Vehicle electrifcation is moving forward, driven by regula-
tions around the globe requiring greater efciency and
lower emission levels. It has even invaded the realm of
motorsport, where automakers have clamored for a move to
hybrid powertrains as a way of increasing competitiveness
and showing potential customers their technical relevance.
Formula 1 has standardized the engine swept volume, energy
recovery system, energy storage system, and more, and this has
appeal to the manufacturers who play in that sandbox (Ferrari,
Mercedes, Renault and—in 2015—Honda). However, the folks
at the Automobile Club de l'Ouest had a diferent idea for
their big race (Le Mans), and convinced the World Endurance
Championship's regulatory body to take a diferent path.
There are no limits on cylinders or engine size at the 24
Heures du Mans, and competitors can choose to run either
gasoline or diesel engines in their LMP1-H prototypes. Also
free is the type and method of storing retrieved energy.
AD&P; > September 2014 > FEATURE > Racing Toward Electrifcation > Christopher A. Sawyer
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RACING TOWARD
ELECTRIFICATION
AD&P; > September 2014 > FEATURE > Racing Toward Electrifcation > Christopher A. Sawyer