Ferrari 488 Challenge replaces Ferrari 458 Challenge EVO

Source: https://twitter.com/FerrariRaces/status/804846713454415872

Old cars will eventually be replaced by new cars. The same rule applies to race car. Meet the new Ferrari 488 Challenge, the successor to the outgoing 458 Challenge EVO in conjunction with the 25th anniversary since the inception of Ferrari's Challenge series in 1992. The new race car was presented during the Finali Mondiali which took place in Daytona, USA.

Unlike the 458 Challenge EVO, the 488 Challenge will introduce turbocharging for the first time in the brand's one-make race series. The engine is directly derived from the production car's 661 hp 3.9 litre twin turbo V8, which won the 2016 International Engine of the Year Award. Ferrari further enhanced the 488 Challenge's aero and chassis which, together with the engine's unique race-optimised engine mapping, smashed the 458 Challenge EVO's Fiorano lap record by a second, now standing at 1:15.5.

The gear ratio for the proprietary F1 dual clutch transmission has been shortened, which will see improvement in acceleration. Shorter gearing aside, the transmission also employs "racing shift strategy" which (whatever it means) enables a blistering 6 seconds acceleration from dead stop all the way to maximum rpm in 4th gear.  

The marque's Side Slip Angle Control system is making its debut in the Challenge series. The system works in conjunction with the traction control, electronic differential and adaptive damper to improve lateral acceleration. This should theoretically endow the 488 Challenge with competitive edge around bends.

Aerodynamic has also been given a good tweak. To improve air flow over the radiators and reduce drag during racing conditions, Ferrari revised the front radiator layout, inverting the rake so it's inclined towards the rear. The front bumper features more aggressive splitter and flicks for more downforce and equalise load between the front and rear. Hot air flow from the radiator is directed rearwards thanks to the triple vents and integrated flaps on the front bonnet. A large rear wing has been added to double the downforce generated.

Out goes the old car, in goes the new car with new goodies. Hope this will spice up the next season of the Ferrari's Challenge Series!

Information Source: http://races.ferrari.com/en/finalimondiali2016/news/ferrari-unveils-488-challenge-world-finals-daytona/