McLaren revealed today the racing version of the MP4-12C, called the GT3. The McLaren MP4-12C GT3 was announced back in December, but today we get the first chance to see it live, as the company also released a video showing the new racer in action. Currently, the McLaren MP4-12C GT3 is undergoing trials on the MIRA and Silverstone race tracks in UK. The GT3 is being tested by championship-winning racing driver Alvaro Parente who has just joined McLaren's team.
The GT3 version of the McLaren MP4-12C is developed in collaboration with CRS Racing. It's built on the same, 75 kg, carbon MonoCell chassis as the factory, street version, of the McLaren MP4-12C, but it comes with race specification composite body panels and a fixed rear wing.
McLaren's GT3 MP4-12C is powered by the same 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 engine, but the regular transmission has been replaced with a bespoke paddle-shift system and an all-new Ricardo-designed gearbox. The McLaren MP4-12C GT3 comes with new electronics, a Bosch Motorsport ABS, and Akebono brake calipers. The aero package of the GT3 includes a new front splitter, door blade, rear wing, diffuser and louvers in the front fenders.
The racing GT3 version of the car is not allowed to use the proactive Chassis Control System
equipping the standard MP4-12C, but it did get race-specific roll bars and dampers.
You can watch the McLaren MP4-12C GT3 live in the video after the jump. A few statements from company officials are also available.
Andrew Kirkaldy said: "We have an extensive list of subjective and objective development targets set for the MP4-12C GT3. In the first tests, the car is achieving excellent results in many areas including handling, powertrain and other aspects of dynamic performance.
"The 12C's carbon chassis and aerodynamic efficiency mean we started with a lightweight, dynamically-optimized sports car. Those characteristics are fundamental to any race car. The car is around 100mm wider than the standard production car and features a new suspension system which we have tested in the McLaren Simulator. Having now experienced this new set-up in the 12C GT3 car, I’m delighted with the progress we are making.
"The McLaren GT team is working with Formula 1 technology suppliers, and several of the senior technical personnel involved in this project have vast experience in Formula 1. This is a unique advantage in developing a GT specification car."
McLaren MP4-12C GT3 video:
