Hennessey's Next "Blackbird" Hypercar to Ride on Forgeline Wheels
For more than three decades, Hennessey has built a reputation by chasing ever-greater levels of performance. From the Venom GT to the Venom F5, the Texas-based manufacturer has consistently pushed the limits of what a road car can achieve. The next chapter of Hennessey's hypercar story diverges from the mainstream with the introduction of the all-new Blackbird, a machine designed around something increasingly rare in today's automotive landscape: driver engagement.
Inspired by the legendary Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird aircraft, the new Hennessey Blackbird is an aerospace-influenced grand touring hypercar that emphasizes connection between driver and machine over headline-grabbing horsepower figures. While modern hypercars continue to move toward hybrid powertrains, advanced driver aids, and increasingly digital interfaces, the Blackbird embraces an intentionally analog philosophy. Hennessey describes the car as a response to a world increasingly defined by screens, automation, and isolation.
Power comes from an all-new naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 developed in partnership with Ilmor Engineering. Hennessey is targeting approximately 800 to 850 horsepower and engine speeds exceeding 9,000 rpm. The powerplant is paired exclusively with a six-speed gated manual transmission that sends power to the rear wheels, creating an experience that has become increasingly uncommon among modern hypercars.
The Blackbird's dedication to driver involvement extends throughout the vehicle. The cabin eliminates traditional infotainment screens in favor of physical controls, an analog-inspired layout, and a focus on the essentials of driving. Hennessey says the Blackbird was developed for customers who value emotion, engagement, and long-distance usability as much as outright performance.
Built around an all-new carbon-fiber chassis and body structure with a target weight below 3,000 pounds, the Blackbird combines lightweight construction with striking design inspired by the SR-71 aircraft. Active vertical stabilizers, aerospace-influenced surfacing, and dramatic proportions make it clear that this is not merely another evolution of the Venom F5. According to Hennessey, the Blackbird represents an entirely new direction for the company and its third hypercar platform following the Venom GT and Venom F5.
Adding to the excitement for us, the new Blackbird rides on Forgeline wheels. Hennessey and Forgeline have a long history together, from the world-record-setting Venom GT to multiple versions of the Venom F5. The Blackbird continues that relationship as Hennessey embarks on a new chapter focused on analog performance, timeless design, and an uncompromising connection between driver and machine.
Production of the Blackbird will be limited to just 71 examples worldwide, with pricing starting at $2.5 million. That makes it one of the most exclusive vehicles ever produced by Hennessey, and a rare modern hypercar dedicated to analog performance and driver involvement.
Congratulations to the entire Hennessey team on the introduction of the Blackbird, and thank you for your continued trust in Forgeline.
For more than three decades, Hennessey has built a reputation by chasing ever-greater levels of performance. From the Venom GT to the Venom F5, the Texas-based manufacturer has consistently pushed the limits of what a road car can achieve. The next chapter of Hennessey's hypercar story diverges from the mainstream with the introduction of the all-new Blackbird, a machine designed around something increasingly rare in today's automotive landscape: driver engagement.
Inspired by the legendary Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird aircraft, the new Hennessey Blackbird is an aerospace-influenced grand touring hypercar that emphasizes connection between driver and machine over headline-grabbing horsepower figures. While modern hypercars continue to move toward hybrid powertrains, advanced driver aids, and increasingly digital interfaces, the Blackbird embraces an intentionally analog philosophy. Hennessey describes the car as a response to a world increasingly defined by screens, automation, and isolation.
Power comes from an all-new naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 developed in partnership with Ilmor Engineering. Hennessey is targeting approximately 800 to 850 horsepower and engine speeds exceeding 9,000 rpm. The powerplant is paired exclusively with a six-speed gated manual transmission that sends power to the rear wheels, creating an experience that has become increasingly uncommon among modern hypercars.
The Blackbird's dedication to driver involvement extends throughout the vehicle. The cabin eliminates traditional infotainment screens in favor of physical controls, an analog-inspired layout, and a focus on the essentials of driving. Hennessey says the Blackbird was developed for customers who value emotion, engagement, and long-distance usability as much as outright performance.
Built around an all-new carbon-fiber chassis and body structure with a target weight below 3,000 pounds, the Blackbird combines lightweight construction with striking design inspired by the SR-71 aircraft. Active vertical stabilizers, aerospace-influenced surfacing, and dramatic proportions make it clear that this is not merely another evolution of the Venom F5. According to Hennessey, the Blackbird represents an entirely new direction for the company and its third hypercar platform following the Venom GT and Venom F5.
Adding to the excitement for us, the new Blackbird rides on Forgeline wheels. Hennessey and Forgeline have a long history together, from the world-record-setting Venom GT to multiple versions of the Venom F5. The Blackbird continues that relationship as Hennessey embarks on a new chapter focused on analog performance, timeless design, and an uncompromising connection between driver and machine.
Production of the Blackbird will be limited to just 71 examples worldwide, with pricing starting at $2.5 million. That makes it one of the most exclusive vehicles ever produced by Hennessey, and a rare modern hypercar dedicated to analog performance and driver involvement.
Congratulations to the entire Hennessey team on the introduction of the Blackbird, and thank you for your continued trust in Forgeline.
