CADILLAC has unveiled its Mission GTP Hypercar, which the US model says previews its third-generation prototype race automobile that can contest the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and FIA World Endurance Championship.
Cadillac’s participation within the 24 Hours of Le Mans will mark the primary time the model has competed within the occasion since 2002.
“Cadillac shall be competing once more on the world racing stage, and we’re thrilled to return to Le Mans after 20 years,” stated Cadillac’s international vp Roy Harvey.
“By competing in each the 2023 IMSA and WEC championships, Cadillac Racing has the chance to display its functionality, craftsmanship and know-how.”
Developed by Cadillac Design, Cadillac Racing and Dallara, the Mission GTP Hypercar incorporates what the model says are key design traits acquainted to the model’s heritage, together with vertical lighting units and floating blades.
The Mission GTP Hypercar’s dramatic styling additionally previews what’s to return from the model’s manufacturing fashions – the automobile’s purposeful strains, sharp edges and in depth carbon-fibre panelling are understood to be as purposeful as they’re aesthetically pleasing. Nonetheless, Cadillac stated among the supplies on the prototype (basically a present automobile) might change when the race-going model hits the check observe later this month.
“The Mission GTP Hypercar is a novel convergence of type and performance and showcases Cadillac’s future efficiency aesthetics,” stated Cadillac lead exterior artistic designer Chris Mikalauskas.
“We now have a lot extra to return, from the upcoming race automobile to superb manufacturing automobiles,” Mr Mikalaukas added.
Cadillac’s race automobile shall be powered by a “model new” 5.5-litre V8, however that’s about all that’s recognized to date – the model has been tight-lipped on the mannequin’s specs. GoAuto understands the race automobile’s powerplant is prone to be based mostly on the LT6.R engine discovered within the Corvette C8.R and can drive the rear wheels through a hybridised transaxle.
LMDh (Le Mans Daytona h) rules state that automobiles are allowed a most of 470kW to be drawn from the combustion engine with a standardised Bosch-sourced electrical motor offering an additional 50kW. Whole system output is proscribed to 500kW whereas whole (kerb) weight is ready at 1030kg.
Talking to Highway & Observe, GM sports activities automobile racing program supervisor Laura Wontrop-Klauser stated the GTP’s engine was “model new” and the “absolute best package deal”.
“We wished to guarantee that we introduced forth the absolute best resolution from an engine package deal to guarantee that we have been aggressive, and we had the proper pairing with the chassis versus attempting to make one thing that we already had work,” she stated.
“When you could have such a possibility like this and also you have a look at the competitors that’s coming, you need to deliver the perfect package deal attainable.”
In a press release, Ms Wontrop-Klauser stated the GTP could be prepared to participate in “the world’s hardest race”. Observe testing of the race automobile will start this month, forward of its competitors debut on the Rolex 24 at Daytona in January subsequent yr.
“Competing for the general win at Le Mans with an iconic American model like Cadillac is an honour,” she stated.
“All the staff is happy to proceed constructing Cadillac’s racing legacy by competing towards the perfect internationally and on the earth’s hardest race.”
A number of manufacturers will return of their official capacities on the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans, which appears set to mark one thing of a renaissance for the occasion.
Acura, Audi, BMW, Cadillac and Porsche are confirmed for subsequent yr’s race, with Alpine and Lamborghini to comply with in 2024. Peugeot and Ferrari are additionally engaged on entries within the Le Mans Hypercar class.
