Mercedes AMG GT3 EVO COTA HYMO Hot Lap Analysis

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Let’s take a look at this hot lap of COTA in the Mercedes AMG GT3 EVO driven by HYMO.

The Track

Circuit of the Americas (COTA), located in Austin, Texas, is a relatively new yet iconic racing venue in the world of motorsports. It was inaugurated in 2012, specifically designed to host a wide array of racing formats including the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, MotoGP, and indeed, GT3 racing events. This circuit, renowned for its innovative and challenging design, was conceptualised by promoter Tavo Hellmund and famed track designer Hermann Tilke.

Spanning 5.513 kilometres (3.426 miles), COTA features 20 turns, a blend of high-speed straights and tight, technical sections. A unique feature of this track is its significant elevation change, particularly the steep uphill run into Turn 1, which has become a signature element and a strategic point for overtaking. The circuit's layout is inspired by elements from other famous tracks, offering a comprehensive test of driver skill and vehicle performance.

To help you out, the HYMO setup used in this hot lap video is available for you to try HERE.

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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 the famous Turn 1. The data below highlights the area of time loss for the community driver. Using the diff to ref graph we can see a moment where the community driver initially gets ahead. This moment occurs as they release the brakes too early giving them too much speed going in. As a result they miss the apex and are forced to delay getting back on the throttle. The fact the vehicle speed is not drastically different suggests quite a lot of the time loss comes from the increased distance travelled on the wider line. Overall this line, minimum speed reduction and delay in throttle application adds up to 0.15s.

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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.

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Sim Racing Top Tips

Catching slides in GT3 racing, particularly in Assetto Corsa Competizione (ACC), is about quick and precise reaction to oversteer, where the rear tyres lose grip. Here's a concise guide:

1. Throttle Control: Ease off the throttle slightly if oversteer is caused by too much power. Avoid abrupt throttle changes that can destabilise the car further.
2. Countersteering: Steer smoothly in the direction of the slide. The amount of steering depends on the severity of the slide. Avoid over-correcting to prevent spinning in the opposite direction.
3. Vision: Focus on your intended path rather than where the car is currently sliding. This helps in guiding your corrective inputs.
4. Vehicle Sensitivity: Build sensitivity to the car's behaviour through practice. In ACC, pay attention to the force feedback and visual cues.
5. Car Setup: Adjust your car setup in ACC, focusing on aspects like suspension and tyre pressures, to reduce oversteer tendencies.
6. Prevention: Smooth driving and understanding tyre limits are key to preventing slides. Keep an eye on tyre conditions in the sim.

Remember, in ACC, rely on visual and force feedback cues due to the lack of physical sensations present in real-world driving. Regular practice is essential for mastering this skill.

Don't know where to improve? Use the HYMO hotlap to find out.

To see full lap analysis of your own driving, you can sign up to Track Titan for FREE today here.

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