The current regulations replaced LMP1 in 2021 but were split into two technical rulesets – LMh and LMDh..
Manufacturers could build Hypercars to either specification with the fundamental difference being a car built from the ground up (LMh) or a car built around a supplied chassis (LMDh).
That philosophy will remain into the new rules and regulations. Manufacturers can use bespoke components or take supply of a constructors “spine” with common parts.
In any case, all cars will have to be rear-wheel-drive and will do away with the four-wheel-drive LMh cars seen in the FIA World Endurance Championship.
Incumbent WEC competitors Toyota, Peugeot, Ferrari, and Aston Martin built cars to the LMh regulations.
Under the new rules, manufacturers will no longer be allowed development “jokers” to create evolution models – meaning the cars that roll out in 2030 will have to last the five-year cycle.
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The only exception to that development restriction is to address reliability, safety issues, or a significant performance deficit.
The announcement was made on this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans in collaboration with the FIA, WEC promoters, and race organisers ACO.
“The cars will continue to be powered by manufacturer-specific engines, preserving freedom in power unit architecture and displacement – a core feature that encourages innovation and creates a unique and visceral soundscape for fans of the FIA WEC,” the FIA said.
“They will be rear-wheel drive only and will feature a mandatory hybrid system, either bespoke or common. The target power output is expected to increase by approximately 20 kW compared with the current generation of Hypercars.
“The chassis will be built to updated FIA safety standards, while bodywork regulations will define styling zones, enabling manufacturers to incorporate distinctive brand design elements while remaining within a common aerodynamic framework.”
Hypercars will have narrower aerodynamic performance windows that it is hoped will simplify performance balancing. Fundamentally, the visual identity of each manufacturer will be preserved.
Since debuting in 2023, seven manufacturers have entered LMh cars while LMDh has attracted nine brands.
Ford and McLaren will enter the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2027 with LMDh entries.
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