Track-only Maserati Project24 hypercar revealed

A hardcore, track-only version of the 2022 Maserati MC20 – provisionally known as Project24 – has been previewed in initial design renderings.

Based on the road-going MC20, the track-only version – codenamed Project24 – uses a 544kW version of the Maserati road car's 3.0-litre twin-turbo 'Nettuno' V6 (up 81kW), with an F1-inspired pre-chamber combustion system, and a dry-sump oil system.

It sends power to the rear wheels through a six-speed sequential racing gearbox, aided by paddle shifters, a racing clutch, and a self-locking mechanical limited-slip differential.

Clothing the high-performance powertrain is a bespoke body designed by Maserati Centro Stile in Italy, measuring 2020mm wide (up 55mm) and 1220mm tall (1mm lower), with new carbon fibre and "natural fibre" panels.

Highlights include adjustable front and rear aerodynamic aids, LED headlights, Lexan polycarbonate front and side windows, and a rear rain light approved by motorsport's governing body, the FIA.

Under the skin sits an "ultra-light" carbon-fibre monocoque, joined by 18-inch centre-locking forged wheels, slick racing tyres, ventilated Brembo CCMR carbon-ceramic racing brakes, and racing calipers.

The suspension uses double wishbones front and rear, while adjustable dampers and adjustable anti-roll bars feature on each end. There's also a 120-litre fuel tank homologated with the FIA.

The target weight for the Project24 is below 1250kg – a fair bit less than the 1565kg tare weight of the MC20 coupe road car.

Inside, highlights include a full FIA-approved roll cage, fire extinguisher, racing driver's seat (with an optional passenger seat), six-point harnesses, adjustable steering wheel and pedal box, and a carbon-fibre steering wheel (with a built-in display).

Air conditioning and adjustable racing anti-lock brakes and traction control systems are standard – while buyers can option a rear-view camera, telemetry recording system, in-car video camera, "driving performance optimisation display", and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

There's no word on when the final Maserati Project24 will be shown – using its production name – however the Italian brand does say the track car will be "emblem of exclusivity" – so don't expect to haggle your nearest Maserati dealer on the price of one.

Maserati also says it "will offer a unique range of services, including track-specific experiences and state-of-the-art support, exclusively for the owners of Project24."