New LMP3 Class for Le Mans Series

Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO) has introduced a new category called LMP3 (Le Mans prototype 3), which will run starting 2015. Launched simultaneously in Austria at the Red Bull Ring and in South Korea at Inje Autopia, the LMP3 will take part in next year's European and Asian Le Mans Series that include LMP2 cars.

There are a set of regulations that the LMP3 cars have to adhere to, like they must feature a carbon chassis with a closed cockpit with FIA safety certification. They must also have a longitudinal shark fin. The regulation in terms of the car's width will be carried over from LMP1 / LMP2 and the overall length will be 6 inches shorter than the LMP1 / LMP2 cars. The weight of the car also holds a lot importance and the kerb weight must be between 870 to 900 kg.

Under the hood, the LMP3 car will come equipped with a V8 engine delivering around 420bhp and the engine management system will be provided by Magneti Marelli. These LMP3 cars are expected to be around two seconds faster on most circuits in comparison to LM GTEs. More information about the cars will be revealed in 2015, we will be sure to pass on the information to you. So stay tuned!

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