Iron Lynx, the team behind the new prototype, recently had an impressive showing during its test session in the United States. The prototype not only topped the GTP timesheets but also completed a remarkable 1,150km over the course of two days. This successful test marks an important milestone for Iron Lynx as it prepares to compete in the IMSA SportsCar Championship Endurance Cup races.
First Running in the United States
The recent test session in the United States was the prototype’s first opportunity to hit the track in the country. Prior to this, the car underwent private tests in Europe at Imola, Paul Ricard, Almeria, and Jerez. Despite a delayed start to the test while the team made final preparations, the prototype encountered only minor setbacks. A left-rear blowout towards the end of the first day resulted in some lost track time. However, overall, the team was able to gather valuable data and gain experience with the SC63.
Impressive Lap Time
During the test, Andrea Caldarelli, who exclusively drove on the first day, set an impressive lap time of 1m35.027s. Although it was approximately a second slower than last year’s pole time for the Daytona 24 Hours, this performance showcased the potential of the new prototype. While the car will not be racing at Daytona, it will be flying back to Europe for World Endurance Championship homologation ahead of the opening race in Qatar on March 2.
Reflecting on the test, Iron Lynx boss Andrea Piccini expressed satisfaction with the technical progress made by the team. Piccini praised the work of the Iron Lynx team and the efforts of the factory drivers. He acknowledged that there is still work to be done on the car before its debut but emphasized the overall positive direction of the project. This successful test session served as a stepping stone towards the upcoming season for Iron Lynx.
The test session saw different drivers take turns behind the wheel. Romain Grosjean, Daniil Kvyat, and Mirko Bortolotti joined Andrea Caldarelli on the track. Caldarelli, Grosjean, and Kvyat are expected to race in the prototype during its debut in the US at Sebring. Bortolotti and Caldarelli, on the other hand, will be racing in Iron Lynx’s GTD Pro class Huracan entry at Daytona. The strong driver lineup showcases the team’s commitment to assembling a competitive roster for the upcoming season.
Next Pre-Season Test at Circuit of the Americas
The Iron Lynx team now sets its sights on the final LMDh pre-season test in the US, taking place at Circuit of the Americas in Austin. This upcoming test is of great significance as the team will also race at this track in the World Endurance Championship. The bumpy nature of the circuit presents a valuable opportunity to further develop the prototype’s dampers, which the team has been working on in collaboration with its partner KW.
The recent test session in the United States proved to be a resounding success for Iron Lynx and its new prototype. Topping the GTP timesheets and completing an impressive distance showcased the potential of the car. With the knowledgeable and skilled driver lineup, the team is poised for a strong debut in the IMSA SportsCar Championship Endurance Cup races. As the team continues its pre-season preparations, the upcoming test at Circuit of the Americas presents another opportunity to refine the prototype and solidify its competitive edge.
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