BMW M4 GT3 Snetterton HYMO Hot Lap Analysis
Let’s take a look at this hot lap of Snetterton in the BMW M4 GT3 driven by HYMO.
The Track
Snetterton Circuit, nestled in Norfolk, England, is a prominent fixture in British motorsport. Originally converted from an airfield after World War II, it has evolved significantly over the years. Known for its mix of long straights and a variety of corners, Snetterton challenges drivers with its technical complexity and high-speed sections. The circuit's most recent layout, the 300 configuration, stretches over 3 miles, combining the original airfield's fast stretches with a new infield section, offering a comprehensive test of driving skill and vehicle setup. Hosting events like the British Touring Car Championship and various bike racing series, Snetterton is celebrated for its racing heritage and diverse track characteristics.
To help you out, the HYMO setup used in this hot lap video is available for you to try HERE.
Analysis
The analysis below uses the Track Titan platform to compare a HYMO reference hotlap in blue to one of the Track Titan community drivers through Segment 4. Here we see an example of a V-line from the community driver, clipping the apex twice but going deep in-between. This line allows for the driver to enter faster, turn the car sharper and straiten the exit and get back on the power earlier for a better exit. The compromise here is with minimum speed. You can see from the diff to ref graph that even though they gain on entry and exit, their 0.2s loss mid-corner costs them 0.1s overall because the conventional line keeps the minimum speed up.
You can analyse every other turn in the Track Titan platform; see reference lap here.
You can also take it to the next level and compare it against your own driving, just sign up to Track Titan for FREE today here.
Sim Racing Top Tips
Diagnosing car balance issues in GT3 racing is a critical aspect of optimising performance. One must first discern whether the car exhibits understeer, where the front tyres lose grip, or oversteer, where the rear tyres are the culprits. Paying attention to the car's behaviour during different phases of a corner—entry, mid-corner, and exit—is key. Understeer often manifests in the entry and mid-corner, causing the car to 'push' away from the apex. Oversteer, conversely, can be more prevalent during corner exit, leading to the rear of the car sliding out. Tyre pressures, suspension settings, and aerodynamic balance are pivotal factors. Adjusting these can significantly alter the car's handling characteristics. It's crucial to methodically test adjustments in a controlled environment, like a simulator or during practice sessions, to understand their impact on the car's balance.
Don't know where to improve? Use the HYMO hotlap to find out.
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