Specifically, the initial McLaren MP4-12C GT3 tests took place at the MIRA proving ground facility and Silverstone Circuit in England, with McLaren GT Project Manager Andrew Kirkaldy and McLaren Automotive Chief Test Driver Chris Goodwin behind the wheel.
The 12C GT3 is based on the McLaren carbon MonoCell chassis, which weighs just 75kg and is produced in a revolutionary one-piece mould. Race specification composite body panels and a fixed rear wing have been added to the GT3 car.
Performance wise, the race car is fitted with the same 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 as in the production car, only tuned to race specification. A bespoke paddle-shift system operating an all-new Ricardo-designed gearbox developed specifically for racing will be fitted.
Bosch Motorsport will supply a new ABS system for the 12C GT3. A new aerodynamics package has been developed by McLaren Racing in compliance with GT3 regulations, incorporating a new front splitter, door blade, rear wing, diffuser and louvres in the front fenders.
Other motorsport-specific braking and suspension components include bespoke callipers by Akebono, Official Supplier to Vodafone McLaren Mercedes. Due to regulations imposed by racing authorities, the 12C GT3 will not feature the road-going 12C’s ProActive Chassis Control System, but a configuration comprising race-specific roll bars and dampers.
The 26-year-old Portuguese racing driver Alvaro Parente as the newly appointed driver of McLaren GT. Other tests are scheduled to run throughout March and April at a number of FIA certified circuits across Europe. As expected, full driver line-up and planned competition for the MP4-12C GT3 will be announced after those tests have completed.
The new video of MP4-12C GT3 in first tests is available below:
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