GTO Squalo adopts Hewland ’box

GTO Engineering has announced that it is partnering up with Hewland for the transmission in its new Squalo model. The five-speed transaxle gearbox, which also houses a limited-slip differential, should weigh less than 70kg and is claimed to be among the most compact packages ever seen.

GTO Engineering founder Mark Lyon said: “We’ve chosen to partner with Hewland, who have a unique presence in the market, as not only do they have access to design for ‘gold standard’ gearboxes for ultimate driver engagement, but also vast experience in adapting and overcoming engineering challenges.”

The Squalo is a bespoke-build car that mixes modern and classic design elements. Its profile has clear echoes of Ferrari’s 250 GT SWB but it features a double-bubble roof, LED lights and bespoke 18-inch wheels. Underneath are aluminium subframes, independent suspension all round and modern brakes. With a carbonfibre body, plus aluminium doors and bonnet, overall weight will be below 1000kg. GTO’s new 4.0-litre quad-cam V12 engine weighs only 165kg, produces 460hp and revs to 10,000rpm. Production of the Squalo will start in 2023, with orders open now, priced at £1.28 million each.