Porsche Confirms Twin-Turbo V8 LMDh Engine

Photo: Porsche

Porsche has opted with a twin-turbo V8 engine for its LMDh car that will make its race debut next year.

The German manufacturer confirmed Thursday initial details of the powerplant, although not yet revealing the displacement for the “large capacity” powertrain.

Sportscar365 understands that the engine is likely derived from an existing production unit, with the only V8 in Porsche’s road car lineup being the four-liter twin-turbo offered in both the Panamera and Cayenne.

Per LMDh regulations, the maximum power output is 670 horsepower, including the spec hybrid system, with a maximum revs capped at 10,000 rpm and with the minimum weight of the engine being 180 kg. 

The car completed a first rollout with Fred Makowiecki at its Weissach test track earlier this month.

“We were spoiled for choice with the engine for our LMDh prototype, because the product range offers several promising baseline units,” said Head of Porsche Motorsport Thomas Laudenbach.

“We decided on the V8-biturbo, which we feel offers the best combination of performance characteristics, weight and costs.

“The kick-off to the active test program was an important step for the project.”

Further details of its test program have not been disclosed although it’s understood Porsche has confirmed it has entered the “active test phase” of the car.

“The rollout of the LMDh racing car was also the first track outing for Porsche Penske Motorsport,” said Porsche LMDh project manager Urs Kuratle.

“The squad worked well together right from the start. This shows a high level of professionalism in all areas.

“After all, the operational requirements for the safe running of a hybrid vehicle are very high.

“In the next outings we will focus on going deeper into the required processes and procedures. During these first test days at Weissach, the V8-biturbo impressed us in every respect.

“We’re convinced that we’ve chosen precisely the right unit.”

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