Hennessey Venom F5 - 2025

Hennessey Venom F5: Anatomy of an American Hypercar Contender

Hennessey Performance Engineering (HPE), long known for tuning American vehicles, established Hennessey Special Vehicles (HSV) in 2017 to design and build bespoke hypercars entirely in-house. Their first creation, the Venom F5, represents a significant leap from their previous Lotus-based Venom GT. Designed and built in Sealy, Texas, the F5 aims to shatter the 300 mph barrier and exceed 500 kph (approx. 311 mph), challenging established European hypercar manufacturers like Bugatti and Koenigsegg for the title of the world's fastest production car. The name "F5" references the most intense tornado category, signifying its extreme speed ambition.

At its core lies the 'Fury', a bespoke 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. In standard form, it produces a staggering 1,817 horsepower and 1,193 lb-ft of torque, with an available "Evolution" package boosting output to 2,031 hp and 1,445 lb-ft. This immense power, combined with a lightweight carbon fiber monocoque chassis (86 kg) and carbon body panels resulting in a dry weight of just 1,360 kg (2,998 lbs), gives the F5 an exceptional power-to-weight ratio (approx. 1.34 hp/kg). Hennessey claims astounding acceleration: 0-100 kph (62 mph) in 2.6 seconds, 0-200 kph (124 mph) in 4.7 seconds, and 0-400 kph (249 mph) in a class-leading 15.5 seconds. However, the ultimate goal remains the independently verified top speed exceeding 311 mph.

The 'Fury' V8 features a robust cast iron block, aluminum heads with high-performance valve components, forged internals, and twin Precision turbochargers running up to 23 psi boost. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a CIMA 7-speed single-clutch automated manual transmission or, in the limited F5-M Roadster variant, a driver-focused 6-speed gated manual transmission. The chassis boasts high torsional rigidity (52,000 Nm/degree) essential for high-speed stability. Aerodynamics emphasize smooth airflow, featuring a prominent splitter, diffuser, and a fixed rear wing on standard models (Cd=0.39), with variations like a 'Track Pack' and comprehensive revisions on the Evolution package. Handling is managed by double-wishbone suspension with adjustable Penske coilovers (adaptive dampers on Evolution), powerful Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. The driver-focused cockpit uses extensive carbon fiber, a distinctive 'yoke' steering wheel, and digital displays.

Production is highly exclusive. The initial 24 Coupes sold out quickly, priced from $1.6 million initially, rising to $2.1 million. Subsequent variants include the open-top Roadster, track-focused Revolution models, the manual F5-M Roadster (12 units, $2.6M+), and the Evolution upgrade package ($285k add-on to a base price likely around $3M). Total production is estimated around 54 units, each highly personalized.

Positioned as a uniquely "American Hypercar," the F5 competes directly with the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ and Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut. While its claimed power and acceleration figures are competitive or superior, and its power-to-weight ratio is excellent, its rear-wheel-drive, V8-centric approach contrasts with the AWD Bugatti and the technologically complex Koenigsegg. As a newer manufacturer of bespoke vehicles, Hennessey faces the challenge of building credibility. The ultimate validation for the Venom F5 project rests on achieving and independently verifying its ambitious >311 mph top speed target, a feat yet to be officially confirmed. Until then, and without extensive independent reviews, its full potential and place in hypercar history remain partially defined by its staggering claims and engineering promise.