Traction and Launch Control

One of the items that the GTM lacks is traction and launch control. These are items found in top end sports cars around the world. It usually is manifested in a dial or switch that turns functionality on or off, or allows the driver to dial in the level of traction control desired. However, just as there is an aftermarket solution for blind spot assist, there is an aftermarket solution for traction and launch control.

Traction control is a computer assist to designed to keep the car on the road and under control. It accomplishes this by reducing spark, fuel supply, throttle and increasing brakes on one or more wheels.

Launch control is a computer assist designed to eliminate the human factor in launching the car from a standing start. Instead of having to balance clutch and throttle, you only have to worry about letting out the clutch.

As I have mentioned before, there is a wealth of knowledge on the Factory Five Forums. I found this in a post by Spytech. I know he's one of the frozen chosen in Minnesota, and he has had his car running for a good year now. His build log is a treasure trove.

Racelogic traction control module.

Racelogic offers an traction and launch control module, wheel speed sensors and programmable software that can be customized to for a GTM (or any other car).

The digital adjuster sets slip levels in 1% increments from 0 to 25%. Launch control is a standard feature. This available in brushed aluminum (shown) or black.

My GTM will not have ABS. I don't plan to drive her in bad weather. However not all things can be foreseen, and for a car projected to have approximately 575HP, traction control sounds like a very good idea.

The software has input screens for the following:

• Main configuration
• Launch Control setup
• Slip control setup
• Wheel channel assignments and setup
• Rev-limits setup
• Data-logging setup

You need a laptop to hook into the system and get things running. The software is available for download on the Racelogic website. You can get an up to date list of US distributors on the website.

It is a good thing I am going with a paddle shift system, because I really don't have any room for a conventional shift lever. I'll need to be very careful on how I map out my center console.