The GP3 Series has unveiled the new car that will be used from the beginning of next season.
GP3 is the third tier of single-seater racing, appearing on the support package for nine Formula 1 grands prix alongside GP2 (the second tier).
The series has produced six drivers that have gone on to race in F1, including Esteban Gutierrez (2010 champion), Valtteri Bottas (2011 champion) and Daniil Kvyat (2013 champion).
As part of the series’ plan to introduce a new car every three seasons, the GP3/16 was unveiled on Thursday at Monza ahead of its debut at the beginning of the 2016 season.
“The GP3/16 features a brand new Mecachrome race engine which is a bespoke design for the series,” a statement from GP3 reads. “It is a V6 3.4 litre which is naturally aspirated with 400 HP.
“Moreover, the third generation car has new aerodynamics to facilitate overtaking and it also enjoys a newly designed monocoque to help accommodate taller drivers.
“A revised nose is one of the key visual changes to the new machine. The modifications will raise the expectations of the series and improve on an already highly competitive racing show.”
Series CEO Bruno Michel was pleased to lift the covers off the new car ahead of the 2016 season, believing that it will aid overtaking and create more exciting racing whilst keeping costs low.
“I am very pleased with this new generation car,” Michel said. “The first two generations have reached expectations in preparing young drivers for the next steps: GP2 and F1.
“There were three key areas we focused on during the design phase of our new car. Firstly, we have designed a car that will encourage overtaking thanks to new aerodynamics which will enhance the racing and provide even more entertainment.
“Moreover, we have worked on finding solutions to limit operational costs, again in order to provide an attractive package to our teams. Finally, the GP3/16 car matches the latest F1 safety standards which is something we’re always highly focused on.
“We’re convinced that the way we’ve positioned the GP3/16 is the right one for the next three seasons and will continue to attract drivers and teams whose ambition is to reach the pinnacle of motorsport.”
