Overview of Recent Developments in the Hypercar and GTP Landscape
Isotta Fraschini
The Isotta Fraschini Tipo 6 LMH officially debuted in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2024 after a preliminary test at Monza in 2023. This project was spearheaded by Claudio Berro, formerly of Ferrari and Maserati, after initial plans were derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Designed and built by Michelotto, the Tipo 6 features a hybrid drivetrain developed by HWA. Despite strong potential and a successful initial presence at Qatar with young drivers, the team struggled in subsequent races, culminating in a withdrawal from the season due to financial difficulties. Plans for a move into the Pro-Am category of the Asian Le Mans Series remain uncertain.
Jaguar
Parent company Tata was previously involved in discussions regarding the Hypercar classification, but currently, no active programs have been established under the Jaguar brand.
Lamborghini
Lamborghini entered the 2024 season with the SC63, powered by a twin-turbo V8 and running a Ligier chassis under the management of Iron Lynx/Prema. Although the team achieved a top-ten finish at Le Mans, developmental issues and management restructuring have led to a scaled-down effort for 2025, focusing solely on IMSA’s Endurance Cup with a single car. Legal disputes over proprietary technology further complicate their situation.
Lexus
Lexus has considered various LMDh projects but has consistently chosen to retain its focus on the GTD platform, opting not to progress with an LMDh entry.
McLaren
Confirmed to enter the FIA WEC in 2027, McLaren plans to develop an LMDh-based vehicle utilizing a Dallara chassis and a turbo V6 engine. United Autosports will serve as the service provider. McLaren aims to attract private investors for a customer-oriented track version alongside their racing initiative.
Michelin
The tire supplier for both IMSA and WEC has announced dry tire options for 2025, including high-renewable content tires for improved warm-up. A new range of tires is anticipated for 2026.
Multimatic
Known for providing chassis for several top-tier racing projects, including the Porsche 963, Multimatic remains a key player in the current racing landscape, delivering high-performance components across multiple platforms.
Technical Insights and Regulations
Both LMDh and LMH regulations continue to evolve, offering manufacturers flexibility in design and performance while requiring adherence to specific hybrid systems. This dual structure allows various OEMs to compete across multiple prestigious endurance racing series.
This report crystallizes the current state of competitive innovation, challenges, and strategic shifts among prominent manufacturers in the hypercar segment as the motorsport community heads into the next season. Further developments in technology and partnerships are expected to shape the future of endurance racing.
