The new Ferrari 488 Pista is powered by the most powerful V8 engine in the Maranello marque‟s history. And is the company‟s special series sports car with the highest level yet of technological transfer from racing. In fact the name, meaning „track‟ in Italian, was chosen specifically to testify to Ferrari‟s heritage in motor sports.
The Ferrari 488 Pista encompasses all of the experience built up on the world’s circuits. For example by the 488 Challenge and the 488 GTE. For over 25 years, Maranello has been organising the most prestigious of all one-make championships. The Ferrari Challenge, in which over 100 drivers split into three continental series do battle at the wheel. Last year saw the introduction of the 488 Challenge. It was the first model in the series to be equipped with a turbo engine.
The engine of the Ferrari 488 Pista adopts numerous solutions from that of the 488 Challenge
The Ferrari 488 GTE is instead the car fielded in the FIA World Endurance Championship, the pinnacle of GT racing. Where it has won two consecutive GT Manufacturers‟ titles and no less than five titles in total. Since the championship‟s inception in 2012. The 488 GTE has taken no fewer than 35 out of the 50 races run to date.
The new car’s engine adopts numerous solutions from that of the 488 Challenge. And its power output has been increased to 720 cv. It is also lighter. Thanks to new titanium con-rods and carbon-fibre intake plenums. The inverted radiator cooling system is also derived from the Challenge. With the radiators raked rearwards (rather forwards as in the 488 GTB). Improving cooling and maintaining optimal performance levels even in high thermal stress situations.
The Ferrari 488 Pista is an impressive 90 kg lighter than the 488 GTB
The car’s aerodynamics are derived from both the 488 GTE and from Formula 1. Specifically from the S-Duct at its front, the rear spoiler and diffuser profiles. Which boost efficiency by 20% compared to the 488 GTB. Other solutions have been carried over from the track. To shave off further weight. Including the lithium battery (from the 488 Challenge). And also the new carbon-fibre wheel rims – a first for Ferrari.
The overall result is that the 488 Pista is an impressive 90 kg lighter than the 488 GTB.
The new Ferrari 488 Pista is the perfect marriage of extreme performance and track car-style handling
As with the three previous special series, this new berlinetta is the perfect marriage of performance and track car-style handling. The special series were the Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia and 458 Speciale. Vehicle dynamics were designed for unique driving feedback. And to make the car’s full potential available to all drivers, professional or otherwise.
Specific vehicle controls were developed with this in mind. First and foremost being a new oversteer management system usable in the manettino‟s CT-OFF position. And designed to make the car’s performance on the limit easier to reach and control.
The Ferrari 488 Pista’s extreme design
A new gear-shift strategy in the RACE position delivers a far more sporty experience. Very similar to that of a track car. In other words, the Ferrari 488 Pista offers drivers of all abilities an exceptional and exhilarating experience. An experience that normally only a competition car could deliver. Setting a whole new benchmark in terms of driving pleasure for the Ferrari range.
The Ferrari 488 Pista’s extreme design is underlined by the optional livery that highlights the aerodynamic innovation of the S-Duct. The car’s lines were developed to underscore its sporty soul. And cleverly combine the purity of the 488 GTB. With some of the hugely successful racing and functional elements of the 488 GTE and 488 Challenge. While staying true to Ferrari‟s traditional styling.
The Ferrari 488 Pista can punch out 720 cv at 8000 rpm
The Ferrari 488 Pista can punch out 720 cv at 8000 rpm. Giving it the best specific power output in its class at 185 cv/l. While torque is higher at all engine speeds, peaking at 770 Nm (10 Nm more than the 488 GTB).
An extreme evolution of the turbo engine elected overall International Engine of the Year in both 2016 and 2017. This is the most powerful V8 in Ferrari history. The 50 cv power increase over the 488 GTB’s engine is unparalleld. Its the largest ever leap in engine power for a Ferrari special series car. And a remarkable 115 cv more than the previous model, the 458 Speciale.
In short, this V8 is the new benchmark not only for turbo-charged power units, but for all engines.
Ferrari 488 Pista fully exploits new features developed for the 488 Challenge
Development of this sportier version of the 488 GTB thus presented Ferrari‟s engineers with a big challenge. The challenge of improving on what was already acknowledged as the world‟s best engine. To do so, they had to test out a string of leading-edge solutions. Drawing on Ferrari‟s successful experience in the competition world.
The result is that the Ferrari 488 Pista’s engine has over 50% of new components. Compared to that of the 488 GTB of course. The Ferrari 488 Pista also fully exploits new features developed for the 488 Challenge. Not least the engine air intake layout with the intakes moved from the flanks to the rear spoiler area. Where they are connected directly to the plenums.
That power is maintained even in critical situations
This drastically reduces fluid-dynamic load losses. And ensures a higher volume and cleaner flow of air to the engine. Thereby contributing to the increase in power. Moving the air intakes to the rear also freed up space for a larger intercooler.
Thanks to a cooling layout derived from the 488 Challenge, the hot air flow is channelled to below the flanks. Well away from the side intakes for the intercooler. The radiators with an inverted rake are also featuring on the 488 Challenge.
10% of extra pressure in the combustion chambers
This guarantees that power is maintained even in critical situations. Such as in the wake of another car. Specific valves and springs combined with a new cam profile give this engine a more racing character. The pistons and cylinder heads have been strengthened. To cope with the higher loads. Up to an extra 10% of pressure in the combustion chambers.
Particular attention was also focused on reducing internal friction by introducing DLC-coated piston pins.
The Ferrari 488 Pista’s engine also benefits from all the lightweight components
From all the lightweight components featured on the Challenge version also the Ferrari 488 Pista’s engine benefits. Resulting in a weight reduction of 18 kg compared to the 488 GTB. The exhaust manifolds are now made from Inconel. While the crankshaft and flywheel are both lighter too. Titanium con-rods have also been introduced. And the reductions in the weight of the rotating masses cut inertia by 17%.
Drivers feel the impact of these reductions very clearly as the driver can see the revs increasing much more rapidly. The 488 Challenge also provides the turbos with integrated rev sensors. Response times are instantaneous and even faster than the 488 GTB. Thanks to a new control strategy developed specifically for this model. A new pedal map also makes driving on the limit even easier.
The Ferrari 488 Pista’s engine sound is unique and unmistakable
Lastly, the Ferrari 488 Pista’s engine sound is unique and unmistakable. As such a special version of the Ferrari V8 sports car warrants. The new Inconel exhaust manifolds and an optimised exhaust bypass logic contribute to the superior quality and the intensity. The level of sound is also higher than the 488 GTB. In all gears and at all engine speeds. Up to a maximum of 8 dB more, in proportion with the progressive increase in power.
The new gear shift strategy of the new Ferrari 488 Pista reduces shifting times by 30 ms
The sporty driving feedback is further enhanced by the high-performance gear shifting. Typical of a thoroughbred race car. The new gear shift strategy, available in the manettino‟s RACE position, reduces shifting times by 30 ms. With positive acceleration when the higher gear engages that the driver can feel distinctly.
This model also adopts the hugely successful Ferrari Variable Torque Management strategy for all gears. To adapt it to the car’s extreme sporty spirit, all of the curves were redesigned. Right to deliver a feeling of consistently smooth, powerful acceleration.
Ferrari 488 Pista is 90 kg lighter than the 488 GTB
To produce a car that offers blistering mechanical performance was the aim of the Ferrari 488 Pista’s dynamic development was . In terms of lap times and standing starts, driving pleasure. And accessibility of performance to drivers of all types.
To achieve these objectives, Ferrari‟s engineers had to work on several fronts. Starting with introducing numerous lightweight solutions. As well as evolving both a new generation of the Side Slip Control System (SSC 6.0). Improving the efficiency of the braking system and developing a new specific tyre, the Michelin Sport Cup 2.
The bodyshell of the new Ferrari 488 Pista was designed to keep the car as light as possible
The Ferrari 488 Pista is 90 kg lighter than the 488 GTB. Which brings huge advantages in terms of its agility and responsiveness. The weight reductions are concentrated in the most weight-sensitive areas of the car. Such as the unsprung masses and components away from the car’s centre of gravity. The bodyshell was designed to keep the car as light as possible. And features ultralight materials for the engine cover, the front and rear bumpers and the rear spoiler. And Lexan for the rear window.
For the first time a 20” (optional) single-piece carbon-fibre wheel rim has been used
This is also the first time that a 20” (optional) carbon-fibre wheel rim has been used in the Ferrari range. Entirely in carbon-fibre, it is around 40% lighter than the 488 GTB’s standard wheel rims. And features a special coating. Developed for the aerospace industry to the channel and spokes. Which efficiently dissipates heat generated under braking.
The evolution of the Ferrari 488 Pista’s dynamic vehicle control systems saw the introduction of a new actuation system. A system that flanks those featured on the 488 GTB. And is integrated into the new version 6.0 of the SSC concept. The 488 Pista also hails another first for a Ferrari road car. A lateral dynamics control system that uses Ferrari software to adjust the brake pressure at the callipers.
The Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE)
The Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE) is available when the manettino is in the “CT-OFF” position. It regulates the lateral dynamics variables, including side slip angle estimation. The control system intervenes in advance. Lightly actuating the callipers through, and exiting corners.
As a result the system manages the evolution of the side slip angle. Making control of the lateral dynamics in high performance situations more intuitive, controllable and predictable. So it is not a stability control system, but a maximum performance- focused system.
The 488 Challenge’s brake servo was adopted to enhance the sporty pedal feel
Extra confidence to the drivers gives the introduction of the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer into the integrated SSC 6.0 system. So that they can more easily handle even lengthy oversteer situations. It also makes performance on the limit easier to reach and control even for less expert drivers.
The Ferrari 488 Pista is extremely efficient in dealing with rapid changes of direction. And offers drivers a unique sense of predictability. The recalibrated SCM-E dampers and the 10% stiffer springs contribute to this improved handling precision.
Ferrari 488 Pista was developed for mostly road use but also to unleash impressive performance on the track
The Ferrari 488 Pista was developed for mostly road use but also to unleash impressive performance on the track. Therefor the braking system was modified to improve cooling. Particularly under extreme use, and also to cut the time it takes to get up to temperature.
To enhance the sporty pedal feel, the 488 Challenge‟s brake servo was adopted. And to further deliver smooth, consistent braking even in extreme conditions. These interventions have shortened the 200-0 km/h stopping distance by a metre compared to the 488 GTB. Combined with the lightweight solutions adopted of course.
The need for efficient downforce resulted in the whole of the front of the Ferrari 488 being completely redesigned
In-depth aerodynamics research played a big part in improving the Ferrari 488 Pista’s performance. Working on a concept focused on uncompromising innovation allowed considerable engineering freedom in developing significant solutions.
The already-exceptional aerodynamic efficiency of the 488 GTB has been improved by 20%. With major benefits in terms of absolute speed and lap times on medium-fast tracks. As well as sheer fun behind the wheel.
The knowledge Ferrari has built up on previous projects was essential to the development of the Ferrari 488 Pista
Essential to the Ferrari 488 Pista’s aerodynamics was the wealth of knowledge Ferrari has built up on previous projects. Projects, where the aerodynamics department was able to test new and efficient solutions. Integrating ideas developed for the 488 Challenge and the 488 GTE.
The 488 Pista’s V8 turbo punches out 50 cv more than the car on which it is based. Thanks in part to a reduction of almost 15° C in the temperature of the air entering the plenum. With respect to the 488 GTB.
The development of the thermo-fluid dynamics consequently focused on the powertrain cooling specifics. To minimise any impact on pure aerodynamic performance.
The main contributing factors to the improved intercooler efficiency in the new Ferrari 488 Pista
To guarantee the kind of performance demanded of the powertrain, the intercooler required an increase of over 25% in size. Compared to that of the 488 GTB.
In order to minimise the increase in weight and drag, the engineers worked on the car as a whole. To improve efficiency, limiting the increase required in surface area to just 7%.
The main contributing factors to the improved intercooler efficiency were the layout choices made at the front of the car.
As with 488 Challenge, the rake of the radiators has been inverted
The front radiator arrangement was completely redesigned. To minimise interference caused by the thermal boundary layer. Introduced by the hot air flow coming off the front radiators, with the air flow entering the intercooler intake.
As with 488 Challenge, the rake of the radiators has been inverted. And they are now inclined towards the rear. To direct the hot air to the underbody ahead of the front wheels.
The specific shape of the spoiler delivers powerful recompression
This choice produced an improvement of 10% in the performance of the rear intercoolers. An additional aerodynamic benefit: the virtual fairing of the exposed area of the tyre cuts the car’s drag by 7%. The engine air intakes have been moved from the flanks to the rear spoiler as per the 488 Challenge. This solution is adopted on the 488 GTB.
The specific shape of the spoiler delivers powerful recompression. Which guarantees the engine air intake benefits from high dynamic pressure. Shortening the length of the inlet duct, reducing consequent losses and boosting engine performance.
The low pressure area under the front underbody of the Ferrari 488 Pista
The need for efficient downforce resulted in the whole of the front of the car. Therefor front has completely been redesigned, particularly the bumpers and bonnet. One innovative Formula 1-derived solution in particular stands out. The S-Duct, which is being used for the very first time on a road car.
The air from the intake on the front bumper passes through an aerodynamic duct with calibrated sections. And exits through a vent on the bonnet, creating downward force over the front axle.
Many particular solutions account for 18% of the overall increase in downforce
Furthermore, the front intake is completed by a central lower wing profile that acts as a splitter. Thanks to its curvature, it accelerates the flow and increases the amount of air passing through the S-Duct.
Thus improving its performance while creating a low pressure area under the front underbody. Thanks to the acceleration of the flow generated on its lower surface, further boosting downforce.
This introduction of this particular solution accounts for 18% of the overall increase in downforce compared to the 488 GTB. But barely a 2% increase in drag.
The Ferrari 488 Pista’s underbody has been specifically redesigned
The exterior sections of the bumper ahead of the wheels were also extensively redesigned. With solutions modified from the 488 Challenge. And reinterpreted so successfully that they are responsible for 23% of the increase in downforce compared to the 488 GTB.
Radical scoops in the front bumper allow aerodynamic elements to protrude in areas where they can be most efficient.
The volume of the front bumper extends towards the wheelarch. To deflect the flow ahead of the wheels outwards. Generating suction from the wheelarch. And thus from the front underbody, which is equipped with diffusers. All to the benefit of front downforce.
At the rear, two elements contributed to the achievement of the downforce target. First the blown spoiler system and second the venting behind the rear wheels.
The spoiler on the Ferrari 488 Pista is higher and longer compared to the spoiler on the standard production car
Compared to the spoiler on the standard production car the spoiler is higher (+30 mm) and longer (+40 mm). Development work focused on the efficiency of the bleed under the spoiler. To adapt it to the change in the car’s overall downforce.
The calibrated sections have been optimised and the direction in which the air is blown has been modified. The angle is now upward, aided by the deflection of the flow by the upper surfaces of the spoiler. To generate even more rear downforce.
The evolution of the spoiler system and its bleed has had a significant impact on downforce. Accounting for 25% of the overall increase compared to the 488 GTB.
The 488 Pista’s underbody has been specifically redesigned
The increase in drag caused by the new blown spoiler is compensated for by the shape of the air flows. Now venting from the rear bumper below the tail lights.
Furthermore, the vents have been optimised. To exploit the pressure field generated by the spoiler. And to encourage evacuation from the rear wheelarches, increasing intercooler efficiency by 3%, on the one hand.
And incorporating the wake from the wheels on the other. Allowing the diffuser to be struck by a cleaner, more energised flow, boosting the rear downforce it generates.
The first big difference compared to the 488 GTB
As is always the case with each new Ferrari, the 488 Pista’s underbody has been specifically redesigned. To ensure it delivers as efficient a Cl figure as possible. The first big difference compared to the 488 GTB is how the hot air from the radiators is deflected. Deflected to the underbody ahead of the front wheels.
This choice, made to enhance the cooling layout and lower the car’s drag coefficient, shrinks the surfaces that generates downforce. To make up for this and further boost downforce, the designers decided to exploit other areas of the underbody.
12% of the overall downforce increase compared to the 488 GTB
The Ferrari 488 Pista was thus equipped with front diffusers. Made possible by the change in the inclination of the front radiators. And the elimination of the dams ahead of the wheels.
Thanks to a ramp already optimised for the 488 GTE, the diffusers accelerate the flow. Venting it into the wheelarches. Creating strong suction that in turn is responsible for 12% of the overall downforce increase compared to the 488 GTB.
The vortex generators on the underbody have also been optimised. And now generate 20% more downforce, thanks to modifications to their profile and length.
As in the 488 GTB, the diffuser is equipped with a system of 3 active flaps
The rear diffuser is also derived directly from Ferrari‟s World Endurance Championship experience. And has the same double kink line as the 488 GTE’s. Amplifying the extraction and downforce generation capacities of a traditional diffuser.
As in the 488 GTB, the diffuser is equipped with a system of 3 active flaps. They rotate 14° in minimum drag configuration to completely stall the diffuser and thus significantly reduce the car’s drag.
The Ferrari 488 Pista’s forms have been meticulously sculpted
Aerodynamic demands guided the work of the Ferrari Design Centre team. The 488 Pista’s forms have been meticulously sculpted. To ensure they are more performance-oriented than ever. With huge attention lavished ensuring that while aerodynamic demands were met, Ferrari’s signature styling elements and aesthetic canons were respected.
Designers used innovative elements. Such as the aerodynamic S-Duct at the front. As an opportunity to visually shorten the car’s nose, creating an original floating wing effect.
The black, omega-shaped edging on the front bumpers and the side flicks reference the underbody motif of the 488 GTE.
The Ferrari 488 Pista features a two-tone livery that runs the entire length of the car
Most notable on the flanks is the removed splitter in the side air intakes of the 488 GTB. At the front, the aerodynamic profiles that start at the front bumpers run sleekly along the side miniskirts. All the way to the side appendages of the rear diffuser.
The concept of the front is echoed in the dolphin-tail rear spoiler. Which appears suspended. To provide an impression lightness and efficiency, while the rear volumes add a sense of power to the tail. The rear diffuser juts out and has been developed in width. Its design was inspired by that of the 488 GTE.
The Ferrari 488 Pista features a two-tone livery that runs the entire length of the car. Starting at the front bumper, then diving into the S-Duct and continuing all the way to the rear spoiler.
Cockpit of the new Ferrari 488 Pista has a distinctive racing feel
Ferrari’s 488 Pista interior has a distinctive racing feel with all superfluous elements eliminated. The extensive use of lightweight, materials such as carbon-fibre and Alcantara works brilliantly. Especially with the meticulous crafting and sophistication that is the signature of all Ferrari cockpits.
Contrasting hand-stitching, tread plates and heel rests in triangular pattern aluminium and fluidly sculpted door panels are examples of this. The glove compartment has been replaced. By handy storage pockets on the rear bench and the doors. The compartment is normally incorporated into the dashboard directly in front of the passenger. The effect is to significantly visually slim down the volume of the under-dash area.