Shelby Supercars has updated its supercar, the Ultimate Aero. For 2009 there is a power boost as well as aerodynamic improvements and an updated interior.

A new and stronger aluminium engine block allows power to be increased to 1,269bhp. That power is sufficient for a top speed of 270mph - or so the manufacturer claims.

The body has been updated with improve aerodynamics too: the front end has been re-shaped while carbon fibre louvres channel more air into the side-mounted radiators. Also new for 2009 is the AeroBrake, a rear spoiler linked to the brake pedal. The angle of the spoiler increases as the driver presses the brake pedal. As a result, high-speed braking is accompanied by an increase in downforce to keep the car stable.

Carbon fibre features heavily in the revised interior and the instruments include an analogue speedometer and tachometer. The rev-counter incorporates a change light in the needle itself. An on board information and entertainment system offers all the functions of a personal computer and looks after the SSC's onboard diagnostic software.

At the moment there is no word on UK pricing but expect it to be on the wrong side of £400,000.

John Lambert - 19 Dec 2008