 – the road version of its GT2 LeMans car. The Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85 will be built as a limited edition of 24 units maximum, and will be available in both left and right hand drive. Production of the LM85 commences this quarter.

The LM85 is an advanced mid-engine, two-seat sports car. It is characterized by a lightweight all aluminum body construction and an uncompromising engineering package. The powertrain of the LM85 is the all aluminum Audi 4.2 liter V8 engine producing 400 bhp. This is paired to a manual six-speed Getrag gearbox, driving the rear wheels with a Drexler limited slip differential. ABS is standard. The use of aluminum parts and other lightweight materials results in an impressive power-to-weight ratio and underlines the GT2 racing heritage of the car.

Exterior

Based on the Spyker C8 Laviolette GT2R, the racing characteristics of the LM85 are numerous, such as the all aluminum chassis, GT2 livery (Burnt Almond Orange with Gun Metal ‘S’ logo), side mirrors in body color, a carbon fiber rear spoiler, and GT2 windscreen streamer. Behind the black powder coated alloy wheels, black AP Racing 6 piston brake calipers with AP Racing logo appear. The LM85 can optionally be equipped with Le Mans sticker sets as well as a customised LM85 car cover.

Interior

The ample use of black leather and alcantara, which is originally meant to reduce light reflection during racing, has been finished with orange contrast stitching and characterizes the unique interior of the LM85. The dashboard instrument panel is made of turned aluminum. Each car will feature a personalised LM85 serial plaque. On request, Chronoswiss dials and switches can be installed and are virtually identical to the Chronoswiss 24Hours Pilot Watch every LM85 owner receives with his car. The black floor mats are made of fire protective material, finished with orange piping and the LM85 logo embroidered.

Extra features

As mentioned above, every LM85 owner receives a special edition Spyker Chronoswiss 24H Pilot Watch with orange crocodile strap. The serial number of the car will be engraved on the case of this exquisite time piece. Additionally, all LM85 owners are offered an exclusive Spyker VIP Hospitality weekend at the 24H of Le Mans in 2009.

[NextAutos]

Considering the Dutch builder continually puts out courageously offbeat supercars it's not a surprise they're upgrading their ride with new gadgets and whatnot. However, doesn't calling something an "Aileron" suggest the addition of a flying model? It's really the least they could do. Not to hate the Dutch, because Dutch guys got the touch. [Autogespot]

Spyker C8 Aileron unveiled

Spyker Cars, manufacturer of premium sport cars, unveiled its second generation C-line sports car at the Salon International de l'Auto in Geneva, Switzerland today: The all aluminium Long Wheel Base model is called Spyker C8 Aileron and will come with both a manual as well as an automatic gearbox.

Architecture

The Spyker C8 Aileron continues Spyker's signature architecture (applied since its inception in 2000 with the C8 Spyder) of a mid-engined configuration in an aluminium space frame, clad in aluminium body panels.

The Spyker C8 Aileron's space frame is a development of the original space frame of the first generation cars: its torsional rigidity, however, was improved by 40% without adding any weight. Its dimension have changed though, the wheelbase increasing by 10 cm / 4.5 inches for improved road handling and more cockpit space. Also its front track was widened and as a result the car is virtually „square.

Design

Designing a successor of a first generation car is no mean feat. Spyker's design philosophy has always been to create timeless designs, contemporary but classic.
In the first generation cars the leading design cues were Spyker's aviation and racing heritage. The propeller design consistently applied to many elements of the cars ( such as the Aeroblade wheels ) since 2000, was up for refreshment though: And in aviation the propeller engine was succeeded by the turbine engine so Spyker adopted the turbine as its "leitmotiv" for the Spyker C8 Aileron.

The signature Spyker polished air inlets in aluminium were converted into turbine engine shaped scoops reducing the "bling" element considerably, which reflects a trend Spyker sees in general: more sober designs, less exuberant. The scoops have polished alloy nacelles which may be colour coded with the interior as an option.
The airflow around the car was redesigned so that the shark-like gills of the first generation cars (no less than 17 on a C8 Spyder) could be abandoned giving the Aileron a cleaner, smoother appearance.

The radiator opening was enlarged in anticipation of more horsepower requiring additional cooling. The mesh is V-shaped as on the first generation cars, a direct reference to the Spykers of the previous century, but angled forward giving the car a somewhat more aggressive stance.

Also the headlight units were reshaped to follow the body design more closely. LED lights are incorporated in the units for indicators as well as Xenon lights (which are standard now).

The glass jet brighten inspired canopy, first introduced on the C8 Laviolette in February 2001, was extended backwards, reducing drag and increasing cockpit headroom. The signature air inlet atop the cockpit remained save that is now turbine shaped.

With the increased wheelbase (10cm / 4.5 inches) the doors grew by the same length allowing for more comfortable in- and egress.

Unfortunately practicality sometimes gains over design: The first generation cars have split side windows which were not optimal in terms of sealing (wind noise and water management). The Spyker C8 Aileron has single pane side glass that drops when the door is opened and closed, creating improved comfort level.

The rear diffuser was redesigned for improved functionality. The redesigned rear lights are LED units.

The outside mirrors were redesigned and the cone is mounted on two turbine fan blades, standard in body colour (but available in polished aluminium as an option)

Power train

The Aileron will continue to use the Audi 4.2 litre V8 giving 400 BHP. This state-of-the-art 5 valve 4 cam engine is now mated to a 6 speed Getrag manual or a 6 speed automatic ZF gearbox. This is the first time a Spyker is available with such an automatic gearbox as standard equipment.

Wheels and suspension

The Aeroblade ™ (5 propeller) wheels of the first generation cars are - logically - replaced by a 10 blade rotor wheel called „Rotorblade' ™. They come in 19" all round and are made in left and right hand turning versions.

The Spyker C8 Aileron's suspension was developed from scratch and has double wishbones both front and rear. Shock absorbers are now placed vertically within the wishbones.

(Carbon Ceramic ) Brakes

Brakes are supplied by AP Racing, a Spyker partner from day one. Colour coded callipers with Spyker script are available as an option. The Aileron is available with carbon ceramic brakes as an option as well.

Interior

The interior of all Spykers is clad in the highest quality leather the industry has on offer. The Dutch Tannery of Hulshof provides the six hides used for an Spyker C8 Aileron interior in 14 standard colours, which is fitted by Ellemeijer. Any other colour so desired by the customer is available as an option.

Chronoswiss Dials are available as an option as well.

Audio System

When Spyker started production in 2003 80% of the customers ordered their cars without any audio system, the basic reasoning being that the engine provided all the sound one could possibly wish for. However, with larger numbers of cars going into the market, the demand for a standard sound system increased and cars were fitted with the system chosen by the owner. With the ever increasing success of the I-pod and similar products, the demand for a standard sound system fitted by the factory has increased to the point that every Aileron will be equipped with a Kharma sound system, incorporating a GPS system, Bluetooth, CD player and an I-pod jack. It is paired to 7 Kharma loudspeakers (see separate chapter press release).

Exterior Colours

The Spyker C8 Aileron is available in 14 standard colours but as an option customers may elect to have the car painted any colour they whish. The Spyker Squadron GT2 colour scheme with big "S"s is available as an option as well.

Squadron

Spyker Squadron - the factory GT2 team -, in partnership with its title sponsor SNORAS Bank and Speedy Racing, is proud to present its latest GT2 racer for the most famous and grueling race on the planet: the 24-Hours of Le Mans. In 2008 and 2009 Spyker Squadron will compete with two Spyker C8 Laviolette GT2Rs in both the Le Mans Series (LMS) and the 24-Hours of Le Mans.

The Laviolette GT2R replaces the successful Spyker C8 Spyder GT2R, the first Spyker that earned podium positions for the Dutch manufacturer of exclusive sports cars in the international GT arena. The new Laviolette has been built from the ground up around on a much stiffer, aluminum spaceframe with better aerodynamic qualities. Based on the team's knowledge and experience with the previous C8, a long list of components have been changed or improved. The new car is an excellent platform to continuously develop and improve pace to reach the ultimate goal: a podium position at Le Mans.

Spyker Squadron welcomes Lithuanian SNORAS Bank, as its title sponsor for the upcoming season. Like last year Spyker Squadron partners with Alexandre Pesci's Swiss dealer team Speedy Racing, sponsored by LEMO and Rebellion Horlogerie.

Car number 85 will be driven by Alexei Vasilev (RUS), Ralf Kelleners (GER) and Peter Dumbreck (GBR). The second car, number 94, will be piloted by Andrea Chiesa (SUI), Benjamin Leuenberger (SUI) and Philippe Camandona (SUI). Both at Le Mans and in the Le Mans Series the team will use Michelin tires. After two earlier tests in Estoril and Le Castellet (Paul Ricard) the team will head to Barcelona, Spain within three weeks for the first 1000km race this season: the LMS 1000km de Catalunya.