ORECA working on all-new LMP2 coupe for 2015
French constructor ORECA is working on an all-new LMP2 coupe to replace its existing open-top Le Mans contender for 2015
ORECA boss Hugues de Chaunac has revealed that his organisation is already some way down the line with the new cost-capped P2 and that a decision on whether to give the project the green light will be made next month.
"We believe it will be necessary in the future to have a completely new car in the category," de Chaunac told AUTOSPORT. "It is time to do a new car and that car will be a coupe.
"We will take the final decision on the car in November, and if we go ahead, the target will be to have cars ready for the beginning of the 2015 season."
De Chaunac explained that Paul Ricard-based ORECA had the capacity to start designing a new P2 now because it had decided against doing an evolution of the current 03 chassis, which is allowed under the cost-capped rules.
"After talking with our customers, we have decided that an upgrade is not necessary for next year," he said. "Considering the current economic situation, it will be good for them to get one more year out of their existing cars."
The life of the current LMP2 rules has been extended until the end of 2016, but it appears unlikely that there will be major changes for the following season.
De Chaunac stressed that the new P2 would be distinct from the LMP1 car it is building for the Anglo-Swiss Rebellion Racing squad.
ORECA's plans to produce an IndyCar bodykit are on the back-burner, according to de Chaunac.
"It is on the list, but it is not near the top of the list," he said.
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