ORECA reveals more details about new WEC car
ORECA has released more details about the new 05 LMP2 car that will compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship and the European Le Mans Series.
Photo by: ORECA
The car will be raced by the Thiriet by TDS team in the ELMS and KCMG in the World Endurance Championship.
Both cars have entries for the 83rd Le Mans 24 Hours in June.
KCMG global motorsport manager Ryuji Doi confirmed to Motorsport.com today that his team expects to shake down the new LMP2 in early March ahead of the official tests at Paul Ricard on 23/24 March.
KCMG currently has mechanics embedded at ORECA's HQ working on preparing the new LMP2 car.
ORECA is entering a new era with the 05 after its predecessor the 03 proved an effective and successful LMP2 customer option.
The new-look LMP2, which uses the LMP1 monocoque used by Rebellion Racing throughout 2014, incorporates some zylon anti-intrusion panels which have been integrated in to the chassis.
Another safety feature is a new rear crash structure, both safety features have been homologated via crash testing.
The ORECA 05 will be a slightly narrower LMP2 than its competitors. The car is 1900mm-wide, whereas most of the other LMP2's are 2000mm, which is a design trait that sees the car meet the needs of the 2017 LMP2 regulations.
Some other elements, such as weight and centre of gravity, have required specific research by designer David Floury and his team at ORECA's base in southern France. A new electric power steering system, gearbox casing and refined suspension parts are also brought to the new package.
Aero development key
Aerodynamic modifications have been widely researched by ORECA, with Floury and his team focusing on pitch sensitivity and working on new low-downforce specific bodywork kits.
"The ORECA 05 fits into the line of ORECA's strategy of development as a manufacturer with an operational plan spread over many years" explained Floury.
"Technically, we've made decisions for the future, and not only in terms of safety. Choices regarding the width of the car for instance also illustrate that. Generally speaking, the study consisted in conducting an important work on details.
"We've looked to optimize as many things as possible. In terms of the car's weight for instance we think that our approach is a radical one compare to our rivals.
"We've paid attention to the team's observations and feedback, as we wish to establish solid relationships while strengthening existing bonds. We're embarking on a project that will take us up to 2020, that goes to show how important it is!"
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