UltraLight Carbon Fiber Wheels Cost $5,300 Each

Strasse Wheels has revealed an all-new lightweight wheel design made of carbon fiber and 6061-T6 forged aerospace-grade aluminum. Dubbed the UltraLight Carbon S5 RS, the company is making some big claims. Strasse Wheels says its new creation (seen here on a Ferrari SF90) is, on average, 35% lighter than regular aluminum items. Not only does the five-spoke design look great, but there are plenty of benefits in the dynamics department.

The tuning experts note improvements in handling, acceleration, and braking thanks to reduced unsprung mass. This, says the company, provides keen drivers with the “most technologically advanced performance wheel” on the market. Overall, the carbon fiber barrel is 25% lighter than aluminum barrels. In terms of design, there are plenty of options available.

Customers can choose between standard or forged carbon fiber, and specify the two-piece wheels in a gloss or matte finish. What’s more, there are an unlimited amount of center finish options; as seen by the SF90 above, you can even fit OEM badging to the aftermarket wheels. At $5,300 a piece, they’re undeniably expensive but Strasse Wheels notes each carbon fiber wheel (available from 18 to 23 inches) is made to fit a specific vehicle.

However, those seeking lightweight aftermarket wheels have plenty of choices these days. In June, HRE Wheels unveiled the CRBN series and proudly described it as the “highest strength-to-weight ratio wheel” currently available. Like the UltraLight Carbon S5 RS, HRE’s performance wheel is also built to order. But, priced at $6,350 each, it’s even more expensive than the alloys from Strasse Wheels.

Strasse Wheels notes the UltraLight Carbon S5 RS is well-suited to high-performance vehicles and supercars but has said the design is “available for all vehicle applications.” The design can also be specified for centerlock or six-lug applications. Interestingly, HRE’s equivalent has been designed exclusively for supercars and exotics.

Both are undeniably expensive accessories but, for the Ferrari owner looking for an improved driving experience, the outlay may be worth it. As with anything, it won’t be long before this design and technology trickle down into the mainstream segment. Ford has already said it wants to offer carbon fiber wheels on trucks and SUVs. “[There are] weight savings. It looks great. And customers love it. They’re willing to pay,” said the company’s Ali Jammoul.