FORMULA LE MANS
Formula Le Mans is a spec racing formula created by the Automobile Club de
l'Ouest (ACO), organisers of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and sports car
constructor Oreca. The formula is intended as part of a ladder system for young
and upcoming drivers into the world of endurance racing while also serving as a
value engineered entry for drivers and teams into Le Mans Prototypes due to
limitations on manufacturers and suppliers.
Initially launched as an independent racing series known as the Formula Le Mans
Cup in 2009, the formula has since been expanded to allow participation in
three separate series for 2010 including the LMS and ALMS in North America. In order to accommodate endurance races in 2010, Oreca developed an endurance
upgrade for the FLM09 which adds an air restrictor to the engine to increase
reliability as well as slowing the car in comparison to LMP2 category cars.
The Formula Le Mans car is built by French manufacturer Oreca and known as the
FLM09. The chassis is based on Oreca's LC75 LMP2 chassis, while the car's
carbon fiber and kevlar bodywork is a simplified version of the LC75's design.
All FLM09s use a production-based General Motors small block LS3 V8 which
produces approximately 430 horsepower (440 PS). Transmissions are supplied by
Xtrac and feature a six-speed sequential transmission operated by paddle
shifters. Engine management is regulated by Magneti Marelli. All cars run on
Michelin slick tires based on their LMP tires. Reinforced carbon-carbon disc
brakes are supplied by Brembo. ©Wikipedia.
FORMULA LE MANS AT SCALE 124
It became clear that many scale racers would also need a stepping stone to the
new and highly popular OEPS - Open European Prototype Series. The OEPS is a leading endurance competition of both top racers and top builders
working to an essentially open building platform using the latest materials and
technologies.
to be continued.
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