The 458 Challenge is designed as a track-only race car; to be fielded in the Ferrari Challenge championship. It has thinner body panels, carbon fibre replacement panels and polycarbonate windows to reduce weight. While it has the same engine as the 458 Italia, the reduced weight, race exhaust system and changes to the gear ratios mean this model is a serious track day car.
In 2013, ST was approached by FF Corse (who prepares the majority of UK-based Ferrari 458 Challenge cars). Their clients regularly push the 570 BHP to speeds close to 200 mph and were finding the limits of the standard fit ceramic brakes.
Surface Transforms plc (LON:SCE) are experts in the development and production of carbon-ceramic materials and the UK’s only manufacturer of carbon-ceramic brakes for automotive use.