Oreca 05 Set to Begin Testing Program

Image: ORECA

ORECA’s new closed-top LMP2 challenger is set to begin on-track testing within the next week, the French manufacturer has revealed.

KCMG’s Oreca 05 Nissan is expected to have its first roll-out in the coming days, followed by the Thiriet by TDS Racing entry, which have been the first two customers confirmed for the cost-capped prototype.

While unveiled earlier this month, further details of the car have emerged, including safety, performance and serviceability features.

The Oreca 05 will utilize zylon anti-intrusion panels integrated into the chassis, which has been built to LMP1 standards. Additionally, the car measures up in the same dimensions as a current LMP1 car, including the 1900 mm width, which would make the chassis compatible for the proposed 2017 LMP2 regulations.

“Technically, we’ve made decisions for the future, and not only in terms of safety,” said technical director David Floury. “Choices regarding the width of the car for instance also illustrate that. Generally speaking, the study consisted in conducting an important work on details.

“We’ve looked to optimize as many things as possible. In terms of the car’s weight for instance we think that our approach is a radical one compare to our rivals. We’ve paid attention to the teams observations and feedback, as we wish to establish solid relationships while strengthening existing bonds.

“We’re embarking on a project that will take us up to 2020, that goes to show how important it is.”

In addition to a rear crash box, also optional in the 2015 LMP2 rulebook, the car features electronic power steering and a revised starter motor, an issue that plagued early generation Oreca 03 cars.

While additional customers have yet to be announced, Floury said there’s been considerable interest, including inquiries from the U.S. to run the car in the TUDOR United SportsCar Championship.

“The aim is for the ORECA 05 to maintain that momentum… and to win Le Mans,” Floury said. “We’re on a mission. This is an ambitious program, on all levels, but Le Mans is clearly a priority for us, just like the USA in early 2016.”

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