'Full attack mode': Gen3 prototype changes explained

An updated Gen3 Camaro prototype has earned praise from Brodie Kostecki after a shakedown.

The Gen3 Chevrolet ZL1 Supercar prototype was lapped by Kostecki at Queensland Raceway on Thursday.

The Camaro prototype, complete in its new black and gold livery, has undergone a number of changes.

It comes after drivers presented feedback to Supercars following four test days at the Ipswich circuit in January.

Notably, some drivers presented concerns with ergonomic and visibility issues.

Supercars has since tweaked the chassis to ensure greater driver comfort; the firewall has been moved forward, the pedals lowered and the seat reclined.

The Gen3 chassis is slightly lower than current Gen2 cars, although the aim is to have drivers in a similar angle and seating position.

A fully manual sequential gear change mechanism has also been added. All told, Erebus Motorsport driver Kostecki was pleased with the early signs.

Critically, Kostecki said the changes will allow drivers to feel more comfortable to “attack".

"A few of us struggled with ergonomic things with the car last time we were here," Kostecki told Supercars.com.

"It's great that the guys and girls at Supercars have worked pretty hard to make sure we're nice and comfortable when we drive.

"It means we can be full attack mode when we're out there.

"After a few laps, it's a lot better, that's for sure."

Kostecki also praised the stick shift system, which has been mandated for the Gen3 ruleset for its 2023 debut.

The early days of prototype testing were completed with a paddle shift system.

Kostecki, who recently claimed his first career pole in Sydney, was delighted to cut laps in the car with the stick shifter.

"It seems that all the problems have been solved for me so far," he said.

"There's been a few other changes as well; within the engine, the drivability, just having the stick shift in there as well.

"I definitely like that the stick shift is in there; it puts more into the driver's hands.

"A few of us call it the 'Oh, shit' handle when we're going for a pass.

"I'm glad to see that Supercars has listened to the fans."

The Gen3 Camaro and Ford Mustang will make their racing debuts in 2023.

Fans in Tasmania will also be in the running to win hot laps aboard the prototypes at Symmons Plains.

Series champions Marcos Ambrose and Garth Tander will conduct the laps at the Launceston venue.

The 2022 Repco Supercars Championship will resume at the NED Whisky Tasmania SuperSprint. CLICK HERE to purchase your tickets.

Every session of the event will be broadcast live on Foxtel (Fox Sports 506) and streamed on Kayo.

The Seven Network will broadcast highlights on Saturday and Sunday.