Ferrari Unveils 499P Modificata Race Car

Ferrari unveiled the 499P Modificata, a modified version of the race car that won at Le Mans earlier this year, the 499P. The 499P Modificata was unveiled at the Finali Mondiali, the last race of the season of its customer racing programme. 

Although the 499P Modificata is still an out-and-out race car but has been modified to make its performance more accessible since its performance is not bound by FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) regulations. This means that the 499P has a maximum power output of 858 bhp (combined). The combined power output includes 697 bhp from the 3.0-litre V6 engine and another 160 bhp from the ‘Push to Pass’ system. 

Speaking of which, the ‘Push to Pass’ is similar to a Formula 1 car’s KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) and is available for up to seven seconds during a lap. It can be activated using a button on the back of the steering wheel and full power is only available when the accelerator pedal is depressed completely. This system does not exist in the 499P due to WEC regulations. 

Other modifications over the WEC-spec 499P include activation of the front axle at low speeds as it can only be activated over 190 kmph in the WEC race car. With this, the car becomes all-wheel driven and Ferrari says this makes the car feel more responsive due to better torque split between the axles. 

The 499P Modificata is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 engine paired to an electric motor on the front axle developing 268 bhp. Power is sent to the rear wheels primarily (all wheels once the front axle is active) via a 7-speed sequential gearbox. It has a carbon-fibre monocoque chassis and double wishbones, pushrod suspension on all four corners. 

The Modificata retains the cockpit of the WEC-spec 499P. It still has the single-seater layout and ergonomics of the 499P, which Ferrari says gives the same experience of driving in the WEC series. 

Ferrari also mentioned that the 499P Modificata will spearhead the brand’s new Sport Prototipi Clienti programme. This will allow owners of the 499P Modificata to rely on Ferrari’s assistance with maintenance, service and logistical support for all track events. This programme will run alongside the F1 Clienti programme in Ferrari's Corse Clienti department from 2024 onwards.