LMP1 set for aero regulations shake-up in 2017
The LMP1 category in the World Endurance Championship will be given a refresher after the ACO, in conjunction with the FIA, announced alterations in technical regulations with focus on aerodynamic changes, while the privateer teams are expected to be allowed a DRS system in a bid to close the gap to manufacturer entries.
The new regulations, which are set to be confirmed after the Le Mans weekend, will enable LMP1 hybrid teams to raise its front splitter while the changes to the privateer teams are much more radical in a bid to attract more teams to the competition.
Currently there are just three cars entered into the LMP1 privateer category, two from Rebellion Racing and one from ByKolles Racing, while Strakka Racing is plotting a move up to LMP1 for 2017.
To close the gap to the manufacturer entries and make the LMP1 privateering more exciting the ACO and FIA is putting its backing to an F1-style DRS implementation.
Other small tweaks are also expected to be introduced such as the elimination of number of engines per season in the private category while cars will also be made lighter and wider in a bid to increase lap times.
The governing bodies are yet to confirm regulations for 2018-2021 but at the annual pre-Le Mans press conference it was confirmed the rules would pursue greater safety measurements and continue to focus on fuel emission reductions.
