Blackbird Takes Off, Hennessey’s $2.5 Million SR-71-Inspired Manual Hypercar Arrives From Texas

Hennessey Special Vehicles just pulled the covers off its third hypercar, and this one plays by a very different set of rules. Named Blackbird and shaped by the Lockheed SR-71 spy plane that once owned the skies, the new car skips turbos, hybrids, and digital screens in favor of a high-revving American V8 and a gated six-speed stick. Production is capped at 71 examples, each starting at $2.5 million before taxes, with customer deliveries planned for 2029 and 2030 once Venom F5 production winds down.

The Blackbird drew inspiration from aircraft engineering, with its insanely long proportions, a crisp body-side chine line, and an extremely disciplined surface treatment that mirrors the SR-71’s distinct profile. When you reach 71 mph, the active vertical stabilizers at the back of the car rise up and lock at a 71-degree angle. That is not only an homage to the SR-71, but also a wink to the exact number of this car model that is being built. Four exhaust pipes form a diamond shape, reminiscent of the Bell X-1, the first plane to break the sound barrier. To top it all off, Formula One-style side pods and LMP1-inspired winglets complete the aggressive design. The gullwing doors lead straight into a roomy cabin, and there’s an optional Sky Glass roof with an asymmetrical tapering, a deliberate imitation of the SR-71 canopy. The two distinct wheel styles are fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.

The power comes from an all-new, large 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8, which was co-developed with Ilmor Engineering, the same company that builds IndyCar engines. Their goal for this motor is to produce 800 to 850 horsepower, with a redline that exceeds 9,000 rpms, no forced induction, and no electric assistance to smooth the ride for you. The output is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed gated manual with exposed shift linkage for all to see. To be honest, it sounds like it could rip off your arms. Performance claims include a 0-60 time of 2.5 seconds and a top speed of 220 mph. A unique full-carbon tub and carbon-fiber bodywork keep the dry weight under 3,000 pounds, and adaptive inboard suspension, traction control, and ABS complete the package.





The interior rejects all current screen foolishness. A big ol’ analog tachometer sits right in front of you. You have your regular physical switches and a good old-fashioned ignition key that needs to be turned before you can start her up. When you place your phone in a bespoke holster, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto provides some basic navigation and media options. There are four cupholders, a valet tray, and a little storage space for two full-size carry-on bags in the front trunk, as well as some more storage in the back. Designers figured that more than 800 miles in a single day shouldn’t be an issue, so there’s little noise and lots of room in the cabin for lengthy drives, and a whiskey compass and an optional timepiece come standard on the dash.





More than two-thirds of the 71 planned production units were already reserved before their public reveal on August 14 at The Quail during Monterey Car Week. Every one of them will be homologated for global markets and manufactured in Sealy, Texas. John Hennessey has described this endeavor as the beginning of a new phase for him, one focused on creating an emotional connection rather than simply pursuing speed. The Blackbird sits next to the Venom F5, a purposeful contrast, exchanging ultimate top speed for a mechanical feel that’s really enjoyable in everyday driving while still delivering insane hypercar acceleration and presence.
[Source]