Unique panels, carbonfibre for future HSVs

THE born-again HSV GTSR gives clues to future models from the Holden performance sub-brand, all of which will be imported from 2018.

Plastic (or polypropelene) panels and carbonfibre components used on the GTSR W1 have given HSV the confidence to continue using the technologies that will allow further freedoms for design and engineering.

HSV chief designer Julian Quincey said the W1 had been a learning experience and one that would be translated to future models.

“Plastic front guard is the perfect example of just by trying something that little bit differently you can then apply that learning on to the next product, and it’s pretty much applicable across the board,” said Quincey.

“It was a technology that allowed us to get a unique shape without having to invest in unique pressing. It allowed us the freedom to come up with the shape we wanted.”

Quincey says such technology could possibly be used for other panels on future HSVs, which will include the Colorado ute and, likely, one of Holden’s upcoming SUVs.

“It is totally possible; it’s that question of investment, piece cost, development time, of course, and then how that plays out in terms of a final price on the vehicle. If you can get all those things working together … then it’s definitely something you apply across the board.”

Quincey also said the track-ready tyres, in this case produced by Pirelli, were another area HSV could look to up the performance and dynamics of future Holdens.

“Perhaps the tyre technology is something that might be applicable to other products as well.”

Now that HSV has learnt more about carbonfibre and found a quality supplier it’s likely the material used extensively in Formula One cars, road-going supercars and modern jetliners will be used on future HSVs.

As for the future, HSV managing director Tim Jackson is tight-lipped for now, only saying the company is working on new models.

“We are in the process of figuring out what the next car looks like,” said Jackson. “We know it needs to deliver on all the things that people have expected from HSV in terms of performance and styling.

“That’s for our creative engineers to figure out how we’re going to do that and deliver the next product that’s going to excite our customer base.”

As for whether HSV will better the 474kW/815Nm or the 0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds performance of the W1, Jackson was predictably coy.

“It’s the most powerful for now.”