Nissan has just unveiled a brand new three-cylinder, 1,5-litre turbocharged petrol engine that will power its ZEOD RC racecar.
The ZEOD RC is Nissan’s latest Le Mans challenger, and it builds on the Delta Wing project that the company started a few years ago. The 3-cylinder “DIG-T R” powerplant produces an incredible 298 kW and a peak torque of 380 N.m and revs up to 7 500 r/min.
The motor supposedly tips the scales at just 40 kg and according to Nissan offers more power per kg than a Formula One engine. Aside from being very lightweight, the engine is also quite compact as it’s just 400 mm long, 200 mm wide and 500 mm tall. Nissan will be testing the new engine in the dramatic-looking racecar ahead of the 24 Hours of Le Mans on June 14 and 15.
Entries for the prestigious French race are limited. The organising committee have granted Nissan the “Garage 56” entry for 2014. This special dispensation is to encourage the development of new technologies even if the car chosen by the selection committee does not correspond to the current regulations. The vehicle must, however, still meet certain safety and performance criteria.
