2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 "Flying Car" Logic Explained

One of them is the Performance Traction Management (PTM) system, one that integrates the chassis model selection, Traction Control and Active Handling System for optimal road-course performance and consistency.

"PTM uses torque, lateral acceleration and rear-axle wheel slip to define the amount of traction control required, but when the car clears a rise on the track, it normally wants to decrease torque to increase traction," said Bill Wise, Camaro Z/28 vehicle performance engineer.

"The unique logic in the system uses the ride-height sensors to determine the reduction in force on the tires that's unique to track driving and allows the car to continue with uninterrupted momentum and, ultimately, a better lap time,” he added.

Called “flying car” logic by GM engineers, the system is also “responsible” for the Camaro Z/28’s impressive 7:37.47-minute Nurburgring lap. The new pony was four seconds faster than the Camaro ZL1 and lapped the iconic German track quicker than the Porsche 911 Carrera S and the Lamborghini Murcielago LP640.

"The new Camaro Z/28 was bred on and for the track," Wise added. "From the hardware bolted to the chassis to the software such as the "flying car" logic, every element built into it was designed to help deliver faster lap times, with consistency, control and dependability."

Available in all PTM models, the “flying car” logic is most effective in Mode 5, which was specifically calibrated for the fastest lap times on GM’s Milford Proving Ground in Michigan and on Virginia International Raceway and Road Atlanta.

"The hill between Pahrumps 1 and 2 is ideal for testing the feature," Wise explained. "The car noticeably lifts as it clears the top of the rise. Without the logic built into PTM, the torque reduction would unnecessarily slow the car. With it, the car receives full torque over the rise, which helps reduce the lap time – and it is part of the reason why PTM Mode 5 can be as good, or better, than a driver's best effort, on certain track conditions."

Revealed last year, the 2014 Camaro Z/28 is a no-nonsense track-prepped musclecar that’s powered by a 7.0-liter LS7 engine that delivers 505 horsepower and 481 pound-feet of torque (652 Nm) via a six-speed manual transmission. The vehicle starts at $75,000, including the $995 destination and handling fee and the gas-guzzler tax, but excluding tax, title, license and dealer fees. The only option of the Z/28 costs $1,150 and adds air conditioning and six audio speakers.