What are the World Endurance Championship car classes?
The World Endurance Championship offers a unique challenge in the world of motorsport. Whether managing driver fatigue or developing advanced hybrid powertrains, everything about the WEC pushes the envelope of what’s possible. While the format of the competition dictates a level playing field from an engineering perspective, there are several car classes that take to the track – some look space-age and others a little more recognisable.
Read on to discover what the WEC is and go in-depth about the three unique car classes that fight it out on circuits around the world.
What is the WEC?
First organized in 2012, the World Endurance Championship is the most prestigious endurance automotive racing championship. It is sanctioned by the FIA (also the governing body of Formula 1, the pinnacle of motorsport) and the ACO and organizes the world-famous 24 Hours of Le Mans.
The WEC is known for its unique endurance racing format, which requires teams and drivers to balance speed with reliability over long periods. The races feature multiple driver changes and pit stops and require teams to manage fuel and tire usage to maximize their performance. The WEC is also known for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, with the series introducing several new technologies. These include hybrid powertrains and alternative, renewable biofuels, along with other initiatives to reduce environmental impact such as banning tire warming and restricting power output.
In 2023, the championship races will take place over seven destinations at world-famous circuits, most notably the Circuit de la Sarthe – the venue for the 24 Hours of Le Mans. However, the other destinations on the calendar are also notable motorsport destinations, including Spa-Francorchamps, a fast 7km track through the Belgian forest.
Spa features the infamous Eau Rogue-Radillion complex, a breathtaking uphill sequence that tops out onto the Kemmel Straight where incredible high speeds are reached. Another fast track is Monza, which comes with a storied history dating back to 1922, making it the third oldest purpose-built track in the world.
The list doesn’t end there, with the variety of circuits ranging from the challenging bumps of Sebring, the deserts of Bahrain, to the rollercoaster that is the Algarve International Circuit in Portimão.
What cars race in the WEC?
There are three car classes involved in the World Endurance Championship:
- Hypercar - Formerly known as LMP1, this is the top-tier class of prototype race cars that demonstrates the pinnacle of endurance motorsport. Hypercars are commonly produced by large automotive brands.
- LMP2 - Also high-performance prototypes but entered by independent teams. There are several strict regulations applied to this car class.
- LMGTE-Am - More familiar track versions of luxury GT cars from well-known luxury automotive brands, these provide an opportunity for amateur drivers.
Hypercars
Hypercars are considered the top class of the World Endurance Championships. Debuting in 2021, they replaced the outgoing LMP1 class. The 2023 season features 13 Hypercar entries from seven different manufacturers, including world famous brands such as Ferrari, Porsche, Cadillac – and of course Hertz Team JOTA.
The cars racing in the Hypercar class are extremely powerful and aerodynamically focused, emitting 520KW (680hp) of power from a new innovative hybrid system. Hypercars are regulated at a minimum weight of 1030kg and kept in competition with each other through a specially made BoP (Balance of Performance) protocol. BoP is tailored to each car to level out the field and to ensure highly entertaining racing.
WEC hypercars are built to strict regulations that require manufacturers to use advanced technologies to maximize performance and efficiency. One of these key technologies of WEC hypercars is their hybrid powertrains, which combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor and battery system. This allows the cars to generate power more efficiently and sustainably while providing an additional boost of power during acceleration.
WEC hypercars also feature advanced aerodynamics, including large front and rear wings and other aerodynamic aids which help maximize downforce and reduce drag. This combination allows the cars to corner at breakneck speeds whilst maintaining their speed on straights – such as the famous Mulsanne straight at Le Mans. In addition to their advanced powertrains and aerodynamics, WEC hypercars are equipped with advanced suspension and braking systems, which allow them to handle the rigors of thousands of miles of endurance racing.
Hypercars tend to be produced with lightweight components to reduce weight and improve performance, in terms of both speed and endurance. Their high-quality, slick tires are provided by Michelin, ensuring optimal mechanical grip in high-speed corners and further challenging the drivers physically.
Overall, WEC hypercars represent the very peak of endurance racing, combining cutting-edge technology with the highest levels of performance and efficiency. They are a testament to the innovative spirit and engineering prowess of the manufacturers that build them and are sure to provide exciting racing for years to come.
LMP2
LMP2, or Le Mans Prototype 2 cars, are slightly slower than hypercars, but their speed cannot be understated. The LMP2 class is intended to provide a platform for teams and drivers to enter the WEC at a lower cost than the LMP1 class, while still providing a high level of competitive racing. Because of this, LMP2 teams tend to be organized independently of manufacturers or engine suppliers.
LMP2 cars are required to adhere to a series of controlled specifications, not least of which concerns their engine – a 4.2-liter V8 that provides upwards of 600 bhp. The cars are also required to use a spec chassis, which is currently supplied by four manufacturers: Oreca, Ligier, Dallara, and Multimatic.
In addition, these quick moving vehicles must weigh a minimum of 930 kg (2050 lbs) and need to be capable of reaching speeds of over 200 mph. Hertz Team Jota fielded an extremely successful LMP2 car, winning the season opener in Sebring.
In the LMP2 class, each car must have between two and three drivers in the race. The drivers must be classified as either Bronze, Silver, or Gold, according to the FIA’s driver categorization system.
The LMP2 class is highly competitive, with many teams fielding experienced professional drivers alongside their Bronze and Silver entrants. The class is also known for producing some of the closest racing in the WEC, with the top cars often separated by mere seconds after hours of racing.
Overall, the LMP2 class is a great way for teams and drivers to experience the thrill of prototype racing at the highest level, while also providing a more affordable and accessible platform than the LMP1 class.
LMGTE-Am
LMGTE-Am, or Le Mans Grand Touring Endurance cars in the Amateur Category, are manufactured by some of the most prestigious luxury car manufacturers. Think familiar models of Aston Martin, Ferrari, and Porsche. These cars are derived from street models used for everyday road use but adapted into racing cars.
This WEC car class is specifically designed for amateur drivers who want to compete in endurance racing. In the GTE-Am class, each car must have one to two amateur drivers, while the other one or two drivers in the car must be classified as either FIA Bronze or Silver. The GTE Am class is intended to provide a platform for amateur drivers to compete in the WEC at a lower cost than the other classes.
One of the most competitive car classes, GTE-Am frequently has teams fielding experienced professional drivers alongside their amateur drivers. This often provides some of the closest racing in the WEC, with multiple hours of racing unable to separate cars by more than small margins. Overall, the GTE Am class is a great way for amateur drivers to experience the thrill of endurance racing at the highest level, while also providing an elite platform for seasoned professional drivers.
So, there you have it – the World Endurance Championship offers a range of classes to suit all types of motorsport fans, from exotic prototype hypercars to race editions of more recognizable luxury sports cars. With the WEC organizing body always striving to create a truly level playing field, you can be sure of thrilling racing action regardless of the car class.
