Tag: GT3

Ford Mustang GT3 Racecar

The best-known sports car will compete in the world’s most iconic endurance race as the Ford Mustang GT3 takes on the challenge of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June 2024.

The Mustang GT3 race car, based on the all-new 2024 Mustang Dark Horse, was unveiled to the racing world today during the centenary celebration on the eve of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Mustang race car boasts a bold, colorful new look from Troy Lee, who is recognized as one of the premier motorsports designers in the world. The legendary Mustang GT3 represents Lee’s first foray with Ford race cars.

With the reveal, Ford officially enters Mustang into the global FIA GT3 category. Ford’s most recent triumph at the 24 Hours of Le Mans was in 2016 with the Ford GT.

“Ford and Le Mans are bound together by history. And now we’re coming back to the most dramatic, most rewarding and most important race in the world. It is not Ford versus Ferrari anymore. It is Ford versus everyone. Going back to Le Mans is the beginning of building a global motorsports business with Mustang, just like we are doing with Bronco and Raptor off-road.”
-Jim Farley, Ford Motor Company CEO
Fresh Branding, New Logo

To coincide with the unveiling, Ford also is revealing new, global Ford Performance branding – a cleaner, simplified look that will now be featured on all its racing vehicles.

This expressive and engaging new identity will help position Ford Performance as a standout lifestyle brand with a sporting mindset. The new Ford Performance mark is easier to integrate across various environments and spaces, including car liveries, merchandise/apparel, display assets, parts/accessories and in advertising.

Continuing Relationships with Two Longtime Partners

Ford Performance extended its relationship with two longtime partners in Multimatic and M-Sport for the basis of this project. Multimatic, builders of the iconic Ford GT, were also involved in the Ford GT race program and will help build and support the Mustang GT3s, while longtime World Rally Championship partner and two-time championship winning team M-Sport will assemble the Ford Performance-developed 5.4-liter Coyote-based V8 engines that power this powerful new pony.

“For a project like the Mustang GT3, we turned to two of our most trusted partners in the motorsports world to help bring this vehicle and program together,” said Mark Rushbrook, Global Director, Ford Performance Motorsports. “I know we’ll all be as thrilled as Ford fans when Mustang begins racing at the highest levels of GT racing in 2024.”

The Mustang GT3 race car features a bespoke short-long arm suspension, rear-mounted transaxle gearbox, carbon fiber body panels, as well as a unique aero package developed to meet GT3 targets.

Proton Competition Becomes First WEC Customer Team for Mustang GT3

Before going to Le Mans in 2024, the Mustang GT3 will compete in various GT3 series across the globe in the hands of customer teams.

The first customer team, announced today, is Proton Competition. Based in Ehingen, Germany, Proton intends to campaign a pair of Mustang GT3s in the FIA World Endurance Championship, starting in 2024.

“This is a very important program and an exciting moment for our organization,” said Proton Competition team principal Christian Ried. “The Mustang is a great brand and this is an important step for our team. We look forward to joining with Ford starting in 2024.”

Ford Performance will also field a two-car factory race program with Mustang GT3 in IMSA’s GTD Pro class. This will be managed by Multimatic Motorsports and begin at the 2024 Rolex 24 at Daytona.

June 12, 2023
2022 DMC Porsche 992 GT3 “Velocita”

DMC, a German tuning company, has expanded its line-up of tuning packages by introducing the latest 992 GT3 to its offerings, marking its entry into the Porsche market. The company has developed an all-new aerodynamic package for the 992 GT3 models that adds a sporty and stylish look to the car’s appearance. The package includes lightweight carbon aero front fenders with wheel arch louvers, wide carbon side skirts, and ultra-lightweight carbon fiber parts that replace the front bumper’s inner grill, rear diffuser, and front hood design. These carbon parts are not yet available from OEM Porsche. The most notable feature of the package is the massive 175 cm rear wing that is FIA conform and TUV certified. The design of the carbon parts is inspired by GT3-RS lines, providing the car with an aggressive appearance.

According to DMC, the company aimed to offer its customers a chance to experience the GT3RS appearance without compromising on comfort. The use of DMC’s Aero-Kit allows the regular GT3 to achieve a similar or even better look than the GT3RS. The carbon parts provided by DMC replace the original components and reduce the car’s weight, providing a weight advantage. For example, DMC’s version of the front fenders and larger wing can be installed with the GT3’s original connection brackets. The carbon rear spoiler profile has a new and distinctive design with DMC lettering, and the wing end plates are enlarged in the driving direction and downwards to create a striking racing look while maintaining the vehicle’s aerodynamic balance.

DMC’s carbon kit for the 911 GT3 allows car owners to customize the kit’s parts to match their vehicle, with the option of matte or high gloss visible carbon fiber. Furthermore, DMC has also introduced a new sports exhaust system made of titanium for the Porsche 911 GT3 models. This valve-controlled sports exhaust system by ZESAD GmbH in Germany produces a sound festival that enhances the car’s performance-oriented driving experience. The exhaust system is specifically designed for the Porsche 911 GT3 and GT3 with the touring package.

In addition to the carbon kit and sports exhaust system, DMC has developed a new lightweight forged wheel named DMC Velocita. The engineering team has designed a new directional forged wheel with various surface finishes customized for each vehicle. The wheel size for the Porsche 911 GT3 is 9.5 x 20 inches at the front and 12 x 21 inches at the back.

October 14, 2022

Mercedes-Benz AMG GT3 Edition 55

For its 55th anniversary, AMG presents a highly exclusive race car, the Mercedes-AMG GT3 EDITION 55. Only five units of the special series will be hand-built at the race car manufactory in Affalterbach. Next to its limitation, the GT3 shines with unique technical characteristics and many specific equipment features, making it a coveted collectors’ piece, from the striking edition design via high-quality visible carbon elements up to the optimised engine performance. Moreover, the special edition comes with an EDITION 55 – 1 OF 5 box, containing an exclusive IWC time piece with engraved chassis number.

“Motorsport is what drives us.” The words by AMG founder Hans Werner Aufrecht have been a leitmotiv for the performance and sports car brand from Affalterbach for 55 years. Accordingly numerous and legendary are the race track achievements from the past five decades, from the sensational class win of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.8 AMG in the 24 Hours of Spa in 1971 up to the historic 1-2 by the Mercedes-AMG GT3 in this year’s running of the same race. As a homage to its rich motorsport heritage, Mercedes-AMG now presents its current GT3 Customer Racing car in a strictly limited EDITION 55.

The quantity of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 EDITION 55 has been limited to five. To guarantee and to document the minimal production run, a specific range of numbers (“GT3.190-55”) was created for the chassis numbers of the five units. Beyond that, the special series has numerous specific characteristics compared to the car it is based on. Among others, the EDITION 55 isn’t FIA homologated and can therefore come up with more engine power: the optimised AMG 6.3 litre V8 engine delivers 650 hp, amounting to around 100 hp more than in the FIA version. Appropriately, the performance exhaust system made of Inconel comes without a silencer, generating an even more characteristic sound pattern as a result.

A maximum of exclusivity is also in place when it comes to the colour and the design of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 EDITION 55: its special finish in MANUFAKTUR alpine grey uni with red accents perfectly complements the matte finish of the aero components in visible carbon (front diffuser, rear diffuser, rear wing including end plates, flicks, louvre, radiator grille, side skirts). The Affalterbach crest has been painted on the doors of the slick-shod special edition. Next to the AMG logo, the 55 year anniversary logo also adorns the rear wing.

In the functional racing cockpit, the Mercedes-AMG GT3 EDITION 55 shows exclusive details. The seat embroidery includes the anniversary symbol and plaques with “EDITION 55 – 1 OF 5” inscription can be found on the centre console and the carbon seat. The matte Anthracite metallic is characteristic for the interior with the high-quality visible carbon elements harmoniously blending in, from the door sills, door covers and centre console to the dashboard. Another optical feature in the interior are the seat belts with silver accents.

As a technical highlight, the cockpit of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 EDITION 55 includes a Data Display Unit (DDU) of the latest generation. The Bosch DDU 11 has a high-resolution graphic display to show relevant information like speed, engine speed, operating temperatures, lap times, gear and shift indication and additional information. A special eye-catcher is the appearance of the 55 year anniversary logo when the Mercedes-AMG GT3 EDITION 55 is started.

Next to the numerous special equipment features, the exclusive AMG GT3 also comes with a tailor-made and specially designed car cover. Another highlight comes from Mercedes-AMG co-operation partner IWC Schaffhausen: exclusively for the launch of the car, the Swiss luxury watch maker has created a limited EDITION 55 box that contains a Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition “AMG” (Reference IW377903). The chassis number of the corresponding Mercedes-AMG GT3 EDITION 55 has been engraved on the back of the watch case made of grade 5 titanium. The box also contains a black textile strap. The high-quality time piece will be handed over in an IWC Boutique near the buyer’s residence.

With the Mercedes-AMG GT3 EDITION 55, Mercedes-AMG is expanding its portfolio of special series at the occasion of the brand’s 55th anniversary. Next to the GT3, there are further Edition cars based on various Mercedes-AMG production models. The sales price of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 EDITION 55 is 625,000 Euros (VAT not included).

Christoph Sagemüller, head of Mercedes-AMG Motorsport: “With the Mercedes-AMG GT3 EDITION 55, we acknowledge the 55-year history of our brand once again this year. It is a reverence to the many unforgettable motorsport moments we have been able to collect in over five decades at the race tracks of this world. We have strictly limited the production of this special edition: there are only five unites, all equipped with high-quality special features and added elements. That makes the Mercedes-AMG GT3 EDITION 55 to a collector’s piece that can hardly be exceeded in terms of exclusivity.”

Mercedes-AMG GT3 EDITION 55*:

Special features interior	Special finish chassis: Anthracite metallic matte
	Bosch DDU 11 display with anniversary logo
	Seat embroidery with anniversary logo
	Seat belts with silver accents
	Plaque “EDITION 55 – 1 OF 5“
	Visible carbon with matte finish for dashboard, door sills, door covers, air duct, centre console, fuel tank cover
Special features exterior	Special finish: MANUFAKTUR alpine grey uni (956)
	Performance exhaust made of Inconel without silencer
	Optimised engine performance
	Painted Affalterbach crest on the doors
	Painted rear wing with AMG logo and anniversary logo
	Visible carbon with matte finish for front diffuser, rear diffuser, rear wing incl. end plates, flicks, louvre, radiator grille, side skirts
	Limited car cover with anniversary logo
	Delivery with slick tyres
IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition “AMG”	Limitited EDITION 55 box with plaque “EDITION 55 – 1 OF 5”
	Engraved chassis number
	Additional strap
	Handing over at an IWC Boutique in the buyer’s country

* upon specific customer request, a production with FIA homologation is possible

August 23, 2022

Porsche 911 GT3 RS Carrera RS 2.7 Tribute

The 2023 Porsche 911 GT3 RS made its first in-person appearance today at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, only two days after its digital world premiere. The show car – customized by the GT Model Line and Style Porsche – is a tribute to the 1972 911 Carrera RS 2.7. Additionally, as announced by Kjell Gruner, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America Inc. (PCNA), the car will serve as inspiration for a limited-availability Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur offering exclusive to U.S. customers: a Tribute to Carrera RS Package.

“America is the second home of the 911 and a special tribute exclusive to the U.S. is the perfect way to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 911 Carrera RS 2.7,” said Gruner. “So many of us idolized the original 1972 car. We want to create a special experience that combines exclusive options on the new GT3 RS with a one-of-a-kind list of accompanying items. Together, it will be an exciting and individual tribute to the RS lineage. This is a live project in its early stages, and is being created by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts as a joint effort between our colleagues in Zuffenhausen, Flacht and our team in America. The ideas and concepts are really exciting and we’re having a lot of fun developing it – all of us are looking forward to sharing more details with you soon.”

Appropriately for Monterey Car Week, the model on display is extensively personalized. Finished in white with key areas in Python Green, the car is a direct reference to the iconic white and green color configuration offered in 1972 on the first 911 “RS” model as well as a new interpretation of it. In this instance, the body is finished in non-metallic white including side air intakes painted to match with model designation graphics on the sides and rear in Python Green, forged aluminum wheels in Python Green with white pinstripes. Exclusive Design taillights emphasize the green-on-white theme by eliminating the red color from the rear taillights and third brake light. Finally, the side plates on the left and right ends of the large rear wing are painted white with RS logos in Python Green.

“Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur allows customers to personalize their car to a point where the vehicle is as much a reflection of them as it is of Porsche,” said Karl-Heinz Volz, Director of Exclusive Manufaktur Options. “Personalization is a Porsche tradition dating back to our first production model, the 356, when a customer requested a wiper be added to the rear window of their car. Today it is an incredibly extensive personalization program, offering options ranging from small changes to true one-off creations.”

The headlights also feature a pinstripe ring in white, something that is not available via the normal list of factory-available options. The color combination continues inside the car with matching stitching, trim panels in white to match the exterior.

“As a car enthusiast growing up, my walls were plastered with models that I was particularly fond of. One of the most influential was the 911 Carrera RS 2.7. As a young kid it captured me imagination and even today it puts a smile on my face,” said Andreas Preuninger, Director GT Model Lines. “That’s where the styling inspiration of the 996 GT3 RS came from, which was one of my first projects at Porsche. At the time, that car felt totally extreme so colors nodding to the forefather made sense. Today, it’s a very emotional moment for me to pay tribute to the first 911 RS model with our most extreme and capable 911 GT3 RS yet.”

About the 2023 911 GT3 RS
The 2023 Porsche 911 GT3 RS is the most extreme street-legal 911 model yet. Its 4.0-liter naturally aspirated boxer six-cylinder engine generates 518 hp, and revs to 9,000 rpm. That power is routed exclusively to the rear wheels via a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission. Making extensive use of motorsport-derived aerodynamics, it generates more than 900 lbs. of downforce at 124 mph and 1,895 lbs of downforce at 177 mph. This is also the first example of a 911 GT3 RS with active aerodynamics, a feature that is used to offer incredible levels of downforce, provide deceleration assistance by creating an air brake, and by offering a Drag Reduction System (DRS) that can reposition aerodynamic elements to cut drag at the driver’s command in certain conditions.

About the 1972 / 1973 911 Carrera RS 2.7
Fifty years ago, the world knew the 911 Carrera RS 2.7 as Germany’s fastest sports car. It began as a homologation special and featured many technological innovations. It was the most powerful version of the first-generation 911, generating 210 PS at 6,300 rpm and 188 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,100 rpm from its air-cooled flat-six developed by Hans Mezger and Valentin Schäffer.

A more potent engine was only part of the success story. Much like the new 911 GT3 RS, wind tunnel testing and aerodynamic science introduced never-before-seen technology to the 911. The ducktail, now as much an icon of style as an element of function, was critical in achieving stability at high speeds. Not only did it unlock the ability to drive faster, but it did so without incurring additional drag. In fact, it reduced the drag coefficient.

August 20, 2022
Porsche 911 GT3 RS

The 2023 Porsche 911 GT3 RS is clear in its intentions: it is uncompromisingly designed for maximum performance. The 518 hp road-legal high-performance sports car takes full advantage of technology and concepts from motorsport. Even beyond the high-revving naturally aspirated engine with racing DNA and intelligent lightweight construction, it is, above all, the cooling and aerodynamic systems of the 911 GT3 RS that connect it most directly with its motorsport brother, the 911 GT3 R.

Central-radiator inspired by motorsport – the foundation for active aerodynamics

The basis for a significant performance boost is the concept of a central radiator – an idea that was first used in the Le Mans class-winning 911 RSR and subsequently in the 911 GT3 R. Instead of the three-radiator layout seen in previous cars, the new 911 GT3 RS relies on a large, angled center radiator in the car’s nose, positioned where the luggage compartment is located on other 911 models. This has made it possible to use the space freed up on the sides to integrate active aerodynamic elements. Continuously adjustable wing elements in the front and on the two-part rear wing, in combination with a number of other aerodynamic measures, provide more than 900 lbs. of downforce at approximately 124 mph, twice that of the 991.2-generation predecessor and three times as much as a current 911 GT3. At 177 mph, total downforce is 1,895 lbs, or the equivalent of a Porsche 356 A.

A drag reduction system (DRS) is fitted in a production Porsche for the first time. To achieve low drag and higher speeds on straight sections of the track, the DRS allows the wings to be flattened out at the push of a button, within a specific operating range. During hard braking at high speeds, the airbrake function positions the wing elements at the front and rear to support deceleration by maximize aerodynamic drag.

The purposeful look of the new 911 GT3 RS is characterized by the large number of functional aerodynamic elements. The most prominent feature of the GT sports car is the swan-neck-supported rear wing, which is significantly larger in all dimensions than the wing of its predecessor. The rear wing consists of a fixed main wing and a hydraulically adjustable upper blade. For the first time on a Porsche production vehicle, the upper edge of the rear wing is higher than the roof. A front splitter divides the air flowing over and underneath working in parallel with side blades on the front fascia that deflect air outwards. Front wheel-arch ventilation is provided via distinctive louvered openings in the front quarter panels. Inlets behind the front wheels inspired by the iconic Le Mans-winning 911 GT1 reduce the dynamic pressure in the wheel arches. Air from the centrally positioned radiator flows out of large nostrils on the front lid – further back, fins on the roof direct the air outwards, ensuring cooler intake temperatures in the rear. In the new 911 GT3 RS, the openings in the rear side panel are used exclusively to improve aerodynamics and not to draw in combustion air. The rear wheel arch also features an intake and a side blade for optimized airflow. The rear diffuser is a modified version of that fitted to the 911 GT3.

Track suspension that can be adjusted from inside the car

Even the suspension is modified for improved aerodynamics. Because the wheel arches of the new 911 GT3 RS are subject to powerful airflows, the components of the double-wishbone front axle are designed with teardrop-shaped profiles. These aerodynamically efficient links increase downforce on the front axle by around 88 lbs. at top track speed and are otherwise only used in high-end motorsport applications. Front track width increases by 1.14 inches (29 millimeters), necessitating longer double-wishbone front axle links.

To ensure that the downforce balance between the front and rear axles is maintained even when braking from high speeds, the suspension engineers have significantly reduced pitching under braking. On the new 911 GT3 RS, the front ball joint of the lower trailing arm has been set lower on the front axle. The multi-link rear axle has also been adjusted, with modified spring rates. The driver assistance systems and rear-axle steering also have an even more dynamic set-up here.

The 911 GT3 RS offers three driving modes: Normal, Sport and Track. In Track mode, the basic settings can be individually adjusted. Among other settings, the rebound and compression damping of the front and rear axles can be adjusted separately and in several stages. The rear differential can also be adjusted via rotary controls on the steering wheel. This is done quickly and intuitively with an operating and display concept also borrowed from endurance racing. Four individual rotary controls and a button for the Drag Reduction System (DRS) are located on the steering wheel. These rotary controls appear in the instrument cluster during the adjustment process. The 911 GT3 RS also features the track screen already familiar from the 911 GT3. At the touch of a button, the driver can reduce the two seven-inch side displays to essential information only. The gearshift indicator lights to the left and right of the analog tachometer have also been taken from the 911 GT3.

High-revving four liter six-cylinder boxer engine

The 4.0-liter high-revving naturally aspirated engine has been further optimized compared with the 911 GT3. The increase in power to 518 hp (911 GT3 – 502 hp) is achieved primarily via new camshafts with modified cam profiles. The single-throttle intake system and the rigid valvetrain are derived from motorsport. Like the 911 GT3, this engine also has six individual throttle bodies; one per cylinder. The seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) has a shorter overall gear ratio than the 911 GT3 and is aided by air intakes on the underbody to ensure that the transmission can withstand even extreme loads during frequent use on track.

The 911 GT3 RS accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds (911 GT3 – 3.2 seconds) and reaches a top speed of 184 mph in seventh gear. Six-piston aluminum monobloc fixed-caliper brakes and brake discs with a diameter of 408 mm are used on the front axle. Compared with the 911 GT3, the piston diameters have been increased from 30 to 32 mm. In addition, the thickness of the discs has been increased from 34 to 36 mm. The rear axle continues to be fitted with 380-mm brake discs and four-piston fixed-caliper brakes. The optionally available Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) use 410-mm discs on the front axle and 390-mm discs on the rear axle. The new 911 GT3 RS also comes standard with forged light-alloy center-locking wheels. Street-legal Ultra High Performance tires measuring 275/35 R 20 at the front and 335/30 R21 at the rear provide a high level of mechanical grip.

Lightweight construction all the way

Intelligent lightweight construction has been a basic principle of all RS models ever since the legendary 911 Carrera RS 2.7. Thanks to an array of lightweight construction measures such as the extensive use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), the 911 GT3 RS weighs in at only 3,268 lbs.. The doors, front quarter panels, roof and hood, for example, are made from CFRP. Lightweight CFRP is also used in the interior, including the standard full bucket seats, trimmed in black leather and Race-Tex joining carbon fiber trim throughout the interior to characterize the pure, sporty ambience.

Available with Weissach package

The Weissach package, which is available at extra cost, includes a considerable number of changes to the standard vehicle. The hood, roof, parts of the rear wing and the upper portion of the side mirrors housing feature visible carbon fiber. The front and rear anti-roll bars, the rear coupling rods and the shear panel on the rear axle are made of CFRP and contribute to a further enhancement of the driving dynamics. Another highlight of the Weissach package is the PDK shift paddles with motorsport-derived magnet technology. This makes gear changes feel especially precise thanks to a pressure point and a clearly perceptible click. Forged magnesium wheels are included in the Weissach package and save 17.6 lbs of unspring weight compared to the standard wheels.

The 2023 911 GT3 RS is expected to arrive at U.S. dealers by Spring, 2023. The starting MSRP is $223,800 excluding $1,450 for processing, delivery and handling.

Exclusive Porsche Design Chronograph

Inspired by the motorsport mindset – where maximum precision is paramount – Porsche’s own watchmaking operation in Solothurn, Switzerland, has developed the 911 GT3 RS chronograph. This mechanical watch is available as an option, and is reserved for owners of the car. It is based on a glass-bead blasted case, made from either natural or black titanium, and with a screw-down crown. Inside the watch is the mechanical Porsche Design chronograph caliber WERK 01.200, which has been COSC-certified for its high accuracy. Its flyback function allows the wearer to start, stop and reset the second hand with a single action. The chronograph pushers, which feature ”Start/Stop” and ”Next Lap” laser engravings, reveal that this chronograph is not just about telling the time. In addition to innovations, such as the pulsometer scale on the bezel, many design features and materials from the GT3 RS are also found.

August 18, 2022
Ferrari 296 GT3

The Ferrari 296 GT3 represents the future of the Prancing Horse in GT racing, a sector that has always seen the closest relationship with customers and the greatest transfer of technology and innovative solutions to production cars. The 296 GT3 grew out of the 296 GTB, the latest evolution of the Maranello company’s two-seater mid-rear-engined sports berlinetta concept.

The Ferrari 296 GT3 is an innovative project, on and off the track, that the Prancing Horse manufacturer decided to develop to continue a winning tradition dating back to 1949 when the 166 MM triumphed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This is a new approach in terms of design, car management at all stages of a race weekend, electronics, and even the engine architecture, a 120° turbocharged 6-cylinder. A new concept built to meet the needs of teams, professional drivers and gentlemen drivers, on whom Ferrari has always focused. This car has been meticulously designed in every detail and from every angle, in compliance with the new GT3 regulations.

July 30, 2022
Porsche 911 GT3 R

The new Porsche 911 GT3 R will be unveiled to the public at this year’s 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps. From the 2023 season, Porsche customer teams can campaign the new racing vehicle in worldwide motorsport events that adhere to the GT3 regulations. The vehicle is based on the latest 992-generation 911. Compared to its predecessor, the new 911 GT3 R features a larger engine producing up to 416 kW (565 PS), a more constant aerodynamic performance and an optimised vehicle balance.

With the latest generation of the 911 GT3 R, Porsche unveils a new customer racing car. The new challenger for GT3 series around the world is based on the current 992 generation and will be ready to race at the beginning of the 2023 season. Development began in 2019. Priority was given to further improving the driveability for professionals and so-called gentleman drivers, as well as tapping larger performance reserves for different Balance of Performance (BoP) classifications. Another focus was on streamlining the handling of the race car for the teams and reducing the running costs.

July 30, 2022
Lamborghini Squadra Corse presents the new Huracan GT3 EVO2, the racing version of Huracan STO

Lamborghini presents the new Huracán GT3 EVO2, designed and developed by Squadra Corse of Sant’Agata Bolognese based on the Huracán STO, with which it shares important design elements, rear-wheel drive only, and a naturally aspirated V10 engine, which in the road version delivers 640 horsepower.

Compared to the Huracán GT3 EVO, which was homologated in 2019 and based on the Huracán EVO road car, the GT3 EVO2 fully complies with the new FIA 2022 technical regulations and features all-new aerodynamic solutions and intake system. The unmistakable hexagonal airscoop design and the rear fin are derived from Huracán STO, contributing to a more efficient intake system and better car balance. The airscoop is connected to a snorkel, replacing the side air intakes, which optimally channels the airflow directly into the engine, resulting in greater responsiveness to the driver’s demands. The introduction of 10 electronically actuated throttle bodies increases the efficiency of the V10 with titanium valves; the entire system, designed by Lamborghini Squadra Corse, is fixed to the engine by just four screws, a solution introduced for the first time on the Essenza SCV12, to facilitate maintenance work.

The fully carbon fiber bodywork features a muscular design created in collaboration with Lamborghini’s Centro Stile. The new splitters, diffuser and underbody enhance aerodynamic efficiency. The carbon fiber floor, coated with high-strength Zylon fiber, together with the new diffuser, provides greater downforce than the current generation GT3 EVO. Other innovations include the rear wing, which is mounted on aluminum alloy pillars (Ergal 7075 T6) inspired by those of the STO. The new supports allow for greater precision in adjusting the wing compared to those of the EVO model.

The redesigned roll cage, with the introduction of two rear pillars, and the new carbon-Kevlar honeycomb side panels, already tested on the Essenza SCV12, increases safety in the event of impact on the doors in compliance with the FIA 2022 regulations. The plexiglas side windows are now fixed to the carbon fiber door panel by means of a ring of screws for greater structural rigidity and reliability.

The braking system has also been updated with new calipers and pads designed by Squadra Corse to optimize performance in both endurance and sprint races. These solutions, combined with dedicated traction control (TCS) and anti-lock braking systems (ABS), have been developed to make the car easy to control in low-grip conditions, even by gentlemen drivers. The car is delivered to customers equipped with PZero tyres (325.680-18 at the front; 325/705-18 at the rear) from long-time Squadra Corse partner Pirelli.

Giorgio Sanna, Lamborghini Head of Motorsport, commented: “The new Huracán GT3 EVO2 is not simply an evolution of the current car. It’s a new project that reinforces the technological transfer between Lamborghini’s motorsport division and the company and inherits two difficult tasks: to prove as successful as the previous generations of Huracán GT3, which have won more than 40 international titles in six seasons, and to match its commercial success by helping to reach the target of 500 Huracán racing cars since 2015.”

The car will be delivered to customers from the second half of 2022, and previous Huracán GT3 EVO model can be upgraded to the GT3 EVO2 specifications via an evolution kit. Its track debut is slated for the 2023 Daytona 24 Hours.

May 3, 2022
Naran Automotive reveals the Naran – A 1,048HP, four-seater, GT3-inspired hyper-coupé

Naran Automotive, the new manufacturer of luxury ultra-high performance cars, has revealed the exterior design of its first model – The Naran.

The four-seater hyper-coupé will deliver an authentic GT3-style driving experience for the road when it arrives next year, combining the uncompromising performance and dynamics of a track-focused hypercar, with opulent ultra-luxurious materials inside and out.

Just 49 examples of the first-of-its-kind, four-seater, all-wheel-drive, front-mid engined hyper-coupé will be created. Each vehicle produced will be individually tailored to the personal taste of the collector, including the designation of a bespoke model name – a convention normally reserved for luxury superyachts.

Naran Automotive has brought together a team of world-class partners from the pinnacle of automotive design, motorsport, material innovation and powertrain development to create The Naran.

Jowyn Wong, founder of Wyn Design and visionary behind the Apollo IE and De Tomaso P72, is leading the design, while colour and materials design is being tailored by Kate Montgomery, former Aston Martin Lagonda designer.

The bespoke 5.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine is being crafted in Germany with partners Racing Dynamics and development of vehicle dynamics is being overseen by EY3 Engineering and Daniel Mense, renowned for his work on the NIO EP9 – the electric car Nürburgring lap record breaker.

Performance
The Naran will be capable of 0-60mph in less than 2.3 seconds, 0-100mph in 4.56 seconds and an expected top speed of over 230mph, with the 5.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine producing 1,048 bhp and 1,036Nm of torque. The motorsport-inspired aerodynamic package helps produce an industry-leading 1,377kg of downforce, exceeding that of a GT3 race car.

Power is delivered by an all-wheel-drive system, providing both secure traction and confidence-inspiring performance in all conditions, with the option to switch to rear-wheel drive for a challenging, yet rewarding, analogue driving experience. The bespoke, race-derived double-wishbone suspension will apply adjustable front and rear anti-roll bars and camber and toe adjustments so customers can tailor the dynamic set-up to meet track specific demands.

Damping is provided by an Ohlins four-way adjustable race-spec system, enabling the driver to push their vehicle to the absolute limit even in the most demanding track conditions. The Naran will also adopt a race-grade hydraulic steering rack, carbon ceramic brakes developed for endurance racing, and spherical bearings for improved steering feel and precision.

Design
Designed by the founder of Wyn Design, Jowyn Wong, the man behind the Apollo IE and De Tomaso P72, The Naran encompasses a monolithic design language with sharp, purposeful lines, delivering an unmistakable coupé silhouette.

The long, leaping bonnet, performance-focused rear wing and aggressive front intakes give it an unrivalled presence on the road and track. The front splitter and rear diffuser appear as one-piece, with the exposed functional aerodynamic elements balancing the beautiful form of The Naran’s ultra-lightweight carbon composite body. The performance-focused theme is continued with the addition of 22-inch hybrid-carbon wheels and a distinct side aero blade exposing the front wheel arch for cooling and aerodynamic efficiency.

The Naran features bespoke detailing and first-class attention to detail, showcasing industry-first flax carbon composites in expressive material inserts across the exterior, with the natural fibres giving each of the 49 examples a tailored finish. The biodegradable flax composite is ultra-lightweight and not only provides a unique aesthetic in visual form, with a range of finishes available, but also delivers improved vibration damping over carbon fibre.

Ameerh Naran, CEO and founder of Naran Automotive, said: “Our vision is to create the most beautiful and thrilling cars in existence, inspiring future generations to pursue their wildest dreams.”

“With The Naran, we are creating a unique ownership experience and a new perspective on shared driving experiences – a GT3-inspired, driver-focused, front-mid engined 2+2 hyper-coupé, that delivers unrivalled material innovation and a commitment to reviving the analogue driving experience. The Naran is the true embodiment of art on wheels, designed and developed by some of the greatest minds in the industry.”

The model will debut in early 2021. For more information about the brand visit naran-automotive.com.

INTRODUCING NARAN AUTOMOTIVE
Naran Automotive’s founding team is both deeply respected and highly experienced. Our senior engineering and design experts have been hand-selected from the very best the automotive industry has to offer.

Meet the team behind Naran Automotive:

Founder/CEO: Ameerh Naran
Ameerh Naran, 34, is CEO and founder of Naran Automotive. During Ameerh’s early years, he raced in several single-seater championships before turning his entrepreneurial ambitions towards establishing himself in the premium luxury sector. After building Vimana Private Jets into a globally recognised brokerage, he is now focused on delivering a truly unique, and record-breaking, portfolio of cars.

COO: Steve Pegg
Leading the vehicle programme is Steve Pegg, a highly experienced senior vehicle engineer who has previously worked on highly successful and challenging portfolios for both established OEMs and electric vehicle start-ups.

Design: Wyn Design
The design team is led by Wyn Design founder Jowyn Wong. Jowyn created the Apollo IE – a $2 million hypercar that was a halo product for the new brand. Equally memorable was the De Tomaso P72 – a $1 million supercar tasked with reviving a dormant brand by re-introducing a 1960s race car-inspired design language.

Powertrain: Racing Dynamics
Racing Dynamics, a manufacturer of performance parts and specialist vehicles with 40 years of experience and heritage in racing, is crafting the Naran’s bespoke engine. Racing Dynamics has supported premium brands including BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Rolls-Royce to deliver TÜV-accredited performance systems.

Engineering: EY3 Engineering
Leading vehicle dynamics specialist, EY3 Engineering, was founded in 2016 and has designed three manufacturer-backed international touring cars, all of which took a race win on their debut and championship honours in their inaugural seasons. The team is being led by Daniel Mense, renowned for his work on the NIO EP9 – the electric car Nürburgring lap record breaker.

Materiality: Kate Montgomery
Kate is responsible for The Naran’s unique interior. An experienced designer specialising in colour, material and finish, trend insight and forecasting, Kate has consulted on projects in automotive, aviation concept and rail. She has worked at Aston Martin Lagonda, where she assisted in shaping the interior design strategy for several years.

December 30, 2020
Complete Transformation: The Motopark GT3 RS Rallye Mod for the road

This name has been synonymous with countless successes in international motorsport series and a great deal of race track expertise. It is not for nothing that famous names like Valtteri Bottas or Max Verstappen learned to race here under team boss Timo Rumpfkeil from scratch and finally ended up in the top class of motorsports.

Of course, it’s just natural to transfer this concentrated expertise from the race track to the road:

After the first conversions of a Porsche 997 GT3 for Olaf DOBBERKAU and Ruben ZELTNER to a rally version, the former Swedish racing driver Kevin KLEVEROS approached the Motopark professionals with a very special request:

His Porsche 911 GT3 RS – a true feast for the eyes and a real rarity even in its original condition – should get a complete Rally Mod. And Rally should not only stand for a martial optic in WRC-style but also for a corresponding performance, which is in no way inferior to the optics!

And of course, the remaining comfort of the GT3 RS of the 991 series should also be retained in order to continue to be used to its full extent on the road.

The result is truly something to see – and above all heard!

Because a handmade stainless steel exhaust system with even further optimized throughput ensures that the not exactly quiet high-revving boxer gets the acoustic stage it deserves. By the way, a specially developed Air Scoop on the roof sucks in fresh air at all times – and this part looks pretty cool on top of everything else.

With regard to the suspension, the Motopark team was also able to draw on practically unlimited resources:

The Full-Spec-Rally-Dampers with special tuning, adjustable in compression high/low as well as rebound, are made by REIGER and feature both a rebound control valve and a corner control valve. A thermostat provides identical damping in cold and warm conditions. Naturally, springs and stabilizers have also been reworked and got into shape for tough off-road use.

A fat underbody protection and mud flaps not only protect the GT3 RS from stones and other loose objects, but also give it the look befitting its intended use.

Another damn cool gimmick: The Fly-Off handbrake with ABS Kill-Switch ensures bold drifts in gymkhana style on any surface at any time.

It is well known that it gets dark early in Sweden, especially in the winter months – but that doesn’t cause too many problems to the off-road high-flyer from Oschersleben: A huge Nightface (carbon bracket) with extremely bright Xenon auxiliary lights turns night into day.

On the deceleration side, Porsche already provided a very good basis, which is why hardly any modifications were necessary: The brake pads with rally specification have a higher coefficient of friction and thus ensure better cold grip.

Since this rare gem is not suppose to flattened its tires – or in other words just sitting around in a car collection later but will also experience species-appropriate movement. Therefore the safety side was also upgraded: In the interior the Motopark team has installed a safety-cage extension which is optionally available from Porsche. A rally counter calculates distances, average times etc. via GPS and a reading lamp for the co-driver is included, too!

For the matching “war paint” of the GT3 RS, the Motopark crew – at the request of the customer – finally got Hajo LEMKE from 811 design on board.

The result was an overall concept that also delivers the performance promised by the martial appearance. And a vehicle that – despite its continued registration – will not be seen again on public roads in the near future.

December 7, 2020
Mercedes-AMG and the three GT3 race-ready beauties

For 2017 race season, Mercedes-AMG team will be racing in the most important and prestigious North-American race series for the first time. The chosen vehicle? GT3. The championships? IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, Riley Motorsports and other.

So far the Mercede-AMG racing team has decided that one of the competing vehicle will run as “AMG-Team Riley Motorsports” and the other as WeatherTech Racing with sponsorship from series’ main sponsor. Sweet, isn’t it? Also, with SunEnergy1 Racing, one more custom vehicle from Affalterbach is already confirmed.

It appears as Mercedes-AMG prepares confidently for the next milestone and passionately continues development of the Customer Sports Programme. And with the entering of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 in the IMSA championship the team shows its determination for achieving victory, or at least honorable performance. As you might know, so far the manufacturer was presented with the SLS AMG GT3 that did good, but apparently, there is still to be wanted.

SEE ALSO: Monstrous: Dime Racing Reveals Limited Edition Mercedes-AMG Machine

And this is why for this upcoming presence in IMSA, Mercedes-Benz works together with Riley Motorsports. This means that there will be a car that would be especially represented by the team’s patronage of the series’ sponsor. Also, there are plans that include a Mercedes-AMG GT3 machine to take place in the GTD class.

Definitely getting more and more serious, the sports team confidently heads towards a sweet 2017 race season.

Source: Mercedes-AMG

November 15, 2016
TECHART makes the Porsche GT3 RS way more attractive than before

The tuning studio offers comprehensive carbon pack and a lot of other styling features

Today we received some data about this unique Porsche GT3 RS, which has been equipped with TECHART’s carbon fiber pack as well as some other very cool goodies, about which we will talk about. The best thing about this is that the parts offered by the tuner can be custom made, according to the preference of the owner. So, this means that one can go for matt or glossy surface finishes, from simple leathers for the interior to Alcantara.

To go directly into details, the experts at TECHART have developed Carbon Sport Packages, which aim to emphasize the motor sport styling of the GT3 RS. The kit comprises of components like the air intakes, wing profiles, Porsche SportDesign mirrors, side skirts, roof spoiler, front and rear spoilers as well as rear diffuser, and etc.

SEE ALSO: TECHART Magnum is Back and it’s More Beautiful and Powerful than Ever!

While the interior pack can be customized with any of the materials available in the abundant TECHART leather shop. For instance, one can opt for tuner’s sport steering wheels, individual stitching, full leather and Alcantara interiors, sportive interior trims in carbon fiber or lacquered finishes, color-matched instrument dials and so much more.

There are so many options out there. Why stopping at the production version of the vehicle, being it even the Porsche GT3 RS?

Source: TECHART

September 2, 2016

Tag: GT3

The tuning studio offers comprehensive carbon pack and a lot of other styling features