Ferrari goes feral in Geneva

Melbourne may have missed out this year, but that didn't mean the 2009 Geneva motor show missed out on a strong showing of Ferrari models.

Among the Modena models on display was the new "Handling GT Evolutzione" (HGTE) version of the 599 GTB Fiorano that wields the monstrous force of its 65-degree 456kW/608Nm 6.0-litre V12 with even more authority.

The HGTE (pictured), according to Ferrari, provides the 599 with "an even more aggressive, responsive and laser-sharp response on the road and on the track."

But the trick Fiorano pales beside the new Ferrari 599XX also on display in Geneva.

Following in the wheeltracks of the wild Enzo-based FXX the new 599XX is a racetrack-only special and is destined to fall only into the hands of a select group of customers.

Ferrari are calling the car a development project for its next supercar and anyone who buys one will become an officiail Ferrar test driver. According to the official press release the car "targets owners looking for the purest Ferrari driving experience, unfettered by the rules and regulations on the public roads."

Rumour is that ex F1 champ Michael Schumacher had a hand in development of the 599XX, which would hardly come as a surprise, and there is also speculation Ferrari could be using the car as a test bed for its Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) that will be introduced to F1 racing this season.

Prices and availability of the 599XX is only provided to prospective customers.

The Fiorano HGTE and 599XX were joined on the Geneva stand by a full complement of road Ferraris including the Scuderia Spider 16M, F430 Scuderia, the California and the flagship 612 Scaglietti.