For immediate release
13th October 2017
Renowned British race engine manufacturer Engine Developments Ltd. and AIM Co. Ltd. of Japan are delighted to announce a continuation of their long standing collaboration with a program to offer a new LMP1 engine for privateer teams.
Since the introduction of fuel flow limiting regulations in the FIAWEC LMP1 class in 2013 we have tested and developed a number of different engine configurations including naturally aspirated and turbocharged platforms. Performance levels have increased significantly as the regulations have evolved, the result being that what may have been the optimum engine configuration in 2013 is no longer the best package to deliver the performance and reliability required.
At the current performance level of over 700PS and with a minimum car weight of less than 850kg our new normally aspirated 5.5 litre V10 is designed to deliver extremely competitive lap times. The new V10 engine does not have the problems of throttle response, complexity and reliability associated with turbocharged engines or the weight and size issues associated with similar capacity normally aspirated V8 and V12 engines.
The AIM-JUDD V10 engine will incorporate a number of new developments aimed at maximising performance potential under the fuel flow limiting regulations whilst retaining the excellent reliability record that our previous JUDD and AIM V10 engines achieved in endurance racing.
These include a new 72 degree cylinder block which is significantly lighter than any of our previous designs, a new combustion chamber, cooling system and piston design as well as an updated engine management system with electronic throttle and fuel flow management software.
The expected technical regulations in LMP1 will guarantee parity of performance between the various engine types being used through a rigorous FIA homologation procedure. We therefore believe the V10 platform should be the natural choice for any LMP1 team that is serious about having a trouble-free run in the 2018 Le Mans 24hrs race. We are delighted to again take on the Le Mans challenge with our friends and long-standing partners AIM in this new and exciting program.
The new engine will be available to private teams on a lease-only basis for the beginning of the 2018/19 Super Season.