Mercedes AMG GT3 EVO Laguna Seca Hot Lap Analysis

‍

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

The Track

Laguna Seca, officially known as WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, is a renowned motor racing track located in Monterey County, California, USA. Established in 1957, it has become a staple in American motorsport culture, hosting a variety of prestigious racing events across different disciplines, including sports car racing, motorcycle racing, and historically, the American Le Mans Series.

The track is 3.602 kilometres (2.238 miles) long and features 11 turns, known for its challenging and undulating layout. The most famous section of Laguna Seca is the "Corkscrew" at Turns 8 and 8A – a unique and treacherous downhill chicane with a dramatic elevation change and blind apex, providing one of the most challenging and iconic corners in the world of racing.

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 6 at the Corkscrew. The community driver loses almost 0.4s on the exit of this sequence as they head down the steep drop. Comparing the throttle trace, we can see that the reference lap keeps the throttle planted after the first apex and carries full throttle through the second apex. However, the community driver has to lift going down the hill. They also appear to run wide through the right hander, which seems to be a result of loss of control because they are not carrying an excessive amount of speed through here. They should look into making sure they enter the section with a stable car so they can get on the power with confidence and avoid lifting mid corner.

‍

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

Fuel saving in races, particularly in GT3 and endurance racing, is a critical aspect of race strategy. It involves managing fuel consumption to extend the range of the car, reducing the number of pit stops or ensuring the car can complete a race without running out of fuel. Key techniques and considerations include:

1. Lift and Coast: This involves lifting off the throttle earlier than usual before a corner and coasting into the braking zone, reducing fuel usage.
2. Short Shifting: Shifting up to a higher gear earlier than the maximum RPM reduces fuel consumption, as lower revs generally use less fuel.
3. Smooth Driving: Smooth and consistent driving with fewer aggressive accelerations and braking saves fuel.
4. Drafting: Following closely behind another car, or 'slipstreaming', reduces aerodynamic drag and therefore fuel consumption.
5. Engine Mapping: Adjusting the engine map to a more fuel-efficient setting, often provided in modern GT3 cars, can save fuel at the cost of reduced power.
6. Race Strategy: Teams carefully plan fuel usage based on race length, expected safety car periods, and the car's fuel consumption rate.

In sim racing, these techniques are also relevant. Games like Assetto Corsa Competizione simulate fuel consumption realistically, requiring players to incorporate fuel management into their racing strategy. Fuel saving can be the difference between winning and losing, especially in longer races where pit stop strategies play a crucial role.

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.

‍