LMP1-L - A Sub-Class in Shadow

Starting in 2014 the LMP1 category was split into two sub classes: LMP1-H and LMP1-L. The LMP1-H class contains the extremely fast hybrid machines we have become familiar with, and the LMP1-L class retained its simple internal combustion to keep costs down. For 2014, 2015, and 2016, there were two solid manufacturers in the class: Rebellion Racing and ByKolles. The former has left for the cheaper LMP2 class this year, where they can purchase a chassis rather than building their own. The class has had a boring past riddled with cars that break down and have unimpressive finishes, but next year that could change.

The new regulations in LMP2 are extremely restrictive. The cars now have to be from one of four chassis manufacturers, and although many manufacturers applied most were denied. Some left the series altogether while some are looking for new life in the LMP1-L class. The main manufacturer looking to make a profit from the class is Ginetta. Formerly a manufacturer of LMP2 chassis for customer teams, they were denied the chance to build a chassis for LMP2 in the new regulations. This has led them to seek success in the LMP1-L class. Ginetta has plans to build six cars for the 2018 season, supplying three two car teams. They have reported that there are enough potential customers for them to sell all six cars.

Russian manufacturer BR Engineering also was left out in the cold by the new LMP2 regulations, and is taking a year off to develop its new LMP1-L car in conjunction with Dallara. This team is likely to run only a single car effort, but it is possible that in the future they may build chassis for customers as well. The car would be run by SMP Racing, bringing up the total number of teams expected for LMP1-L in 2018 up to five if ByKolles doesn’t leave the series.

Although this picture shows Manor’s LMP2 car from last year, Manor Racing is also searching for a new home in LMP1. They have confirmed a deal with Ginetta already to run a team, likely of two cars. Other teams are also in talks with Ginetta and I can see the class only growing in the future. With five teams expected for the 2018 season the LMP1-L class may be better to watch than the LMP1-H class. With Audi’s departure from the series 2017 will be a dry year for Le Mans, but 2018 should be a fun one to watch, as long as the TV coverage doesn’t ignore LMP1-L like they usually do. The new LMP2 regulations have opened a door to LMP1 for many manufacturers, and it should produce some interesting racing for everyone.