The 458 Challenge has made its debut during the annual dealer meeting in Maranello, a traditional event that brings together the representatives of Ferrari's international sales network.

Based on the 458 Italia, the 458 Challenge will take part in the Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli in the 2011 season and is the fifth model used by Ferrari in its onemake championship.

The Ferrari Challenge was founded in 1993 to allow Ferrari customers to enjoy their cars in a structured, competitive environment, racing against other Ferrari owners.

Coming just a few months after the Frankfurt Motor Show unveiling of the 458 Italia on which it is based, the 458 Challenge features a number of modifications to adapt it for competitive use.

The direct injection 4,497cc V8 has an output of 570hp at 9,000rpm and modifications have been made to the gear ratios and calibration of its dual-clutch F1 gearbox to guarantee higher torque at lower revs.

The 458 Challenge is also equipped with the E-Diff electronic differential, which can vary the distribution of torque based on inputs such as steering angle and lateral acceleration already employed on the road-going version, a first for Ferrari's track-only cars.

The suspension is set-up with solid aluminium bushings, stiffer springs, single-rate dampers, centre-nut 19" racing rims, larger dimension Pirelli slicks and a ride height lowered by 30mm all round.

The vehicle is equipped with Brembo CCM2 brakes, which debuted on the 599XX, and which are integrated with an ABS system that features two configurations - low grip and high performance for dry surfaces.

Another first for a Ferrari Challenge model is the adoption of the F1-Trac traction control system, which constantly monitors levels of grip for maximum high-performance road-holding. Two specific track-biased calibrations - wet and dry - have also been developed for this application.

The ABS, F1-Trac and E-Diff calibration settings can be selected via the adjustment dials on the steering wheel. In high grip conditions the driver can select CT-OFF to de-activate the F1-Trac traction control.

During the intensive development sessions to hone the 458 Challenge for the track, the engineers also managed to improve the car's lap time at Fiorano by two seconds over that of its predecessor, achieving a new record of just 1:16.5.

With the 458 Challenge, Ferrari is offering its sportier clients a car that is extremely responsive, with great performance and superb handling.

The mid-rear V8-engined berlinetta will allow Ferrari Challenge participants to enjoy to the full the exhilarating cut and thrust of the race weekends on the world's leading circuits.