Nissan and Gibson Unite for Next-Gen LMP2 Engines
In a significant announcement, Nissan and Gibson confirmed their collaboration for the next generation of spec LMP2 engines, set to debut in 2028. This partnership marks a return to their successful alliance from 2011 to 2016, during which Nissan’s VK45DE engines, developed by Zytek Engineering (now Gibson), earned acclaim in the Le Mans Series and FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC).
The new engine will be a twin-turbo V6, superseding the 2017 GK428 4.2-liter normally aspirated V8. The previous era saw Nissan-powered LMP2 cars dominate, clinching 91 race victories, including five class wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
From 2011 to 2016, Nissan’s engines powered various chassis, enabling a series of impressive accomplishments, including:
- Le Mans Series and ILMC Titles (2011)
- FIA WEC Teams’ World Cups (2013-2016)
- Drivers’ Titles (2012-2016)
- ELMS Titles (2011-2016)
- Asian Le Mans Series LMP2 Am Titles (2018/19 and 2019/20)
The partnership is set to leverage Gibson’s engineering expertise and Nissan’s technological advancements, promising an evolution in performance for the LMP2 class as it heads into its next competitive phase. Key stakeholders have expressed enthusiasm for the long-term potential of this collaboration, aiming to build on a legacy of success that reshaped endurance racing.
