Ligier JS P217 to Be Unveiled at Spa; Testing Set to Begin Next Week

Image: Onroak Automotive

The first of the new-generation LMP2 cars is set to be unveiled later this month, with Onroak Automotive confirming that it will present the Ligier JS P217 to competitors and the public on Sept. 23, during the European Le Mans Series event at Spa-Francorchamps.

Onroak, which is one of the four approved LMP2 constructors for the new-look prototype class, is expected to be the first company to unveil its 2017 machine.

It’s understood the LMP2 car, fitted with the spec Gibson engine, will turn its first laps in Magny-Cours next week, with both Olivier Pla and Pipo Derani having been tabbed as development drivers.

“After more than a year’s work by all our departments we’re really looking forward to presenting our brand-new Ligier JS P217 in a few days with a certain sense of pride,” Onroak President Jacques Nicolet said.

“Designing a new car isn’t exactly a stroll in the park as there are several question marks and important choices to be made between the first sketches from the design department and the first laps of the track.

“Our experience in the construction of sports prototypes, in particular in the LMP2 category, and the close collaboration that we enjoy with our technical partners and our clients, have helped guide us through the different stages to achieve the best possible result.”

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