Maserati is back. The mighty Trident returned to the track for the debut of the marque’s new high-performance GT2 car this week, being prepared to compete in the 2023 Fanatec GT2 European Series.
The shakedown at The Autodromo Varano de’ Melegari in Parma was the model’s first track test and precursor to a series of tests and events ahead of the planned official unveiling of the car at the CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa at the end of June.
Maserati leads its welcome return to GT racing with a hungry new car designed to evoke the exploits of its forerunner, the glorious and victorious MC12.
The Trident’s history in motorsport is a story of successes spanning almost a century. A new chapter begun in late 2022 with the announcement of its participation in the 2023 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, complemented by its inclusion in the Fanatec GT2 European Series, as part of the strategy developed to bring the Trident back on track.
Maserati GT2 is speed, elegance, style and innovation incarnate. A car designed to be a masterpiece of performance: extraordinary and breath-taking between the kerbs, created to celebrate Maserati’s return to the circuits.
Conceived and designed by Maserati engineering in tandem with the Centro Stile Maserati, the Maserati GT2 inherits the extraordinary 463kW/630CV Nettuno V6 engine from the Maserati MC20, taking it to a higher level.
Technical specifications include the all-new patented MTC (Maserati Twin Combustion) technology based on F1 engines, the ultra-light carbon fibre central monocoque – an excellent solution to have a good weight-power ratio – and the lightweight full composite bodywork, where the aerodynamic features are exploited to the limit to improve the vertical load but at the same time ensuring the best efficiency in terms of drag.
Much attention has been given to the development of the correct balance of the aerodynamic load, whereas the bottom has been developed to work best in synergy with the front splitter and rear wing (adjustable); it has quick-release removable bodywork for optimised component replacement; the chassis features high torsional and bending stiffness.
All suspension components of the car are specific racing components, including adjustable shock absorbers and anti-roll bars in both the front and rear. Likewise, the electronics. The six-speed sequential racing gearbox and steering wheel paddle shift with electrical rotary gearshift actuator evoke adrenaline-fuelled emotions.
The carbon fibre dashboard and the 10” display integrated into the dashboard result in a futuristic, intuitive cabin, complemented in the bodywork by the Maserati Corse-specific painting and livery option (Blu Infinito).
A gem of mechanics and engineering, the spearhead of innovative technical solutions, with futuristic, minimalist and sculptural interiors referring to the extreme lines of the body, the Maserati GT2 is dedicated to the racing teams and drivers due to take part in the Fanatec GT2 European Series.
The Trident single-seater with covered wheels is the result of a winning synergy between Maserati men and women and the avant-garde design and style that has always distinguished the creations of the Italian brand, complemented by its unmistakable flair of luxury, even when the road becomes a track. The fierce GT2 is therefore getting ready to explore new horizons, to consolidate and define Maserati’s racing future in the world of motorsport.
Andrea Bertolini, Maserati test driver, commented: “The first few days are always quite unique, even more so for me when I was fortunate enough to bring Maserati to success at the GT1 World Championships, where I won four titles. We are now about to get back on track with yet another wonderful car.
“We’ve done lots of trial runs and early feedback is positive. Getting back behind the wheel of a GT was really exciting, and I could see everyone involved was very enthusiastic and motivated. We've focused on developing a product that not only stands up to its competitors but is also an ideal car for our gentleman drivers in terms of handling, comfort and performance. We want them to experience a unique feeling in this car. In the last few months, we’ve been working intensively in the simulator, courtesy of the commitment of a fantastic team.
“I'd like to thank them, and the most positive aspect is that to follow these first few days, we’re making it all a reality is to the very greatest extent. We have an intense series of test days ahead of us, to get us ready to get back on track.”
This year's Fanatec GT2 European Series starts in Monza, Italy on 22-23 April, with the Maserati GT2 set to join the grid later in the season.
