2020 Evo Ferrari 488 GT3 Unveiled
Ferrari unveiled their 2020 Evo version of the 488 GT3 yesterday at the Ferrari Finali Mondiali at Mugello.
The package, available as a new car or as an upgrade kit for existing cars addresses a host of refinements in aerodynamics, vehicle dynamics, ergonomics, safety and reliability.
The 488 GT3 Evo 2020’s aerodynamics have been honed to boost the car’s stability with a 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 of 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 designed to improve reliability and giving smoother, more precise torque delivery.
The 488 GT3 Evo 2020 also debuts a new seat which meets the new FIA safety regulations.
Developed jointly with Sabelt for both the GT3 and GTE, the new seat is not only more rigid and
robust but is also 2.4 kg lighter with new belts and a new buckle.
The optional 24H/Endurance package 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.