McLaren MP4-12C GT3 completes first tests

The first McLaren MP4-12C GT3 has completed the first tests at the Silverstone Circuit in England. Built by McLaren GT - a new company that brings together the expertise of the McLaren Group and CRS Racing – the GT3 version of the MP4-12C had its first taste of track. On the occasion the new company also appointed a new test driver to its team, 26-year-old Portuguese racing driver Álvaro Parente.

In Silverstone, McLaren GT the new components and the bespoke aerodynamic body structures were calibrated and evaluated. This first shakedown with the 12C GT3 will be followed by an extensive testing schedule that will take place in March and April in several FIA certified circuits across Europe.

News about the development programmes as well as the full driver line-up and planned competition for the 12C GT3 should be revealed after the conclusion of testing.

McLaren GT Project Manager Andrew Kirkaldy and McLaren Automotive Chief Test Driver Chris Goodwin were the first two drivers to pilot the 12C GT3. These tests follow months months of virtual testing in the McLaren Simulator at the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking.

Andrew Kirkaldy said: “We have an extensive list of subjective and objective development targets set for the MP4-12C GT3.  In the first tests, the car is achieving excellent results in many areas including handling, powertrain and other aspects of dynamic performance.”

“The McLaren GT team is working with Formula 1 technology suppliers, and several of the senior technical personnel involved in this project have vast experience in Formula 1. This is a unique advantage in developing a GT specification car,” added Kirkaldy.

McLaren Automotive and CRS Racing will start supplying and supporting a limited number of FIA GT3-compliant racing cars based on the McLaren 12C high-performance sports car for privateers from 2012.

The first new professional racing driver to join the McLaren GT race team has already been presented. At the age of 26 Portuguese driver Álvaro Parente will be part of a six test driver team led by McLaren GT Project Manager Andrew Kirkaldy and McLaren Automotive Chief Test Driver Chris Goodwin.

Álvaro Parente said: “It is a great honour to be selected to drive with the McLaren GT team. Since receiving an invitation to join the team by Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Team Principal Martin Whitmarsh, I have been made to feel like an important part of the team and I hope to give valuable feedback in developing the car.  I have always dreamt of racing a McLaren!”