The BAC Mono
Showcased on the latest episode of Top Gear, the BAC Mono is a newcomer to the ultralight arena. Going up against the likes of the Ariel Atom and the Caterham, it has some pretty tough competition.
Photos: Tom Ziora
Introducing Mono, a lightweight, ultra high performance, road legal supercar designed and manufactured using the latest racing technology. Aimed at drivers who seek a purist driving experience and for whom design, engineering excellence and performance are of paramount importance, Mono is an aggressive design and will set a new benchmark in the small, but elite segment of radical, lightweight sports cars.
The single central-seat gave our designers and project engineers the ultimate blank canvas on which to assemble their dream. The organic, enclosed front and exposed mechanical rear typifies the unique appearance of Mono. The design aesthetic is intended to combine sculpted, sleek, organic forms to provide an emotional, human connection juxtaposing the technical, mechanical elements of the car.
While this vision runs throughout Mono’s appearance it was fundamental to our designers that form follow function on all aspects of the car. The necessity to gain access to the central driving position and adjustable dampers as well as providing clean airflow to the radiators and engine are just some of the factors on which Mono’s architecture is built.
Above all else Mono has been designed to optimise the driving position – in the middle, central to the wheels, and the balance of the car. Mono is constructed using high-strength carbon fibre composite around a steel safety cell. The cell is designed to offer maximum safety featuring a FIA compliant steel rollover structure, a sophisticated side impact structure and a front carbon crashbox.
Powering Mono is a longitudinally mounted 2.3 litre, 280 bhp four cylinder power plant provided by Cosworth. Coupled to that engine is an F-3 spec 6-speed sequential gearbox from Hewland.
Suspension is a fully-adjustable pushrod suspension with damping elements made by SACHS Racing.
Fitted with 295mm ventilated discs, AP Racing brakes provide stopping power. Tyre manufacturer Kumho has used their vast experience in motorsport and road cars to develop a special rubber compound for Mono, which is designed to work with the low weight and optimized pushrod suspension.
Mono’s central driving position makes the driver an integral component of the car, creating an unparalleled synergy between man and machine. With this in mind, each customer is fitted for his or her seat, pedal reach and preferred driving position.
For more information and photos, check out BAC’s website here.
