Ligier Reveals Next-Gen LMP3 Car

Photo: Ligier Automotive

Ligier Automotive has taken the wraps off its next-generation LMP3 contender, the JS P320, which has already completed an initial rollout.

Based on the new-for-2020 LMP3 regulations, including an updated Nissan V8 VK56 engine, the French prototype features a number of upgrades from its first-generation JS P3, including 95 percent new bodywork, Ohlins dampers and an adapted cooling system.

It is the first of the new-gen LMP3s to break cover and will be eligible to compete in the European Le Mans Series, Michelin Le Mans Cup and Ultimate Cup next year, alongside other updated LMP3 machinery from Norma, Ginetta and ADESS.

A full rollout of the ACO’s new LMP3 regulations is scheduled for 2021 across other series, including the Asian Le Mans Series and IMSA Prototype Challenge.

“In 2014, when we designed the Ligier JS P3, the LMP3s were not supposed to race on the 24 Hours of Le Mans circuit,” said Ligier Automotive design department manager Nicolas Clemençon.

“For the Ligier JS P320, we took this layout into account and optimized the car’s aerodynamics to make the car efficient on all the circuits.

“Some constructors brought out their LMP3 in 2017, three years after the Ligier JS P3.

“We’ve corrected the few youth weaknesses of the Ligier JS P3 and used all the knowhow accumulated with our sports prototypes in LMP2, the Ligier JS P2 and Ligier JS P217, to create an even more accomplished and competitive racer.”

The car was shaken down at Magny-Cours last week with additional tests scheduled this week to “validate” aero setups, according to the manufacturer.

Deliveries of the car, which will be offered either as a brand-new chassis or an evolution kit to the existing JS P3, will begin in October. 

A brand-new JS P320 is priced at €239,000 ($269,000) with the Evo kit ranging from €54,900 to €89,300 ($62,000-$100,000).

Photo: Ligier Automotive

Photo: Ligier Automotive

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