The four categories – two for GT and two for prototypes – remain but only the latter two are affected by the new technical regulations due to come in next year.

The Council approved the proposal for a limitation on releasable power for energy recovery systems in LMP1 hybrid cars to cap instantaneous total power (engine + hybrid) at 1,000 hp at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. While Porsche and Audi have not disclosed the total power output of their engines, Toyota and Nissan are known to deliver 1,000 hp.

The LM P1 technical regulations were also amended regarding bodywork, refueling, wheels, rim material, rear view mirrors and drivers’ safety equipment in the cockpit. For LM P2, there were amendments to regulations for rear view visibility and the costs of both engines and new safety equipment.

The World Motor Sport Council has also confirmed an update of the sporting regulations. For LM P2, engine number limitations are not taken into consideration for the Prologue, the official test sessions.

Finally, the 80 km/h speed limit during a red flag period will apply to all drivers on the track.

FIA’s Race True anti-doping educational programme will be rolled out in 2016 for drivers competing in FIA world championships, but has not been included in the sporting regulations.

All these amendments will come into force from 2016 for all World Endurance Championship (WEC) races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Cécile Bonardel/ACO
Translated from French by Clair Pickworth