Zytek and Judd building engines for 2014 LMP1 rules

Zytek and Judd, which have had previous involvement in the P1 category, have revealed that they are working on normally-aspirated V8s for next season.

A 4.5-litre engine that incorporates technology from its Formula Renault 3.5 powerplant is undergoing bench testing at Zytek, while Judd is at a similar stage with a 4.4-litre unit developed out of its previous 3.4-litre P1 V8.

Zytek, which was one of the pioneers of hybrid technology in motorsport, will offer its engine with an energy-recovery system.

The system, developed from the unit supplied to Honda for its GT300 contender in Super GT, will fit into the two or four megajoules-per-lap sub-classes of the new LMP1 rulebook formulated by the FIA and the Automobile Club de l'Ouest at Le Mans.

Zytek boss Bill Gibson said: "The 2014 FIA/ACO regulations present the perfect opportunity to combine technologies developed across the Zytek Group to provide a single source of engine, energy-recovery system and control systems within the constraints of a realistic budget."

John Judd Sr explained that his company, which trades as Engine Developments, was working on its new P1 powerplant "to offer an affordable engine to privateers".

"The intention is to have an engine available so that if there is a privateer out there, we can supply them," he said.

"We are getting decent fuel consumption numbers on the dyno, so we think our engine can give a good account of itself."

Judd said he was talking to a number of potential customers for its engine. One of those is known to be OAK Racing, which has yet to seal an engine deal for its 2014 LMP1.