Le Mans: ORECA unveils new LMP2 car

ORECA has released the first images of its new LMP2 contender, the 03, ahead of its first public appearance next January.

Despite bearing a striking similarity to the firm’s current LMP1 challenger, the new prototype has been designed with the ACO’s 2011 regulations in mind.
 

That means the 03 will be available to customers at 345,000 euros, come with the soon-to-be-standard engine cover shark fin and be compatible with a choice of production based engines.

Team boss Hugues de Chaunac hoped the new car would prove an attractive option to buyers after ORECA’s recent experience of building LMP1 and LMPC machinery.

“ORECA wants to expand its activities as a constructor and we liked the 2011 LM P2 regulations,” he said. “This is why we’re unveiling the ORECA 03 today, which has got Le Mans in its genes!

“It will also take advantage of the know-how we’ve acquired with the ORECA 01, a prototype that’s both quick and reliable, as we’ve proved on several occasions, in particular in the 2010 Le Mans 24 Hours in which it finished fourth overall and in 2009 when it came home fifth.

“Our car will follow the ACO specification but our project is an ambitious one. In fact, it’s more than just a car: what we’re offering is a winning package. We’re both a constructor and a team that also runs cars. We know what the demands are at the highest level thanks to our involvement in LM P1, as well as cost restrictions through Formula Le Mans. ORECA has already showed its know-how in these two areas.”

Customers are expected to start taking delivery of the 03 in the first three months of next year, depending on engine requirements.

Tom Hornsby