having left LMP1
in rather awkward circumstances, and Rebellion not competing as privateers
in 2017 either
, the category was arguably in need of a shake up. So the news of Ginetta working on an LMP1 entry for 2018 is probably even more significant news than it would have already been.
The new car follows success with the LMP3 car and G57, plus confirmation of the 2017 LMP1 rules for non-hybrid cars (see the full 73 pages here). Now fixed for five years, the legislation "offers an open forum for design comparative to the more controlled formula of P2" according to Ginetta. As a result Ginetta believes it will create "an extremely competitive car."
New additions to the team aim to make this possible. Adrian Reynard will lead aero development, working with an as-yet-unnamed Head of Aerodynamics "who brings LMP1-H experience". Paolo Catone, designer of the Peugeot 908, will also be involved. Discussions are ongoing with Mecachrome and Xtrac for the engine and gearbox, promising another 200hp above a P2 car.
However, this car will not be a Ginetta factory effort. Instead it will be built for customer teams, the current aim to build 10 chassis for a group of two-car teams. Already Ginetta says that "significant interest" has been expressed from its G57 customers PRT Racing and ARC Bratislava for 2018.
Ginetta Chairman Lawrence Tomlinson has said the performance of the LMP1 is going to be "amazing", with ACO President Pierre Fillon adding: "The valued expertise of Ginetta's partners for this programme is also very promising for the 2018 FIA WEC."
Exciting times ahead then, for both the championship and Ginetta. Testing is expected to begin after Le Mans this year, so expect more information around then. Don't forget 2018 will be a Le Mans Classic year too...
