SSC North America

Research, History, Reviews, Models, Media & More

Model List & Guides / Performance Data / Images & Videos / News & Updates

SSC North America: Pioneering the Frontier of Hypercar Performance

SSC North America, formerly known as Shelby SuperCars Inc., is a prominent player in the niche market of hypercars. Founded by Jerod Shelby in 1998, this American company has carved out a reputation for engineering some of the world's fastest and most technologically advanced production cars. Despite the common misconception, Jerod Shelby is not related to the famous car designer Carroll Shelby. Instead, he has built his own legacy in the automotive industry, driven by a passion for speed and innovation.

Origins and Early Development

The company's journey began in the late 1990s when Jerod Shelby, an engineer with a passion for performance cars, decided to create a vehicle that could challenge the dominance of European supercars. The initial focus was on building a car that could not only match but exceed the performance of the best vehicles from brands like Bugatti, Ferrari, and Koenigsegg. This ambitious goal set the stage for the creation of the SSC Ultimate Aero, the car that would put the company on the global map.

SSC Ultimate Aero: A Record-Breaking Debut

In 2007, the SSC Ultimate Aero made history by setting a new world record for the fastest production car, reaching a top speed of 256 mph (412 km/h). This achievement dethroned the Bugatti Veyron and showcased SSC's ability to engineer a hypercar capable of unparalleled performance. The Ultimate Aero's success was attributed to its powerful twin-turbocharged V8 engine, aerodynamic design, and lightweight construction, which together delivered a breathtaking driving experience.

The Ultimate Aero's record stood until 2010, when Bugatti regained the title with the Veyron Super Sport. Nevertheless, SSC had made a significant impact on the industry and set the stage for future endeavors.

Innovation and Design Philosophy

SSC North America's design philosophy revolves around pushing the boundaries of what is possible in automotive engineering. The company focuses on creating hypercars that not only achieve extreme speeds but also offer cutting-edge technology, unique designs, and a luxurious driving experience. Key aspects of SSC's design approach include:

1. High-Performance Engineering: SSC vehicles are equipped with bespoke, high-performance engines. For example, the SSC Tuatara features a 5.9-liter twin-turbo V8 engine capable of producing up to 1,750 horsepower with E85 fuel. This engine, combined with advanced aerodynamics and lightweight materials, allows the car to achieve incredible speeds.

2. Aerodynamics and Design: SSC places a strong emphasis on aerodynamics. The Tuatara, for instance, boasts a low drag coefficient of 0.279, which is crucial for achieving high top speeds. The car's design is also distinctive, featuring sharp lines, a sleek profile, and an aggressive stance that reflects its performance capabilities.

3. Innovation in Materials: SSC uses advanced materials to reduce weight and enhance performance. Carbon fiber is extensively used in the construction of the chassis and body panels, contributing to a lightweight yet strong structure.

SSC Tuatara: The Next Evolution

The SSC Tuatara, named after a New Zealand reptile known for its unique evolutionary lineage, represents the latest evolution in SSC's pursuit of speed and performance. Unveiled in 2018, the Tuatara aims to surpass the records set by its predecessor, the Ultimate Aero.

The Tuatara is powered by a bespoke 5.9-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, capable of delivering between 1,350 to 1,750 horsepower, depending on the fuel used. It features a seven-speed automated manual transmission and an advanced aerodynamic design that reduces drag and increases stability at high speeds.

In October 2020, SSC claimed that the Tuatara had set a new top speed record for production cars, reaching an average of 316.11 mph (508.73 km/h) during two runs. However, this record was later disputed due to discrepancies in the data and GPS measurements. SSC subsequently attempted another record run in January 2021, achieving an average speed of 282.9 mph (455.3 km/h). While not surpassing the claimed 316 mph, this achievement still placed the Tuatara among the fastest production cars ever made.

American Ingenuity in a Global Market

SSC North America's achievements are particularly noteworthy given the dominance of European brands in the hypercar segment. The company has proven that American engineering can compete on a global scale, offering an alternative to the established players. SSC's commitment to innovation, performance, and unique design has earned it a place in the hypercar hall of fame.

Future Prospects and Challenges

Looking ahead, SSC North America faces the challenge of maintaining its position in an increasingly competitive market. The rise of electric hypercars, with their instant torque and environmental advantages, presents a new frontier for the industry. While SSC has not yet announced plans for an electric vehicle, the company's engineering prowess suggests that it could adapt to this emerging trend if it chooses to do so.

Additionally, the challenges of regulatory compliance, particularly concerning emissions and safety standards, are critical considerations for SSC as it plans future models. The company will need to balance the pursuit of extreme performance with the evolving demands of environmental and safety regulations.

Conclusion

SSC North America's journey from a small American company to a global contender in the hypercar market is a testament to the vision and determination of its founder, Jerod Shelby. With groundbreaking models like the Ultimate Aero and the Tuatara, SSC has pushed the boundaries of automotive performance and design. As the company looks to the future, it continues to embody the spirit of innovation and challenge that defines the hypercar segment, promising exciting developments for car enthusiasts worldwide.