Ferrari has revealed a new limited-production track-only race car, derived from the 499P racer that won the 24 Hours of Le Mans earlier this year.
The Ferrari 499P Modificata is claimed to be a “substantially modified version” of the 499P that’s reserved for “non-competitive use” and aimed at “gentleman drivers”.
Unlike the 499P that won Le Mans, the 499P Modificata doesn’t have to comply with FIA WEC parameters which means there have been a number of “significant modifications” that “enhance driving thrills”.
The 499P Modificata is powered by a mid-rear-mounted 3.0-litre V6 engine with a front axle-mounted electric motor producing an unrestricted total system output of 640kW of power.
For context, the 499P has a system output of 500kW due to FIA WEC Le Mans Hypercar (LMH) class output regulations.
There’s also a battery pack with an 800-volt electrical architecture that’s fed during deceleration and braking.
This hybrid powertrain is mated to a seven-speed sequential transmission, with drive sent to all four wheels.
Compared to the 499P, the 499P Modificata’s front axle-mounted electric motor is able to work at low speeds which means there’s always all-wheel drive. In the former the electric motor could only be activated at speeds above 190km/h.
In the 499P Modificata there’s also a ‘Push to Pass’ system that’s conceptually system to the Formula One-derived Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS). It’s able to dish out an additional 120kW for seven seconds using a button on the steering wheel.
Under the skin, the 499P Modificata sports an all-carbon-fibre monocoque chassis with pushrod suspension and a “sophisticated” braking system incorporating brake-by-wire.
The centrally mounted shock absorbers and springs, as well as the anti-roll bars have been specially designed for the 499P Modificata.
The track-only racer uses specific Pirelli tyres (310/70R18 front and 340/70R18 rear) that were developed for “predictable handling” and to also “maximise feedback in non-competitive driving”.
This means the tyres warm up quick and have consistent grip levels for “multiple laps”.
On the styling front, the 499P Modificata looks virtually identical to the 499P. It has a number of dramatic aerodynamic elements, as well as functional air intakes and vents.
Ferrari 499P Modificata owners will be eligible for the Sport Prototipi Clienti programme, which allows them to participate in a number of events on international tracks every year.
The Prancing Horse takes care of all logistics, track-side assistance and maintenance on the vehicle for these events.
