The newest addition to the GM racing stable.
The Cadillac ATS-V compact high-performance model grabbed the asphalt with pride and power, boasting a large amount of performance in its relatively small package. General Motors have taken things a step further with the introduction of the 2016 Cadillac ATS-V.R race car that will be able to compete in FIA GT3 competition, globally. The motorsport variant has all the goodies from BBS wheels to a modified engine and optimized aerodynamics to eat up tracks and rip apart the competition.
”The V-Series is the highest expression of Cadillac’s rising product substance,” said Johan de Nysschen, Cadillac President. “Elevating and expanding the V-Series is the next logical step in Cadillac’s growth, including this new race car developed in GT3-specification, enabling us to pursue racing on a more global scale.”
Powering the rear BBS wheels for the Cadillac ATS-V.R is the racing version of the 3.6-liter, twin-turbocharged V-6 engine in the road-going ATS-V. Dubbed the LF4.R, the 600+ horsepower engine features bigger BorgWarner turbochargers, intercoolers with an increased cooling capacity, a racing-programmed ECU, and a direct side exhaust outlet. The engine is made from a lightweight aluminum block and heads that is counterbalanced by a bespoke rear transaxle. This helps achieve a premium 49-percent front, 51-percent rear weight distribution bias for better handling and overall performance.
“This car sounds wicked and screams like it’s ripping holes in the air. I love it,” said Andy Pilgrim, Cadillac Racing Driver. “We have paddle gear shifters for the first time, and I’m enjoying the new tools. The engine torque is remarkable, as always, pulling strongly out of the corners.”
In order to meet the FIA GT3 regulations, the car had to undergo quite a bit of modifications and upgrades from safety to performance. Both the front and rear fenders that house the massive BBS wheels were extended in order to accommodate the larger FIA-mandated tire sizes.
The new Cadillac ATS-V.R also wears a full aero kit that produces more downforce than the stock model ever could. A carbon fiber front splitter and corner-mounted flics help to keep the pressure on the front axle and BBS wheels. A full undertray redirects air towards the rear diffuser while a large spoiler wing generates massive amounts of downforce at the rear axle. New 18-inch racing tires are worn by 18.0 x 12.0 front and 18.0 x 13.0 rear aluminum BBS wheels to grab at the pavement.
The new ATS-V.R will join the Cadillac Racing team that has achieved 26 wins, 91 podium finishes, and 22 pole positions since it first began in 2014. The new ATS-V.R will be able to compete in 30 different GT series around the world starting in 2015.
Source: General Motors
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