FIA starts initial tender process for next-gen LMP2

The FIA, in partnership with the ACO (and subsequently in partnership with IMSA), has issued the first of two tender processes that will shape the future of LMP2 beyond the current ruleset which began in 2017.

The tender covers the powertrain and electronics, and differs from the 2017 regulations in that the entire powertrain will be to a single specification rather than simply the engine.

Under the 2017 regulations, the four chassis manufacturers (ORECA, Dallara, Ligier and Multimatic) were permitted to select their own gearbox supplier, with Gibson Technologies supplying the GK 428 normally aspirated 4.2 liter V8 engine after its successful tender response.

Gibson was initially awarded an extension to its engine supply contract that would have seen the Repton-based manufacturer take the GK428 into a new era of LMP2 until the end of the 2030 season. But the proposed regulation set was, as revealed by RACER, scrapped ahead of the Le Mans 24 Hours last June, along with Gibson’s contract.

Following its extension, the current LMP2 formula is set to continue in the ELMS, Asian Le Mans Series, IMSA and at Le Mans until the end of the 2027 season.

The future powertrain tender makes it clear that a chassis tender will follow without revealing whether that is set to be a single source tender. It also states that the awards for powertrain and chassis supply will not be issued to the same manufacturer(s).

Interested parties are being asked to post their formal bids by 30th April 2025, ahead of the notification of the final decision on 10th June 2025 (the Tuesday of the week of the Le Mans 24 Hours).

The tender specifies powertrain supply from 2028 through to the end of the 2032 season with the technical specification defined as follows: A turbocharged engine weighing no more than 160 kg Dry sump with direct fuel injection preferred The power output should be 420kw (563 bhp), adjustable to 380 kw (509 bhp); Exhaust-fitted sound levels must not exceed 100Db The gearbox must be a six-speed sequential with a mechanical limited-slip differential

Tenders are invited for either or both lease and outright purchase of the powertrain with several cost cap measures imposed.

In the case of a lease, the price of lease of the engine, including the engine control unit, should not exceed €1,500 (excl. VAT) per running hour.

In case of outright purchase, the price will depend on: The service life of the engine must be greater than 14,000 km before servicing. The cost of one engine, including the engine control unit, must not exceed €1,750 (excl. VAT) per running hour all-inclusive (new parts, rebuilds and support) Service life for the transmission must be greater than 14,000 km before servicing

The cost of one transmission should not exceed €550 (excl. VAT) per running hour all-inclusive (new parts, rebuilds and support).