Ford Racing Accelerates Development of LMDh Hypercar Ahead of FIA WEC Debut
Motorland Aragon, Spain – Ford Racing’s LMDh Hypercar test program is ramping up significantly as preparations intensify for its inaugural FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) season opener at the 2027 Qatar 1812KM. Following successful track tests at Circuit Paul Ricard, Portimão, and Silverstone, the team’s next endurance test is set for Motorland Aragon next month.
The ORECA-based Hypercar, powered by a 5.4-litre V8 engine, initially hit the track in August and has already showcased its potential across various venues. Notably, the forthcoming tests at Monza will feature a second chassis, expanding the program to twin-car testing, aimed at doubling the learning efficiency.
Dan Sayers, program manager, emphasized the advantages: “The beauty of having two cars at the test is that we can focus one on control systems and one on pure mechanical setup work. We can learn twice as much, twice as quickly.”
The inclusion of a second car facilitates comprehensive testing of both control systems and mechanical setups, crucial for the car’s holistic development. The rapid pace continues with the impending endurance run at Motorland, which will allow continuous testing even overnight—a method previously tested at Portimão.
Sayers noted the importance of these tests: “Motorland will be interesting when we run through the night because that’s going to be a continuous test. I’m sure there will be learnings we can apply for our endurance test in Sebring next year.”
Sebring International Raceway is expected to play a pivotal role in endurance evaluations, with Sayers highlighting the venue’s reputation for durability testing: “We want to go there and test it for durability. That’s relatively late in the test program for obvious reasons, but we believe it’s the best sign-off.”
Ford Racing aims for homologation by year-end to facilitate final testing stages. Ongoing development will refine durability components, including engine specifications and brake systems.
“Our goal is to ensure everything is in the aerodynamic box and we’re ready for the final homologation,” Sayers explained.
Driver Matt Campbell, having sampled the car at both Paul Ricard and Portimão, expressed optimism, particularly regarding the engine’s drivability: “The Paul Ricard test went almost too smooth… Portimão was much more challenging, but we learned a lot.”
The driver lineup for the 2027 season, including Campbell, Tom Blomqvist, and others, is still under review. Decisions will be informed by performance at the upcoming tests.
As Ford Racing continues to build momentum, expect further news on the Hypercar’s official name and performance updates in the weeks ahead.
