Fifer Kirkaldy tests new McLaren 15 | 03 | 2011

    SCOTS RACER Andrew Kirkaldy has given the McLaren Automotive MP4-12C GT3 racer its debut tests at MIRA and Silverstone. The St Andrews racer, now McLaren GT project manager, carried out the shakedown of the car which has been developed in conjunction with CRS Racing, the team Kirkaldy helped found.

    The Scot, accompanied by chief tester Chris Goodwin, carried out the test following extensive development of the car in the McLaren simulator in Woking. It's believed further track tests will continue at various European circuits throughout March and April.

    The ultra-sleek MP4-12C GT3 racer uses the same 75kg one-piece carbonfibre MonoCell chassis as the road car, while the 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 — the same engine as found in the 'road car' — has been “tuned to race specification”.

    In addition, the race car has been fitted with a Ricardo-designed gearbox with bespoke paddle shifters designed specifically for racing sends power to the rear wheels. There's also a new Bosch Motorsport ABS system features and there are also new electronics.

    The race car also benefits from a new aerodynamics package which includes a large fixed rear wing, louvers in the front bumper, a new front splitter and door blade.

    Not surprisingly, bespoke motorsport braking and suspension systems are included. But due to GT regulations, the road car’s ProActive Chassis Control System does not feature.

    The MP4-12C GT3 is expected to compete in a limited number of European GT races in 2011, with final production ready for customers in 2012.

    CLICK HERE to see our video of the MP4-12C GT3 racer in action at Silverstone

    CLICK HERE to see more photos of the MP4-12C GT3 racer at Silverstone

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    Jim McGill

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