Honda Performance Development: ARX-01 news **ARX-01g information released**
01-15-2011, 04:42 PM
#1
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Thread Starter
Honda Performance Development: ARX-01 news **ARX-01g information released**
With an overhaul in prototype regulations, 2011 is all about change for competitors in Le Mans-branded championships. Smaller displacement engines in LMP1, coupled with a move to production power plants and cost-capped rules for LMP2 has forced many constructors to roll out with new or updated machinery.
After enjoying success globally with titles in the American Le Mans Series, European-based Le Mans Series and 24 Hours of Le Mans last year, Wirth Research and Honda Performance Development have stepped up their commitment for 2011. Wirth confirmed Friday that it will provide heavily updated prototypes for both the LMP1 and LMP2 divisions.
Designed to meet the new 2011 LMP2 regulations, the HPD ARX-01d will feature various technical changes and upgrades to accommodate HPD’s new 2.8-liter twin-turbo V6 power plant, which replaces the 3.4-liter V8 unit that took Highcroft Racing and Strakka Racing to championships on both sides of the pond.
But the biggest news comes with the HPD ARX-01e, a new prototype based on the LMP2 contender, but with heavy revisions for it to compete in LMP1. With larger tires, new suspension and a brand-new aero package, the ARX-01e is Wirth’s first prototype to have been designed specifically for Le Mans. It also marks the firm's return to the premier prototype ranks after its one-year run with the radical ARX-02a in 2009.
"We are immensely proud with the success we enjoyed in 2010 on both sides of the Atlantic but a new year brings new rules, new challenges and new opportunities," said technical director Nick Wirth.
"With the HPD ARX-01d we are confident that we have developed a car capable of taking over where its predecessor left off and thus remaining the dominant force in the LMP2 category.
“Adding to this, the introduction of the HPD ARX-01e - the first car we have designed specifically for Le Mans - gives us a realistic chance of scoring an even more impressive outright result at 24 Hours."
While the ARX-01e will be powered by HPD’s proven 3.4-liter V8 power plant, it’s unknown what team will head up its racing program. Strakka confirmed last week that it will continue in LMP2 with the ARX-01d, while RML announced Friday its move to the new-spec LMP2 machine as well.
Reigning ALMS LMP champions Highcroft Racing, who took their ARX-01c to Le Mans last year, have yet to finalize their 2011 plans. Veteran driver David Brabham came to the end of his four-year contract with the Danbury, Conn.-based organization last year and has yet to be renewed for the upcoming season.
While there are certainly some questions to be answered, particularly on the Highcroft front, HPD's commitment might not end with these two revised prototypes. Wirth told German Web site Motorsport-Total.com that he's working on an all-new LMP1 coupe for 2012 and hopes to have HPD's blessing for the new project.
Wirth's LMP1 coupe, which has been 14 months in the making, would be its first all-new car constructed from the ground up since its ARX-02a in 2009.
After enjoying success globally with titles in the American Le Mans Series, European-based Le Mans Series and 24 Hours of Le Mans last year, Wirth Research and Honda Performance Development have stepped up their commitment for 2011. Wirth confirmed Friday that it will provide heavily updated prototypes for both the LMP1 and LMP2 divisions.
Designed to meet the new 2011 LMP2 regulations, the HPD ARX-01d will feature various technical changes and upgrades to accommodate HPD’s new 2.8-liter twin-turbo V6 power plant, which replaces the 3.4-liter V8 unit that took Highcroft Racing and Strakka Racing to championships on both sides of the pond.
But the biggest news comes with the HPD ARX-01e, a new prototype based on the LMP2 contender, but with heavy revisions for it to compete in LMP1. With larger tires, new suspension and a brand-new aero package, the ARX-01e is Wirth’s first prototype to have been designed specifically for Le Mans. It also marks the firm's return to the premier prototype ranks after its one-year run with the radical ARX-02a in 2009.
"We are immensely proud with the success we enjoyed in 2010 on both sides of the Atlantic but a new year brings new rules, new challenges and new opportunities," said technical director Nick Wirth.
"With the HPD ARX-01d we are confident that we have developed a car capable of taking over where its predecessor left off and thus remaining the dominant force in the LMP2 category.
“Adding to this, the introduction of the HPD ARX-01e - the first car we have designed specifically for Le Mans - gives us a realistic chance of scoring an even more impressive outright result at 24 Hours."
While the ARX-01e will be powered by HPD’s proven 3.4-liter V8 power plant, it’s unknown what team will head up its racing program. Strakka confirmed last week that it will continue in LMP2 with the ARX-01d, while RML announced Friday its move to the new-spec LMP2 machine as well.
Reigning ALMS LMP champions Highcroft Racing, who took their ARX-01c to Le Mans last year, have yet to finalize their 2011 plans. Veteran driver David Brabham came to the end of his four-year contract with the Danbury, Conn.-based organization last year and has yet to be renewed for the upcoming season.
While there are certainly some questions to be answered, particularly on the Highcroft front, HPD's commitment might not end with these two revised prototypes. Wirth told German Web site Motorsport-Total.com that he's working on an all-new LMP1 coupe for 2012 and hopes to have HPD's blessing for the new project.
Wirth's LMP1 coupe, which has been 14 months in the making, would be its first all-new car constructed from the ground up since its ARX-02a in 2009.
ARX-01d - Updeated LMP2 car for 2011. Bodywork is very similar to the ARX-01c, but uses the new Honda 2.8L V6 twin turbo. Strakka and RML will race this car in Europe.
ARX-01e - Heavily revised version of the ARX-01c chassis for use in LMP1. Engine is a variant on the Honda 3.4L V8. No team has signed on yet to race the car.
ARX-03? - Wirth is working on an all new LMP1 coupe, hoping that Honda will authorize it for 2012.
Highcroft status TBD
Last edited by F-C; 01-15-2011 at 08:26 PM.
01-15-2011, 08:03 PM
#2
Senior Moderator
Thread Starter
Some more info from Mulsanne Mike:
We caught up with Wirth Research's Nick Wirth and got the low-down on their 2011 plans. Interestingly, at the moment, anticipate seeing (possibly) two Wirth Research developed Honda Performance Development LMPs coming from their stables this year.
Work is underway on both an LMP2 and LMP1 chassis.
The LMP2 will be designated the HPD ARX-01d. This car will utilize the new Honda turbo V6 LMP2 engine announced back in June at Le Mans. Says Wirth, "There will be two teams running that car in Europe and at Le Mans in 2011. The car is a derivative of the 2010 LMP2 HPD ARX-01c with minimal changes to the bodywork from 2010."
The second car is a LMP1 car based upon the LMP2 chassis. "It's designation is the HPD ARX-01e. It has a lot of revisions from the existing LMP2 car, including a new gearbox case, new suspension, as well as a very heavily revised bodywork kit and it looks quite different from the current cars." This car will race a variant of the Honda 3.4 liter V8.
Asked why the ARX-02a wasn't utilized as a basis for the -01e LMP1, "The 02a was designed for a specific engine that is not suitable for the new LMP1 regulations. The R&D work can be done with the ARX-01 chassis, which is substantially cheaper to run than the bespoke 02a."
But Wirth hints at the most interesting part, "Aerodynamically, it actually has some of our Coupe 'DNA' in it and we're very excited by the car's potential, given the performance of the 2010 LMP2 car." Recall that back in 2009 Wirth Research embarked on the development of a 2011 rules car? Well that concept is still alive. "...This car (ARX-01e) is primarily designed for a range of R&D purposes." And indeed the "R&D" aspects of the ARX-01e must mean that it is being used as a mule for the future Wirth Research LMP1 coupe. Though when pressed about specific details (...say tires), Wirth will only say, "I guess you'll have to see what tires we use, or if tire width will be part of the -01e R&D testing..."
The when and where of this car's debut is less certain, but Wirth does indicate, "I believe HPD are talking to come teams who are interested in running it, either in the US or in Europe."
Regarding the 2012 WR LMP1 coupe, "We're targeting a 2012 debut for this car, and it will most likely end up being a project done with HPD."
Work is underway on both an LMP2 and LMP1 chassis.
The LMP2 will be designated the HPD ARX-01d. This car will utilize the new Honda turbo V6 LMP2 engine announced back in June at Le Mans. Says Wirth, "There will be two teams running that car in Europe and at Le Mans in 2011. The car is a derivative of the 2010 LMP2 HPD ARX-01c with minimal changes to the bodywork from 2010."
The second car is a LMP1 car based upon the LMP2 chassis. "It's designation is the HPD ARX-01e. It has a lot of revisions from the existing LMP2 car, including a new gearbox case, new suspension, as well as a very heavily revised bodywork kit and it looks quite different from the current cars." This car will race a variant of the Honda 3.4 liter V8.
Asked why the ARX-02a wasn't utilized as a basis for the -01e LMP1, "The 02a was designed for a specific engine that is not suitable for the new LMP1 regulations. The R&D work can be done with the ARX-01 chassis, which is substantially cheaper to run than the bespoke 02a."
But Wirth hints at the most interesting part, "Aerodynamically, it actually has some of our Coupe 'DNA' in it and we're very excited by the car's potential, given the performance of the 2010 LMP2 car." Recall that back in 2009 Wirth Research embarked on the development of a 2011 rules car? Well that concept is still alive. "...This car (ARX-01e) is primarily designed for a range of R&D purposes." And indeed the "R&D" aspects of the ARX-01e must mean that it is being used as a mule for the future Wirth Research LMP1 coupe. Though when pressed about specific details (...say tires), Wirth will only say, "I guess you'll have to see what tires we use, or if tire width will be part of the -01e R&D testing..."
The when and where of this car's debut is less certain, but Wirth does indicate, "I believe HPD are talking to come teams who are interested in running it, either in the US or in Europe."
Regarding the 2012 WR LMP1 coupe, "We're targeting a 2012 debut for this car, and it will most likely end up being a project done with HPD."
02-10-2011, 03:37 PM
#3
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Thread Starter
Two-time American Le Mans Series champions Highcroft Racing will return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France - the team today receiving an invitation in Paris by the Automobile Club de l'Ouest to compete in the LMP1 class in this year's endurance classic.
Highcroft Racing will take the new Honda Performance Development ARX-01e LMP1 machine to Le Mans - an updated and enhanced version of last year's ALMS title-winning chassis to do battle against factory outfits including Audi, Peugeot and Aston Martin.
The team debuted at Le Mans in 2010 in the LMP2 class with David Brabham, Marino Franchitti and Marco Werner behind the wheel. The Duncan Dayton-owned squad had led the class lead during the race before being delayed with overheating issues.
In addition to the Le Mans assault, the team confirmed its American Le Mans Series return for this year's Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring - doing battle with one of the largest Sebring fields in history.
The Sebring event will double not only as the opening round of the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patron, but also the opening event for the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup - a seven race series which features events in the US, France, Belgium, England, Italy and China.
"The team has been very busy in the off season helping HPD develop its new engine for the LMP2 class, but we are eagerly awaiting the chance to return to LMP1," Dayton said. "The 01e has been designed with the unique aerodynamic requirements of Le Mans in mind and Sebring will be a great opportunity for us to begin the on-track development process.
"We are very proud to have been invited to return to Le Mans. Our entire team got a taste of the event last year and we are all very hungry for more. The diesel cars of Audi and Peugeot will be very fast but the ACO is working hard on ensuring that there is a much better balance between diesel and petrol-powered machines this year."
Dayton and his Danbury, CT-based team will soon confirm its complete 2011 race program - targeting its third consecutive ALMS championship.
"I am very much looking forward to returning to ALMS competition and aiming for our third championship in a row," he said. "We have been working very hard with our existing marketing and technical partners and potential new sponsors.
"David Brabham, Simon Pagenaud and Marino Franchitti combined to form the perfect driver line-up last year and we're looking forward to having them back in the car. We will be announcing the final details of our campaign in the next couple of weeks."
The opening race of the 2011 American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patron - the 59th running of the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring goes green at the historic airfield circuit on March 19.
Highcroft Racing will take the new Honda Performance Development ARX-01e LMP1 machine to Le Mans - an updated and enhanced version of last year's ALMS title-winning chassis to do battle against factory outfits including Audi, Peugeot and Aston Martin.
The team debuted at Le Mans in 2010 in the LMP2 class with David Brabham, Marino Franchitti and Marco Werner behind the wheel. The Duncan Dayton-owned squad had led the class lead during the race before being delayed with overheating issues.
In addition to the Le Mans assault, the team confirmed its American Le Mans Series return for this year's Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring - doing battle with one of the largest Sebring fields in history.
The Sebring event will double not only as the opening round of the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patron, but also the opening event for the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup - a seven race series which features events in the US, France, Belgium, England, Italy and China.
"The team has been very busy in the off season helping HPD develop its new engine for the LMP2 class, but we are eagerly awaiting the chance to return to LMP1," Dayton said. "The 01e has been designed with the unique aerodynamic requirements of Le Mans in mind and Sebring will be a great opportunity for us to begin the on-track development process.
"We are very proud to have been invited to return to Le Mans. Our entire team got a taste of the event last year and we are all very hungry for more. The diesel cars of Audi and Peugeot will be very fast but the ACO is working hard on ensuring that there is a much better balance between diesel and petrol-powered machines this year."
Dayton and his Danbury, CT-based team will soon confirm its complete 2011 race program - targeting its third consecutive ALMS championship.
"I am very much looking forward to returning to ALMS competition and aiming for our third championship in a row," he said. "We have been working very hard with our existing marketing and technical partners and potential new sponsors.
"David Brabham, Simon Pagenaud and Marino Franchitti combined to form the perfect driver line-up last year and we're looking forward to having them back in the car. We will be announcing the final details of our campaign in the next couple of weeks."
The opening race of the 2011 American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patron - the 59th running of the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring goes green at the historic airfield circuit on March 19.
03-10-2011, 06:35 PM
#4
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ARX-01e Revealed
03-10-2011, 06:41 PM
#5
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Thread Starter
PR:
Highcroft Racing has unveiled its new Honda Performance Development ARX-01e LMP1 machine - the new car which the back-to-back American Le Mans Series champions will take into battle at next week’s Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring presented by Fresh from Florida.
HPD’s latest entry into the overall LMP1 class is powered by a development of the 3.4-liter V8 engine which has been the mainstay of its sports car activities since the debut of the Acura program in 2007.
The final driver to do battle alongside David Brabham and Marino Franchitti in the ARX-01e will be revealed tomorrow, but the three Highcroft drivers will have an additional vastly experienced “co-driver” riding beside them - the Michelin Man.
Known internationally as “Bibendum”, the Michelin Man and branding for the new MICHELIN® Pilot® Super Sport tire will appear prominently on the side of the No. 01 machine at Sebring.
The new MICHELIN® Pilot® Super Sport tire (Ultra High Performance street tires) will launch in the U.S. on April 1. These are the highest performing street tires that Michelin has ever offered. The new tires are “born from endurance racing” at places like Sebring and Le Mans.
While the tub and engine of the ARX-01e may have come from last year’s championship-winning LMP2 ARX-01c machine, that is where the similarities end.
The new car features a heavily revised aerodynamic and suspension package design and built by HPD’s partner, Wirth Research.
In LMP1 spec, the engine is fed by a larger air restrictor to combat the additional 50kg required for the LMP1 class (900kg).While the HPD engineers toiled away on the durability testing of the engine at the higher power specification, Wirth Research worked hard to develop the new aero package, which has been designed with an eye to the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Compared to the LMP2 car, the ARX-01e also features wider Michelin tires on both the front (wider by 1.18”) and rear (wider by 2.36”).
“The way the rules have gone this year, it seemed like a natural fit to take the engine that has been so successful in the LMP2 class and use the basis of that for the LMP1 class,” said Steve Eriksen, HPD Vice President.
“With the change in restrictor size and wheel/tire package available, we believed we could have a pretty competitive package, especially considering the ACO’s desire to better balance the performance of the diesel- and petrol-powered cars.
“This package represents a good, solid base to compete in LMP1.”
Since the commencement of the partnership between Honda Performance Development and Highcroft Racing in 2007, the Danbury, CT-based squad has recorded a major series of milestones for HPD - first overall ALMS win, first ALMS LMP1 victory, first LMP1 championship, first team to record back-to-back titles and the highest ALMS point-scoring team in every season of the initial Acura program.
“We are returning to the LMP1 class with an evolution of our original LMP2 car, and doing so with the team that started with us on chassis development in the beginning,” Eriksen said.
“Highcroft from the very beginning has worked hand-in-hand with our HPD engineers and our partners at Wirth Research to develop the ARX chassis and obviously has been very successful.
“There has been a lot work put in by the folks at Wirth Research on this chassis conversion. It is not just a case of bolting on LMP1-sized wheels and installing a bigger restrictor. The work completed by both Wirth and Highcroft in a short space of time has to be applauded, and I believe we should have a package which should be very aerodynamically efficient and should achieve very strong results.”
Highcroft Racing and HPD have been strong partners with Michelin since the commencement of the Acura program in 2007, and the forthcoming opening round of the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón and the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup at Sebring presented an ideal opportunity to showcase the soon-to-be-released MICHELIN® Pilot® Super Sport tire.
Over the past four years, Highcroft Racing has clinched 11 ALMS wins, nine poles, 27 podiums and two championships on Michelin tires.
“Highcroft has been a tremendously successful partner with Michelin over the past four years and the forthcoming Sebring race presented an ideal opportunity to explain how the MICHELIN® Pilot® Super Sport tire (pictured right) was born from endurance racing,” said Silvia Mammone, Michelin & BFGoodrich Motorsports Manager.
“Two of the three most innovative technologies featured in the MICHELIN® Pilot® Super Sport tires are derived directly from endurance racing. Both the Twaron (twore-on) belt and the Bi-compound tread were actually developed in competition at Sebring and Le Mans.
“The impending launch of the MICHELIN® Pilot® Super Sport tire and the timing of the Twelve Hours of Sebring enabled us to take advantage of this opportunity to showcase the product though the American Le Mans Series’ new US television package.
“We’re delighted the Highcroft team will have the Michelin Man along for the ride for the 12 hours - further lessons learned from this Sebring race will make it into the road tires of the future.”
The Highcroft team is now en route to Sebring ready to shake down the machine at the historic airfield circuit. The team’s drivers have already completed several days of “virtual” laps on the Wirth Research simulator in preparation for the race.
“We are extremely proud of what we have achieved with our partners at HPD and Michelin over the past four years,” Highcroft owner, Duncan Dayton said.
“With these kinds of partnerships, HPD and Michelin don’t just provide us with a car and tires to go out and race. They have dedicated engineers who are part of the team on race weekends - these guys have really become part of the family.
“Together, we have been intricately involved in developing the race car to improve performance and reliability. These lessons learned go into the cars and tires of tomorrow.
“I’m tremendously proud of what our team has achieved with HPD, Wirth Research and Michelin with the creation of this car and can’t wait to see how it will perform.”
Highcroft Racing has unveiled its new Honda Performance Development ARX-01e LMP1 machine - the new car which the back-to-back American Le Mans Series champions will take into battle at next week’s Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring presented by Fresh from Florida.
HPD’s latest entry into the overall LMP1 class is powered by a development of the 3.4-liter V8 engine which has been the mainstay of its sports car activities since the debut of the Acura program in 2007.
The final driver to do battle alongside David Brabham and Marino Franchitti in the ARX-01e will be revealed tomorrow, but the three Highcroft drivers will have an additional vastly experienced “co-driver” riding beside them - the Michelin Man.
Known internationally as “Bibendum”, the Michelin Man and branding for the new MICHELIN® Pilot® Super Sport tire will appear prominently on the side of the No. 01 machine at Sebring.
The new MICHELIN® Pilot® Super Sport tire (Ultra High Performance street tires) will launch in the U.S. on April 1. These are the highest performing street tires that Michelin has ever offered. The new tires are “born from endurance racing” at places like Sebring and Le Mans.
While the tub and engine of the ARX-01e may have come from last year’s championship-winning LMP2 ARX-01c machine, that is where the similarities end.
The new car features a heavily revised aerodynamic and suspension package design and built by HPD’s partner, Wirth Research.
In LMP1 spec, the engine is fed by a larger air restrictor to combat the additional 50kg required for the LMP1 class (900kg).While the HPD engineers toiled away on the durability testing of the engine at the higher power specification, Wirth Research worked hard to develop the new aero package, which has been designed with an eye to the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Compared to the LMP2 car, the ARX-01e also features wider Michelin tires on both the front (wider by 1.18”) and rear (wider by 2.36”).
“The way the rules have gone this year, it seemed like a natural fit to take the engine that has been so successful in the LMP2 class and use the basis of that for the LMP1 class,” said Steve Eriksen, HPD Vice President.
“With the change in restrictor size and wheel/tire package available, we believed we could have a pretty competitive package, especially considering the ACO’s desire to better balance the performance of the diesel- and petrol-powered cars.
“This package represents a good, solid base to compete in LMP1.”
Since the commencement of the partnership between Honda Performance Development and Highcroft Racing in 2007, the Danbury, CT-based squad has recorded a major series of milestones for HPD - first overall ALMS win, first ALMS LMP1 victory, first LMP1 championship, first team to record back-to-back titles and the highest ALMS point-scoring team in every season of the initial Acura program.
“We are returning to the LMP1 class with an evolution of our original LMP2 car, and doing so with the team that started with us on chassis development in the beginning,” Eriksen said.
“Highcroft from the very beginning has worked hand-in-hand with our HPD engineers and our partners at Wirth Research to develop the ARX chassis and obviously has been very successful.
“There has been a lot work put in by the folks at Wirth Research on this chassis conversion. It is not just a case of bolting on LMP1-sized wheels and installing a bigger restrictor. The work completed by both Wirth and Highcroft in a short space of time has to be applauded, and I believe we should have a package which should be very aerodynamically efficient and should achieve very strong results.”
Highcroft Racing and HPD have been strong partners with Michelin since the commencement of the Acura program in 2007, and the forthcoming opening round of the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón and the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup at Sebring presented an ideal opportunity to showcase the soon-to-be-released MICHELIN® Pilot® Super Sport tire.
Over the past four years, Highcroft Racing has clinched 11 ALMS wins, nine poles, 27 podiums and two championships on Michelin tires.
“Highcroft has been a tremendously successful partner with Michelin over the past four years and the forthcoming Sebring race presented an ideal opportunity to explain how the MICHELIN® Pilot® Super Sport tire (pictured right) was born from endurance racing,” said Silvia Mammone, Michelin & BFGoodrich Motorsports Manager.
“Two of the three most innovative technologies featured in the MICHELIN® Pilot® Super Sport tires are derived directly from endurance racing. Both the Twaron (twore-on) belt and the Bi-compound tread were actually developed in competition at Sebring and Le Mans.
“The impending launch of the MICHELIN® Pilot® Super Sport tire and the timing of the Twelve Hours of Sebring enabled us to take advantage of this opportunity to showcase the product though the American Le Mans Series’ new US television package.
“We’re delighted the Highcroft team will have the Michelin Man along for the ride for the 12 hours - further lessons learned from this Sebring race will make it into the road tires of the future.”
The Highcroft team is now en route to Sebring ready to shake down the machine at the historic airfield circuit. The team’s drivers have already completed several days of “virtual” laps on the Wirth Research simulator in preparation for the race.
“We are extremely proud of what we have achieved with our partners at HPD and Michelin over the past four years,” Highcroft owner, Duncan Dayton said.
“With these kinds of partnerships, HPD and Michelin don’t just provide us with a car and tires to go out and race. They have dedicated engineers who are part of the team on race weekends - these guys have really become part of the family.
“Together, we have been intricately involved in developing the race car to improve performance and reliability. These lessons learned go into the cars and tires of tomorrow.
“I’m tremendously proud of what our team has achieved with HPD, Wirth Research and Michelin with the creation of this car and can’t wait to see how it will perform.”
03-10-2011, 06:53 PM
#6
Senior Moderator
Thread Starter
ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS
Engine Type: HPD LM-V8
Horsepower: 500 + BHP
Configuration: Naturally aspirated, fuel-injected, aluminum alloy cylinder block V-8
Displacement: 3.4 liters
Valve Train: Dual overhead camshaft, 4 valves per cylinder
Lubrication: Dry sump
Fuel: Unleaded 100 octane E10 gasoline
Engine Management: Continental/Honda ECU
Ignition System: CDI
Traction Control: Yes, only engine power reduction permitted
Clutch: Carbon, pull type
Transmission: 6-speed sequential, driver controlled paddle shift
CAR SPECIFICATIONS
Tires: Michelin slicks; grooved options for rain
Front size: 33/68-18
Rear size: 37/71-18
Brakes: 4-piston carbon
Fuel Capacity: 19.8 U.S. gallons maximum (75 liters)
Weight: 1984 lb (900 kg) minimum without driver or fuel
Length: 182 inches (462 cm)
Height: 40 inches (102 cm)
Width: 78.7 inches (200 cm)
Wheelbase: 108-120 inches (274-304 cm)
Suspension: Pushrod with double wishbones, front and rear anti-roll bars
Engine Type: HPD LM-V8
Horsepower: 500 + BHP
Configuration: Naturally aspirated, fuel-injected, aluminum alloy cylinder block V-8
Displacement: 3.4 liters
Valve Train: Dual overhead camshaft, 4 valves per cylinder
Lubrication: Dry sump
Fuel: Unleaded 100 octane E10 gasoline
Engine Management: Continental/Honda ECU
Ignition System: CDI
Traction Control: Yes, only engine power reduction permitted
Clutch: Carbon, pull type
Transmission: 6-speed sequential, driver controlled paddle shift
CAR SPECIFICATIONS
Tires: Michelin slicks; grooved options for rain
Front size: 33/68-18
Rear size: 37/71-18
Brakes: 4-piston carbon
Fuel Capacity: 19.8 U.S. gallons maximum (75 liters)
Weight: 1984 lb (900 kg) minimum without driver or fuel
Length: 182 inches (462 cm)
Height: 40 inches (102 cm)
Width: 78.7 inches (200 cm)
Wheelbase: 108-120 inches (274-304 cm)
Suspension: Pushrod with double wishbones, front and rear anti-roll bars
03-11-2011, 11:41 AM
#7
Senior Moderator
Thread Starter
French ace Simon Pagenaud has been confirmed as part of Highcroft Racing’s driver line-up for next week’s Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring – reuniting last year’s ALMS championship driver line-up.
Pagenaud will join his regular partners David Brabham and Marino Franchitti aboard the HPD ARX-01e - the new LMP1 machine set to be shaken down at Sebring this weekend.
Pagenaud joined Highcroft for the first time last season and helped the team to three overall victories, a Petit Le Mans LMP2 class win and the overall championship.
“It is fantastic news that we are all back together as a team,” Pagenaud said.
Pagenaud will join his regular partners David Brabham and Marino Franchitti aboard the HPD ARX-01e - the new LMP1 machine set to be shaken down at Sebring this weekend.
Pagenaud joined Highcroft for the first time last season and helped the team to three overall victories, a Petit Le Mans LMP2 class win and the overall championship.
“It is fantastic news that we are all back together as a team,” Pagenaud said.
Trending Topics
03-13-2011, 02:08 PM
#8
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Thread Starter
Shakedown photo from Sebring.
05-16-2011, 03:33 PM
#9
Senior Moderator
Thread Starter
Highcroft Racing announced Monday that it has pulled the plug on its planned attack at this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans, and at the same time, concluding its partnership with Honda Performance Development after five seasons.
The Duncan Dayton-led squad started the 2011 American Le Mans Series season off with a strong second-place finish at the Twelve Hours of Sebring in the HPD ARX-01e’s debut race. However, lack of funding has halted Highcroft’s LMP1 program after just one race.
“Everyone was really looking forward to taking the ARX-01e to Le Mans – we really believed the car could have been extremely competitive,” Dayton said. “Le Mans is one of the greatest races in the world, but it requires significant financial and physical resources to compete at the highest levels. Whatever we do, we want to be able to do it properly and it just isn’t viable at this time without proper backing.”
Highcroft was selected as one of the initial factory Acura teams, debuting the manufacturers’ first-generation LMP2 prototype in 2007. Scoring back-to-back championships, 11 race wins, nine pole positions and 28 podium finishes, the partnership was considered one of the strongest in the sport at the time.
“We have had an amazing relationship with all the associates at Honda, Acura, Honda Performance Development and Wirth Research over the past five years and it is with deep regret that our amazing run has come to an end,” Dayton said.
“We are extremely proud of what we have achieved with our partners. When we were first selected as a factory team, nobody expected we would be able to run with some of the biggest names in racing, that came across from IndyCar racing.
“Not only did we prove that we were competitive, but we became the team the beat. We are equally proud of the great working relationships we built with HPD and Wirth Research developing the cars and turning them into winning machines.”
Questions arose over Highcroft’s future participation in the ALMS after the team missed last month’s Long Beach round. While some had thought its focus was towards Le Mans, the fact was that funding was still trying to be sourced to compete in the twice-around-the-clock classic.
Dayton believes the recent earthquake and tsunami disaster in Japan could have contributed to Honda’s decision not to provide the resources needed for the LMP1 program this year. Highcroft, along with HPD, made its Le Mans debut last year in the LMP2 category.
The team’s late withdrawal now leaves both David Brabham and Marino Franchitti without a ride heading into next month’s 24-hour classic. It does, however, give the Kronos Racing Lola-Aston Martin a place on the grid next month.
“I am deeply disappointed for our team at Highcroft Racing who were really looking forward to the race and for David and Marino who are left without a ride at Le Mans at a very late stage. Our drivers have been truly incredible in recent years and I know they are as disappointed as we are that the ARX-01e will not be at Le Mans.”
With a possible program in this year’s Indianapolis 500 also falling through at the last minute, it’s unclear what Highcroft’s immediate future could be. However, Dayton seems confident of a rebound and is actively pursuing new partnerships with manufacturers.
“For our future, we need to take the next step in the development of our team,” Dayton said. “The team is now in a position to start with a clean slate and work towards our next championship assault with new partners.
“Our organization was established as a platform for manufacturers to showcase their technology on the world stage through motorsport. We still have very big goals and ambitions – including additional victories in the ALMS as well as Le Mans and IndyCar.”
The Duncan Dayton-led squad started the 2011 American Le Mans Series season off with a strong second-place finish at the Twelve Hours of Sebring in the HPD ARX-01e’s debut race. However, lack of funding has halted Highcroft’s LMP1 program after just one race.
“Everyone was really looking forward to taking the ARX-01e to Le Mans – we really believed the car could have been extremely competitive,” Dayton said. “Le Mans is one of the greatest races in the world, but it requires significant financial and physical resources to compete at the highest levels. Whatever we do, we want to be able to do it properly and it just isn’t viable at this time without proper backing.”
Highcroft was selected as one of the initial factory Acura teams, debuting the manufacturers’ first-generation LMP2 prototype in 2007. Scoring back-to-back championships, 11 race wins, nine pole positions and 28 podium finishes, the partnership was considered one of the strongest in the sport at the time.
“We have had an amazing relationship with all the associates at Honda, Acura, Honda Performance Development and Wirth Research over the past five years and it is with deep regret that our amazing run has come to an end,” Dayton said.
“We are extremely proud of what we have achieved with our partners. When we were first selected as a factory team, nobody expected we would be able to run with some of the biggest names in racing, that came across from IndyCar racing.
“Not only did we prove that we were competitive, but we became the team the beat. We are equally proud of the great working relationships we built with HPD and Wirth Research developing the cars and turning them into winning machines.”
Questions arose over Highcroft’s future participation in the ALMS after the team missed last month’s Long Beach round. While some had thought its focus was towards Le Mans, the fact was that funding was still trying to be sourced to compete in the twice-around-the-clock classic.
Dayton believes the recent earthquake and tsunami disaster in Japan could have contributed to Honda’s decision not to provide the resources needed for the LMP1 program this year. Highcroft, along with HPD, made its Le Mans debut last year in the LMP2 category.
The team’s late withdrawal now leaves both David Brabham and Marino Franchitti without a ride heading into next month’s 24-hour classic. It does, however, give the Kronos Racing Lola-Aston Martin a place on the grid next month.
“I am deeply disappointed for our team at Highcroft Racing who were really looking forward to the race and for David and Marino who are left without a ride at Le Mans at a very late stage. Our drivers have been truly incredible in recent years and I know they are as disappointed as we are that the ARX-01e will not be at Le Mans.”
With a possible program in this year’s Indianapolis 500 also falling through at the last minute, it’s unclear what Highcroft’s immediate future could be. However, Dayton seems confident of a rebound and is actively pursuing new partnerships with manufacturers.
“For our future, we need to take the next step in the development of our team,” Dayton said. “The team is now in a position to start with a clean slate and work towards our next championship assault with new partners.
“Our organization was established as a platform for manufacturers to showcase their technology on the world stage through motorsport. We still have very big goals and ambitions – including additional victories in the ALMS as well as Le Mans and IndyCar.”
No Honda Highcroft at Le Mans.
07-27-2011, 03:43 PM
#11
Senior Moderator
Thread Starter
While the 2011 international sports car season is far from over, Level 5 Motorsports is already getting a jump start on next year. The Scott Tucker-owned organization announced today a new alliance with Honda Performance Development that will see the championship-winning team compete with the manufacturers' new LMP2 car, beginning with the Six Hours of Silverstone in September.
Level 5's mid-season switch comes following a successful start to its LMP2 program, with victories at the Twelve Hours of Sebring and Grand Prix of Long Beach. Tucker and co-drivers Christophe Bouchut and Joao Barbosa also achieved podium finishes at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Six Hours of Imola in a separate Honda-powered, Microsoft Office 2010-sponsored prototype.
The team will now utilize the HPD ARX-01g, Honda's bespoke chassis and engine combination, in the remaining Intercontinental Le Mans Cup rounds at Silverstone, Road Atlanta and Zhuhai, China. Additionally, Level 5 plans to field two HPDs in the six-hour American Le Mans Series race at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in September, as well as the 14th annual Petit Le Mans in October.
"We looked through all of the numbers, inside and out, and from our perspective, there's no doubt the Honda package in the new cost-capped configuration will be a front runner in LMP2," said Tucker, a three-time national driving champion. "We've seen gains with the engine all year and the good thing is that there's still room for development. The HPD engine and chassis combination has proven to be the best over the years. We feel very comfortable and confident in making this unprecedented and decisive move in the middle of the season."
Built by Wirth Research, the HPD ARX-01g is an evolution of the highly successful prototype, which has captured 22 class victories worldwide since its debut in 2007, including the 2010 Le Mans 24 Hours. While sharing the same DNA as the ARX-01d, Level 5's new open-top contender will conform to the Automobile Club de l'Ouest's cost-capped rules that were introduced this season. The team has reserved the first two chassis that will be produced.
"We feel that our best opportunity to be prepared for the remaining ILMC races this year, and looking beyond into 2012, and where LMP2 may go was to align with Honda and Wirth Research's synergistic package," said team manager David Stone. "With Honda's history and track record, we believe they'll continue developing its production-based engine, which is what we believe is in the true spirit of the ACO rules."
Level 5 anticipates taking delivery of the first chassis, built at Wirth Research's U.K. facility, just prior to the Silverstone ILMC race. All three drivers, along with the team's engineers, will take advantage of Wirth's cutting-edge vehicle simulator to gain a better understanding of the new car before its planned debut in September. Level 5 plans to also mount an extensive off-season testing and development program ahead of the 2012 season with its new LMP2 cars.
"Obviously this change makes a very bold statement in the middle of the year for a team that was so well invested in one brand to move to another brand," Stone added. "But, by the same token, we're keeping our options open for the future and will see how things develop, both in the way the cars perform, as well as what the different series do with their regulations."
Level 5's mid-season switch comes following a successful start to its LMP2 program, with victories at the Twelve Hours of Sebring and Grand Prix of Long Beach. Tucker and co-drivers Christophe Bouchut and Joao Barbosa also achieved podium finishes at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Six Hours of Imola in a separate Honda-powered, Microsoft Office 2010-sponsored prototype.
The team will now utilize the HPD ARX-01g, Honda's bespoke chassis and engine combination, in the remaining Intercontinental Le Mans Cup rounds at Silverstone, Road Atlanta and Zhuhai, China. Additionally, Level 5 plans to field two HPDs in the six-hour American Le Mans Series race at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in September, as well as the 14th annual Petit Le Mans in October.
"We looked through all of the numbers, inside and out, and from our perspective, there's no doubt the Honda package in the new cost-capped configuration will be a front runner in LMP2," said Tucker, a three-time national driving champion. "We've seen gains with the engine all year and the good thing is that there's still room for development. The HPD engine and chassis combination has proven to be the best over the years. We feel very comfortable and confident in making this unprecedented and decisive move in the middle of the season."
Built by Wirth Research, the HPD ARX-01g is an evolution of the highly successful prototype, which has captured 22 class victories worldwide since its debut in 2007, including the 2010 Le Mans 24 Hours. While sharing the same DNA as the ARX-01d, Level 5's new open-top contender will conform to the Automobile Club de l'Ouest's cost-capped rules that were introduced this season. The team has reserved the first two chassis that will be produced.
"We feel that our best opportunity to be prepared for the remaining ILMC races this year, and looking beyond into 2012, and where LMP2 may go was to align with Honda and Wirth Research's synergistic package," said team manager David Stone. "With Honda's history and track record, we believe they'll continue developing its production-based engine, which is what we believe is in the true spirit of the ACO rules."
Level 5 anticipates taking delivery of the first chassis, built at Wirth Research's U.K. facility, just prior to the Silverstone ILMC race. All three drivers, along with the team's engineers, will take advantage of Wirth's cutting-edge vehicle simulator to gain a better understanding of the new car before its planned debut in September. Level 5 plans to also mount an extensive off-season testing and development program ahead of the 2012 season with its new LMP2 cars.
"Obviously this change makes a very bold statement in the middle of the year for a team that was so well invested in one brand to move to another brand," Stone added. "But, by the same token, we're keeping our options open for the future and will see how things develop, both in the way the cars perform, as well as what the different series do with their regulations."
* Level 5 to switch to ARX-01g. The ARX-01g variant conforms to the ACO's cost capped rules. It's basically a modified 01d. Debut in September.
* Why did they skip a 01f variant?
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