Single engine for LMP2 in 2017

The FIA has outlined plans for a single engine in the LMP2 category from 2017. Motorsport.com believes that the engine, which will have to go out to tender, will be announced this autumn. The plans, in the FIA’s eyes at least have the aim of “universalizing” the category.

It is believed to be the first of a series of changes to the category which could also include designated chassis’ suppliers.

The potential plans have initially been met with hostility by existing chassis manufacturers, suppliers and teams alike after they became public after a meeting at Daytona in January. It is not clear at this stage if the single engine is applicable to the TUSC in addition to the FIA WEC, ELMS and Asian Le Mans Series.

Also announced at the WMSC meeting were limitations to LMP1 Hybrid units. The WMSC stated: “In this category, the number of engines will be limited to five per season and to seven for a manufacturer entering its first season in the Championship.”

The number of team personnel authorized for entrants competing in the Manufacturer’s World Endurance Championship has also been limited. This is believed to be from 65 people for a two-car team and 90 for a three-car team.

All categories in the FIA WEC will also have a limited number of test days this year. These are as follows:

For LMP1 competitors only

A maximum of 10 closed private testing car/days are allowed.
A maximum of 20 closed private testing car/days are allowed for any new car manufacturer entering the Manufacturers' World Endurance Championship.
A maximum of 10 open private testing car/days respecting the pre-announcement period of 30 days are allowed.
A maximum of 30 open private testing car/days respecting the pre-announcement period of 90 days are allowed.

For LMP2 competitors only

A maximum of 5 closed private testing car/days are allowed.
A maximum of 10 open private testing car/days respecting the pre-announcement period of 30 days are allowed.