BAC launches new-gen Mono | GRR
BAC has pulled the wraps from its latest Mono, which promises to be more advanced, more powerful and lighter than ever.
The second generation of its single-seater implements a turbocharger for the first time, supporting its new Mountune-developed 2.3-litre in-line four. Making 337PS (332bhp), this powertrain is 27PS more powerful than its predecessor, with an impressive 400Nm of torque. As a result, the new £165,950 Mono will reportedly be able to reach 60mph from a standstill in 2.7 seconds, before achieving a top speed of 170mph.
Thanks to a new dry sump system and repositioned battery, the mass of the engine sits lower in the car, thus improving the centre of gravity, while uprated chassis and transmission components also feature. The new Mono meets the latest EU6D emissions and European drive-by noise regulations, making it road legal across the continent.
Combined with its reduced 570kg weight, the model will boast an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 590PS-per-tonne – that’s 58PS-per-tonne higher than the original Mono.
This 10kg weight saving has been achieved by following the example of the Mono R, with the use of graphene-enhanced carbon-fibre, more than 40 3D printed components, and lightweight weeks – at just 2.2kg per wheel, they’re 35 per cent lighter than before. The angled shark nose, meanwhile, reduces frontal area and improves aerodynamics. In total, the new Mono sees a 20mm reduction in height and a 25mm increase in length over the previous iteration.
Other aerodynamic elements inherited from the Mono R include the front arches and wider sidepods for enhanced cooling, plus a larger spoiler extending over the rear arches. Lower surfaces are thinner to effectively divert airflow. The carbon fibre floor and Lightweight AP Racing brake callipers are also carried over from the R, while optional carbon-ceramic brakes are available.
New twin-strut wing mirrors, rear crash box and a narrower tail incorporating new LED combination fog and reverse lights complete the exterior, while lighter carbon steering wheel and optional carbon side panels are available.
From behind the wheel, BAC promise a reduction in pitch under braking, plus increased anti-dive at the front and anti-squat at the rear. This is thanks to revised suspension geometry plus two-way adjustable Öhlins dampers, which combine to reduce braking distances and weight transfer and traction in corners.