Ford Racing Reveals Major Updates for 2027 FIA WEC Hypercar Program
Detroit, Michigan – Ford Racing has officially confirmed its engine choice for the upcoming 2027 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) Hypercar program at its 2026 season launch event. The prototype will be powered by a naturally aspirated 5.4-litre V8 engine, sharing its architecture with the Mustang GT3. This engine will be paired with a spec LMDh hybrid system supplied by Bosch.
Dan Sayers, Ford Racing’s Hypercar program manager, emphasized the significance of the V8 engine, stating, “It is more than just a component; it is the identity of the car.” He noted that the decision to utilize the Coyote engine is rooted in Ford’s legacy, linking past triumphs to future ambitions: “This V8 is a bridge between the legends of 1966 and the future of 2027.”
In a noteworthy move, Ford is developing this competition engine entirely in-house, collaborating closely with Red Bull Ford Powertrains to integrate high-voltage technology with its traditional powerplant.
Ford has also announced its initial driver lineup, including Sebastian Priaulx, Mike Rockenfeller, and Logan Sargeant. Priaulx and Rockenfeller transition from the Multimatic-operated GTD Pro effort, while Sargeant joins after a stint in Formula 1. Sayers remarked on the drivers’ diverse backgrounds, stating, “A machine this ambitious requires more than just engineering; it requires a specific kind of driver — one who is as much a scientist as they are a racer.”
Rockenfeller, a former Audi Sport driver, and Priaulx will lead a preparatory LMP2 program in the European Le Mans Series this year, joined by an unnamed third driver in the Proton Competition-backed effort.
Ford’s Hypercar initiative is also set to include technical support from Venture Engineering, allowing its engineers to work directly within Proton’s garages.
As anticipation builds towards its Hypercar debut, Ford Racing plans to reveal further details, including the car’s design and additional drivers.
Sayers concluded, “We have the engine. We have the drivers. We have the vision. We are building more than just a car; we are building a legacy. We are reclaiming our seat at the top table of endurance racing. We are America’s Race Team, and we are coming for the world.”
Key Takeaways:
- Engine: 5.4-litre V8, shared with Mustang GT3, paired with Bosch LMDh hybrid system.
- Driver Lineup: Sebastian Priaulx, Mike Rockenfeller, Logan Sargeant.
- Development Strategy: In-house engine development in collaboration with Red Bull Ford Powertrains.
- Preparatory Program: LMP2 initiative in the European Le Mans Series with Proton Competition.
