Alcoa Wheels Selected for Lightweight Lamborghini

On Apr. 23 it announced the selection of Alcoa Auto Wheels to supply lightweight wheels for the Lamborghini MurciÉlago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce (SV). The forged aluminium wheels to be supplied, says Alcoa, reduce un-sprung weight and contribute to the SV shedding 100 kilograms as compared with the standard MurciÉlago.

“The new MurciÉlago SV is the product of a substantial cross-car weight reduction program and forged wheels are vital to meeting this goal,” explains David Yates, marketing manager for Alcoa Auto Wheels – Europe. "The engineering behind Alcoa’s forged aluminium wheels enables a 20% weight savings over a comparable cast aluminium wheel, benefiting handling and ride.”

According to Alcoa, the five twin-spoke design results in a superior metal structure that improves strength and durability, offering the opportunity to create very strong and lightweight wheels. The 18×8.5-inch front wheel weighs just 8.9 kilograms. The 18×13-inch rear wheel weighs just 12.3 kilograms. Lowering the unsprung mass at each corner, Alcoa adds, results in more responsive steering, braking and suspension input all while optimising performance and efficiency for SuperVeloce drivers.

“The SV application highlights Alcoa’s commitment to developing a lighter and better wheel for automotive OEMs,” concludes Yates. (Tyres & Accessories/Staffordshire/U.K.)

Ascot Supply Corporation, based in Newnan, Georgia, has selected Mark Paquette for the newly created position of vice president. In this position, Ascot Supply said Paquette will oversee the growth of the company's products, corporate profitability, manage marketing and advertising and assume many other responsibilities.

He will work under the direction of current President David Kessler and officially begin his new role on June 3. Paquette joined the tire and automotive industry in the early 1980s at his father's tire shop, and his contributions to Mohawk Rubber Sales were instrumental in the company's growth and eventual sale to Myers Tire Supply in 2021, according to Ascot Supply. Paquette eventually was given a promotion to the role of director of operations at Myers Tire Supply.