Scarperia, 26 October 2019 – The new version of the 488 GT3, which will
compete in the main international GT championships in 2020, has just
been unveiled at the Ferrari Finali Mondiali at Mugello. The new Evo
package is the result of Ferrari’s desire to further refine certain
aspects of one of the most successful cars in the marque’s history. This
has been achieved using innovative concepts derived from its track
experience and feedback from the teams competing with the 488 GT3.
Aerodynamics, vehicle dynamics, ergonomics, safety and reliability were
the main focuses of development, all, of course, in compliance with the
strict power and aerodynamic efficiency performance limits imposed by
FIA regulations.
The engineers honed the 488 GT3 Evo 2020’s aerodynamics to boost the
car’s stability with the new front-end design making a significant
contribution. Over 18,000 hours of calculations and CFD simulations,
followed by wind tunnel testing, went into the design of a new bumper
with a smaller frontal section under the headlights. This has allowed
the introduction of a pair of flicks to generate more downforce, making
the car more stable without modifying the aero balance thanks in part to
turning vanes inside the splitter. Aerodynamic development also
extended to other areas of the front of the 488 GT3: the vents on top
the wings are larger than the current model and the front section of the
door is now more tapered to more efficiently channel lateral flows. The
vents on the rear wing have also been completely redesigned.
The 488 GT3’s vehicle dynamics have been key in its success, and this
area has been further improved in the new 488 GT3 Evo 2020. The
wheelbase is longer, as in the 488 GTE, to optimise tyre use, reduce
tyre wear and facilitate the conversion from GT3 to GTE. The engineers
also focused on reducing the car’s weight with the result that more
ballast can be used to attain the minimum weight imposed by the Balance
of Performance, thus lowering the centre of gravity. In addition all the
vehicle dynamic controls, including the traction control and ABS, have
been optimised.
No performance upgrades have been made to the engine, a twin-turbo V8
with a 90-degree angle between the cylinder banks, nor have any
components been modified. However, it does benefit from a new engine
management system which improves reliability and guarantees smoother,
more precise torque delivery.
Endurance racing has evolved to the extent that it is increasingly
resembling extended sprint racing. This demands meticulous attention to
detail, including in the cockpit. The 488 GT3 Evo 2020 debuts a new seat
which meets the new FIA safety regulations. Developed jointly with
Sabelt for both the GT3 and GTE, it is not only more rigid and robust
but is also 2.4 kg lighter with new belts and a new buckle.
The additional 24H/Endurance package is specifically designed for
clients interested in that particular type of racing. The basic
equipment includes a front bumper with additional headlights, quick-fill
couplings for engine oil and coolant, carbon-fibre clutch, brake
callipers adopted from the GTE and steel wheel nuts. Optional features
include sensors for the coolant level and refuelling completion with
warning lights, and Le Mans-type, 4,500 lumen LED main headlights.