An afternoon Press Briefing and some subsequent conversations have thrown some interesting light on a number of aspects of the current GTE Pro manufacturer’s 2016 plans
Ferrari
Ferrari’s Technical Sporting Co-ordinator Marco Fainello took time out with DSC to confirm some details of the current programme to develop parallel versions of the new turbo engined 488 for both GTE and GT3.
“The biggest challenge has been to develop a full understanding of how to optimise the new package. Packaging, and in particular heat management has been a key.
“We have also had to work hard to optimise the way in which the improved torque developed by a turbo engine is delivered. That’s important not only for ultimate performance but in particular for many owners, particularly of the GT3 cars, for the human factors involved, how the car FEELS to drive. That’s a very important factor for those that choose the Ferrari.”
Fainello also confirmed that the new 488 will see a much closer relationship than before between the GT3 and GTE versions of the car:
“They share a chassis and other major components but whilst it is certainly possible to convert a GT3 car to a GTE or a GTE to a GT3 it is not as simple as some have suggested. It is still a major conversion rather than a simple kit of parts.”
He also confirmed that Ferrari, whilst supportive of closer links between the two GT classes, was fully supportive of the current GTE regulations.
Porsche
Whilst Porsche’s return with a factory team to the GTE Pro ranks of the 2016 FIA WEC has been an off-on story (with the emphasis on the ‘off) the latest twist in the tail adds a frisson of tension.
German sources are reporting and briefing that the Porsche Team Manthey personnel, from Olaf Manthey downwards, have been told, via email, that no comment is to be made on the team’s 2016 plans without the team’s PR representative being present.
That report has been confirmed to DSC by two team members.
No announcement is expected here but we believe that the factory team will NOT return to the GTE Pro ranks in 2016, taking a WEC sabbatical as they work on a new car for 2017. The 2016 evolution of the 911 RSR will though race in the IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship.
There is no news yet on whether Porsche will seek a Le Mans entry based on the IMSA campaign.
Aston Martin
John Gaw confirmed this evening that the Aston Martin Racing team will field a 2016 version of the Vantage GTE at Sundays post-race WEC test here in Bahrain.
Gaw described the new car as “around 25% different from the existing car with aerodynamics the major change” That new package includes the large new for 2016 rear diffuser and all new body panels.
He also confirmed that it was Aston Martin Racing’s view that tyre development had been the principal factor that had seen the Astons drop back from their early season form agains the GTE Pro competition.
