What changes in 2011? - The Rules

 

What changes in 2011 - Part 1 / 3 - The Rules

Six years after the last major overhaul, the Competition Rules "Le Mans" are changing profoundly (see here).

Side bodywork, and aerodynamics still enjoy great freedom of imagination. Thus, Peugeot (see here) and Audi (see here) are opting for closed cockpit cars Aston Martin (see here) have gone for the open top. These prototypes are the trademarks of their genetic heritage, particularly in the design of the front grille or headlights (see here). However, the shapes of LMP cars remain essentially carved by the wind, and that makes them thin and sleek silhouettes. In summary, apart from the addition of a "shark fin" on the rear cover, new prototypes will retain the general outward appearance of their predecessors.

To meet the escalating speeds recorded in recent years, the engine capacity allowance has been substantially reduced. This transformation is perfectly in tune with the ecological trend called downsizing which aims to reduce the cubic capacity of our cars but maintaining a satisfactory power. The engine can still evolve technology of petrol or "diesel, atmospheric or turbocharged, and even hybrids. All types of KERS can now be proposed and coupled to either the front or rear axle.

The development of the LM P2 category's priority is to reduce costs, also serves ecology. The use of engines from the production cars is a consequence of this approach in favour of private teams.

Finally, the GT1 category is deleted, and the GTE class takes 95% of the previous GT2. To accommodate these road-based sportscars, two classes have been created: GTE Pro and GTE Am (for amateur drivers).

To follow:
What changed in 2011 - Part 2 / 3 - Competitors
What changed in 2012 - Part 3 / 3 - Series

Julien Hergault

Photo: Ingolstadt (Germany), Audi R18 PRESENTATION, 11 December 2010. The shark fin is the most visible sign of the new regulations, but the main revolution is under the rear deck.