With Le Mans still fresh in our memories and with the chequered flag barely folded, Porsche AG is ready to unveil its next customer racing machine, the Le Mans Prototype 2.
With Le Mans still fresh in our memories and with the chequered flag barely folded, Porsche AG is ready to unveil its next customer racing machine, the Le Mans Prototype 2 (LMP2).
Announced in mid-April, the car’s unveiling follows shortly after the manufacturer contested this year’s 24 hour Le Mans race.
The first functional tests on Porsche’s research and development track at Weissach have been concluded. The LMP2 sportscar is designed and constructed in-house using a carbon-fibre body and a new engine, chassis and powertrain.
The prototype is powered by a new lightweight 90-degree 3,4-litre V8 engine, with air restrictors, which aided by its low centre of gravity, dry-sump lubrication and four-valves per cylinder layout, produces around 360 kW.
The six-speed gearbox with a triple disc carbon fibre clutch forms a structural part of the chassis and is operated by a shift system on the steering wheel. The front and rear double wishbone suspension with adjustable springs, anti-roll bars and four-way shock absorbers is linked to the monocoque chassis is constructed entirely of carbon fibre.
For optimal stopping power, the brake system includes twin master cylinders, adjustable brake balance and internally vented carbon brake discs measuring 380 mm at the front and 355 mm at the rear.
In compliance with the 2006 competition rules, the new LMP2 weighs about 750 kg and Penske Motorsport will field the new prototype in its first full season of competition in 2006. The Penske racing team is expected to début the prototype at the final two races of the season in October as test events ahead of next season’s racing.
