AER Reveals Updated LMP1 Engine for 2018

Photo: AER

AER has revealed an updated version of its LMP1 engine, which will power SMP Racing’s pair of BR1 prototypes in the FIA World Endurance Championship next season. 

The 2.4-liter V6 turbo powerplant, now known as the P60B, features “substantial technical upgrades” including updates to the high-pressure fuel system, cylinder head casting, scavenge system/oil tank, ignition system and engine calibration, according to technical director Mark Ellis.

“AER’s LMP1 engine has been in a state of constant development since its inception in 2013,” he said. “But the specific, integrated package of upgrades we’ve been working on since this past January represents a sufficient step forward that it warrants the change in nomenclature.

“The P60B incorporates improvements that make it a step up from the P60 in terms of both performance and reliability that’s required for continued success in endurance racing.”

AER engines powered both Rebellion Racing and ByKolles Racing’s LMP1 non-hybrid cars from 2014-16, with the German squad having moved to NISMO power for its truncated program this year.

Ellis said they have the capacity to support additional customers beyond SMP, which has already completed more than 1,000 miles of testing with the updated package.

“AER have since built several P60Bs in support of track-testing, as well as the 2018-2019 racing super season,” he said.

The company, meanwhile, has planned to increase its presence with a larger technical and organizational context with the introduction of its updated powerplant.

“This has been done in parallel with heavy investment in AER’s facilities in 2017, and in support of AER’s planned and future racing activities,” said Managing Director Mike Lancaster.

“All of our clients are now benefiting from this program and those benefits will only increase with the passage of time.”

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John