The Texas-based company has eschewed an all-electric successor for a lightweight, combustion-powered supercar with a manual gearbox.
Improving an outgoing model is relatively easy when you're a regular carmaker. But what if you're Hennessey? It's difficult to top the Venom F5, a road-going monster producing 1,817 horsepower and 1,193 lb-ft of torque from its twin-turbocharged 6.6-liter V8. However, CEO John Hennessey has shared with Top Gear that the F5's successor may take inspiration from an unusual source.
The speed-obsessed tuner from Texas told the publication that Porsche's Carrera GT – the iconic, V10-powered supercar from the early 2000s – is what Hennessey aims to recreate. So, what does that mean? For one, it means customers can look forward to an open-top car with a heavy emphasis on raw performance.
The Carrera GT is loved for its gorgeous looks, lack of driver aids, slick-shifting manual 'box, and naturally aspirated motor that revs up to 8,400 rpm.
Based on additional hints dropped by Hennessey, it would be safe to assume the brand's next supercar won't chase high-speed records and acceleration figures. Make no mistake, it will be fast, but breaking records won't be its raison d'etre.
The current Venom F5 has a claimed top speed of 300 mph, but this is yet to be verified. Hennessey is determined to see its supercar hit this incredible figure and is looking to attempt the record this year.
But hang on: wasn't Hennessey working on a six-wheeled electric car called Deep Space? The CEO says that's still in the cards, but it won't replace the beloved Venom F5. The automaker's customer base has demanded a gas-powered model to satisfy their speed-related needs.
According to Hennessey, customers believe it's too early to go electric.
They desire ICE-powered vehicles to be offered for as long as possible, and the company has decided to listen. As for when this Carrera GT-inspired model will arrive, it is reported that a debut will take place in 2027 or 2028 once all 100 examples of the Venom F5 have been delivered to customers.
At this stage, just 20 lucky individuals, including NBA legend Michael Jordan, have been handed the keys to their supercar.
It will be interesting to see whether the Venom F5's successor will be styled after the Carrera GT or take after the characteristics of the Porsche. Either way, it will be an exhilarating vehicle, as Stuttgart's most iconic supercar is still considered one of the most fantastic driving machines ever made.
We're just elated that while the rest of the automotive industry chased electrification, Hennessey is holding on to the combustion engine for a bit longer.
Keyword: Legendary German Supercar Will Inspire Hennessey's F5 Venom Replacement