Ferrari Unveils New 488 GT3 Evo for 2020 Races

Scarperia, 26 October 2019 – A new version of the Ferrari 488 GT3 which will compete in the main international GT championships in 2020 was unveiled at the Ferrari Finali Mondiali in Mugello, Italy. The new 488 GT3 Evo is a new package resulting from Ferrari’s desire to further refine certain aspects of one of the most successful cars in the marque’s history. The updates were achieved using innovative concepts derived from its track experience and feedback from the teams competing with the 488 GT3.

The development of the 2020 car focused on aerodynamics, vehicle dynamics, ergonomics, safety and reliability, and compliance with the strict power and aerodynamic efficiency performance limits imposed by FIA regulations.

Ferrari engineers managed to hone the 488 GT3 Evo 2020’s aerodynamics to boost the car’s stability with a new front-end design making significant contribution. Over 18,000 hours of calculations and CFD (computational fluid dynamics) simulations, followed by wind tunnel testing, went into the design of a new bumper with a smaller frontal section under the headlights. This allows for the introduction of a pair of flicks to generate more downforce, giving the car more stability without modifying the aero balance thanks partly to turning vanes inside the splitter.

Aerodynamics 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 vehicle dynamics of the 488 GT3’s have been key in the car’s success in racing, and this area has been further improved in the new 488 GT3 Evo 2020. The wheelbase has been lengthened to optimise tyre use and reduce tyre wear. Engineers also focused on weight reduction with the aim of using more ballast 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 which is a twin-turbo V8 with a 90-degree angle between the cylinder banks, nor have any components been modified. However, there is 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 new 488 GT Challege Evo (GTE), it is not only more rigid and robust but is also 2.4kg lighter with new belts and a new buckle.

The additional 24H/Endurance package is specifically designed for clients interested in this particular type of racing. The basic equipment includes a front bumper with additional headlights, quick-fill couplings for engine oil and coolant, carbonfibre 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.

The new components and improvements introduced in the Ferrari 488 GT3 Evo 2020 are also available as upgrade kits for existing cars.