[h=2]WEC LMP1 regulation tweaks announced[/h] Friday, 01 September 2017


By Stephen Kilbey / Image by Toyota Racing








The ACO and FIA have announced multiple changes to the LMP1 regulations from 2018 onward.
There will be just one LMP1 class going forward, balancing hybrid and non-hybrid prototypes through equivalence of technologies. It means that the regulations will support very similar lap times for hybrid, non-hybrid privateer and non-hybrid factory entries, though there will be a slight advantage for the hybrid-engined cars due to their lower fuel consumption.


In terms of chassis regulations, there will be no changes made – meaning DPis are not eligible, though LMP2 cars re-designed to fit into the LMP1 rulebook will. This decision will apply for the next two WEC seasons.
In a push to ensure that the LMP1 numbers remain healthy throughout the upcoming seasons, FIA WEC CEO Gerard Neveu told RACER that Toyota will not be able to compete at Le Mans in LMP1 unless it enters the full WEC season in 2018-19 and beyond. RACER also understands that the other chassis suppliers – including Ginetta and Dallara – should be able to enter the LMP1 Manufacturers World Championship, by paying a fee which is currently just under $430,000.
Other regulatory decisions, which are still being finalized, will be announced later, covering areas such as a reduction in the number of private tests and collective tests proposed.
Further down the line, the 2020 LMP1 regulations – which included the introduction of plug-in hybrid technology – will be "substantially altered" from the announcement made during this year's 24 Hours of Le Mans. RACER believes the rules stating that LMP1 Hybrid cars will need to start each stint under full electric with zero emissions, and finish the race at Le Mans, will be scrapped.
"With all these decisions, we are confident of seeing a full and very competitive grid next season," ACO President Pierre Fillion said today. "We are already discussing with several manufacturers and privateer teams who are investigating very seriously entrance from 2018-2019 season in LMP1, taking into consideration that the LMP2 and GTE grids are already strong with a high level of commitment for the future."
More details on the technical regulations will be presented over the coming weeks.